apply now? or wait

[tayyyayystudyallday]

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I am currently an upcoming Senior. I am mid-way through my application and studying for the DAT (still have yet to pick a date). I am meeting with my advisor within the week, but wanted everyones opinion on a gap year? I just don't want to fall behind, I am so close to finishing the application process but don't know if it looks bad to try and not get in, rather just apply next year.

 

[rdub]

Do you want to take a gap year? If not then just apply now! Even if you don't get your application in for a couple months, if you want to start next year then go for it. It does not look bad if you don't get in and have to try again (it's more an issue of all the money spent applying and interviewing).

 

[FeralisExtremum]

Do you have a rough idea of when you plan on taking the DAT? Past a certain point it might be too late to realistically have a shot.

 

[RuffDay]

Finish your application and take your DAT. You can decide if you want to apply after you are done.

A gap year isn't too bad, I took two years off. I learned a lot from the two years. On the other hand, dental school is getting more competitive so I would suggest to apply regardless.


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[hopefuldentist123]

I took my DAT at the end of September, applied in late October after I last minute decision that I didn't want to take a gap year. I got into my top choice fortunately. It was really reassuring (and still is) to have an acceptance lined up, especially during second semester and come graduation time. I suggest you think about if you see yourself happier going straight through or taking a gap year. Or maybe you want to just apply to your top choice and see if you get in. There is no right way to do this, but I personally feel applying late is worth it if you want to go straight through, and better than not giving yourself a chance at all!

 

[sbdento]

A year or two(or even more) between undergrad will provide you time to grow and mature as a person. This will make you a better future provider. I've seen that the guys who are a couple years out from undergrad are more focused and tend do do better in dental school. You can also use that time to travel or do a fun project. Bottom line is, everybody has his or her preference. In the long run, will 1 year or even 2 or 3+ between undergrad and dental school matter?