Advice Needed: DAT Retake July 5th - Apply in June with 1st Score or Wait for 2nd?

[JOEYSUN]

Hi everyone,

I'm hoping to get some advice on my application strategy for this upcoming cycle.
I took my first DAT in March and received the following scores:
AA:510
TS:530 (OC: 480, GC: 600, Bio: 510)
RC:420
QR:540
PAT:390
As you can see, my PAT score is significantly lower than I'd like. Because of this, I've decided to retake the DAT and have scheduled my second attempt for July 5th.

My main question is about application timing. I know the first day to submit is June 5 for this AADSAS application cycle, and I anticipate having all my other application materials (transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, etc.) ready to go around that time.

Should I:
1. Submit my application as early as possible (likely in June) using my first DAT scores, indicating that a retake is scheduled for July 5th?
2. Or, should I wait to submit my application until after the official scores for the second attempt are released (which might be later in July or August)?

I'm trying to balance the benefit of applying early with the potential disadvantage of having my application initially reviewed with the low PAT score from my first attempt. On the other hand, waiting means submitting later in the cycle.


Thanks in advance for your help!

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Welcome to the forums.

You are allowed to signal that you have a future/pending DAT score when you submit your application. I would not submit on day 1 unless you have quadruple-reviewed everything (with other people) that you haven't made stupid spelling or numerical mistakes that could have been easily corrected. Detail matters a LOT for dental applicants.

Transcript verification is the longest step. It's okay to submit in June.

How to Manage Transcripts for Your Application - SDN

The Student Doctor Network provides free tools, resources, and advising services to help students become health professionals.

www.studentdoctor.net