Easiest Dental Schools to Get Into in 2025: Acceptance Rates & Requirements

Starting a career in dentistry is both a rewarding and competitive endeavor. For prospective students seeking programs with higher acceptance rates while still maintaining strong academic standards, we’ve compiled an updated list of the easiest dental schools to get into in 2025.

Keep in mind: “easiest” doesn’t mean easy—these programs still require a strong application, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.

Understanding Dental School Admissions 

Dental school admissions remain competitive across the U.S., but some institutions offer slightly more accessible pathways. These schools often combine lower acceptance thresholds with excellent education, clinical training, and career opportunities.

Pairing strong academics with real-world experience—such as participating in a pre-dental internship abroad—can give you a significant edge when applying.

#10. Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (Alton, IL)

Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine offers a highly supportive environment with small class sizes, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and affordable tuition. Clinical experience begins early, and many graduates leave with minimal debt.

• Acceptance Rate: 14.22%
• Average GPA: 3.66
• Average DAT Score: 19.9
  
  

#9. University of Alabama School of Dentistry (Birmingham, AL)

At the forefront of dental innovation since 1948, UAB Dental emphasizes research, community service, and hands-on clinical experience. Dual degree opportunities like DMD/PhD and DMD/MBA are also available.

• Acceptance Rate: 13.43%
• Average GPA: 3.75
• Average DAT Score: 19
  
  

#8. University of Minnesota School of Dentistry (Minneapolis, MN)

The University of Minnesota trains the majority of practicing dentists in the state and offers broad clinical experiences across rural and urban settings. Students can also participate in Tribal Outreach externships.

• Acceptance Rate: 24.89%
• Average GPA: 3.67
• Average DAT Score: 20.9
  
  

#7. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Dentistry (New Orleans, LA)

Located in vibrant New Orleans, LSU offers programs in dental hygiene, lab technology, and dentistry. Students must demonstrate manual dexterity through a unique chalk carving assessment during the admissions process.

• Acceptance Rate: 13.56%
• Average GPA: 3.64
• Average DAT Score: 21.5
  
  

#6. University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine (San Juan, PR)

The University of Puerto Rico offers a comprehensive DMD program, preparing students for practice both on the island and the U.S. mainland. Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English is highly recommended.

• Acceptance Rate: 10.96%
• Average GPA: 3.5
• Average DAT Score: 17
  
  

#5. Augusta University Dental College of Georgia (Augusta, GA)

Augusta University’s Dental College offers strong clinical preparation, research opportunities, and dual degrees. Students benefit from networking with 15 active dental student organizations.

• Acceptance Rate: 11.69%
• Average GPA: 3.6
• Average DAT Score: 20
  
  

#4. Ohio State University College of Dentistry (Columbus, OH)

One of the nation’s largest dental schools, OSU emphasizes public health dentistry and offers special programs for first-generation students. Applicants are encouraged to have extensive shadowing experience.

• Acceptance Rate: 12.55%
• Average GPA: 3.65
• Average DAT Score: 21
  
  

#3. University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Dentistry (Kansas City, MO)

Located in Kansas City’s healthcare corridor, UMKC introduces students to clinical practice early. Applicants are encouraged to have significant community service and clinical experience.

• Acceptance Rate: 12.4%
• Average GPA: 3.78
• Average DAT Score: 20.1
  
  

#2. East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine (Greenville, NC)

Founded to address rural dental care shortages, ECU offers extensive clinical rotations throughout North Carolina. However, applicants must be North Carolina residents to apply.

• Acceptance Rate: 15.8%
• Average GPA: 3.5
• Average DAT Score: 20.6
  
  

#1. University of Mississippi School of Dentistry (Oxford, MS)

The University of Mississippi boasts the highest acceptance rate among dental schools listed. Focused on serving underserved communities, it provides specialized residencies including dental oncology.

• Acceptance Rate: 29.4%
• Average GPA: 3.73
• Average DAT Score: 19.3
  
  

Boost Your Application with Pre-Dental Clinical Experience

While these schools may offer slightly more accessible entry points, gaining real-world experience is still critical for standing out. Participating in a pre-dental internship abroad through Go Elective allows you to:

• Work with experienced dentists across diverse clinical settings
• Develop essential patient care and manual dexterity skills
• Strengthen your personal statement and interview responses

Our programs in Kenya and Tanzania offer unparalleled exposure to global health challenges, preparing you for a truly dynamic career in dentistry.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a dental school with a higher acceptance rate can be a strategic decision, but success still requires strong academics, hands-on experience, and a compelling application. By taking proactive steps—including internships and clinical exposure—you can maximize your chances of joining a DMD program and launching a fulfilling career in dentistry.

Explore Go Elective’s Internships Abroad to enrich your dental school application and future professional journey.

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Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: May 16, 2025