How Hard Is It to Get Into Dental School in 2025? | Complete Guide

Dreaming of becoming a dentist but wondering how competitive the journey is? You're not alone. Many pre-dental students have similar questions:

• How hard is dental school to get into?
• What GPA and DAT scores are competitive?
• How much does the application process cost?
• What are the biggest mistakes to avoid?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying to dental school in 2025, so you can plan confidently and strengthen your chances of success.

Dental School Acceptance Rates: What You Need to Know

According to the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), about 55% of applicants are accepted into dental school.

Acceptance rates can fluctuate depending on:

• The number of available seats
• The total number of applicants
• The opening of new dental schools (there are now over 68 accredited programs)

In short, while competitive, acceptance rates suggest that more than half of applicants are able to secure a spot—especially those who are well-prepared.

GPA and DAT Score Expectations for Dental School

Pre-dental students often worry most about two numbers: GPA and DAT scores.

• DAT Scores:

• Competitive scores range between 20–22.
• Scores between 18–19 are considered good.
• Scores of 17 or below may limit your options significantly.

Many dental schools publish their average DAT scores online, and reviewing them can help you set realistic targets for your own preparation.

• GPA Requirements:

• A competitive GPA for dental school typically falls between 3.5–3.7.
• As with DAT scores, it’s important to research the averages at the schools you're targeting.

The combination of your GPA and DAT score plays a huge role in shaping your application’s competitiveness.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply to Dental School?

Applying to dental school can be costly, especially if you apply broadly.

• ADEA AADSAS Primary Application: $259 for the first school, $112 for each additional school.
• Secondary Applications: Average around $80 per school.
• Interviews:
• Some schools offer virtual interviews.
• In-person interviews may require travel, accommodation, and additional expenses.

Fee waivers are available through ADEA for eligible students, helping to reduce the financial burden.

Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Dental School Application

Avoiding key mistakes can make a major difference in your success. Here are some of the most common pitfalls:

1. Submitting Your Application Late

Dental schools often operate on rolling admissions. Submit your applications early to maximize your chances of being reviewed and offered an interview.

2. Writing a Weak Personal Statement

Your personal statement should showcase your journey and passion for dentistry. Instead of generic statements, tell a meaningful story that reflects your motivations and experiences.

3. Submitting a Messy ADEA AADSAS Application

Attention to detail matters. A neat, error-free application signals professionalism. Review your application thoroughly before submission.

4. Underpreparing for Interviews

Dental school interviews can make or break your application. Understand the format (traditional, MMI, or group interview) and practice answering common dental school interview questions naturally—not memorized.

5. Applying Only to “Reach” Schools

It's important to apply to a mix of:

• Reach Schools: Highly competitive programs
• Target Schools: Schools where your stats closely match admitted student profiles
• Safety Schools: Programs where your stats exceed averages

Applying broadly increases your odds of success.

Final Thoughts: Is Dental School Hard to Get Into?

Yes—getting into dental school is competitive and requires hard work, high academic standards, and strategic planning. But with preparation, persistence, and the right support, it’s absolutely achievable.

If you’re serious about dentistry, take steps early:

• Strengthen your GPA and DAT scores.
• Build clinical experience through opportunities like pre-dental internships abroad.
• Apply early and broadly.
• Craft a memorable personal statement.
• Prepare thoroughly for interviews.

Every step you take now brings you closer to a rewarding career in dentistry.

At Go Elective, we’re passionate about supporting aspiring healthcare professionals. Our Internship Programs offer hands-on clinical experience in real-world settings across Kenya and Tanzania—helping you strengthen your dental school applications and develop a global healthcare perspective.

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Dental Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: May 16, 2025