DAT & Application

[seifall5]

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I already submitted my application for the 2010 cycle (GPA verified) and took the DAT on May 26th -- 19AA/19TS/20PAT/18RC (17 Bio, 20 Chem, 20 Ochem, 18 QR)

GPA: 3.4 overall /3.5 sci

I am planning to retake the DAT after August 26th, but I wanted to read up on some opinions on whether my chances of getting in would decrease by doing that. Some schools will review my application and re-review it when the second scores are sent to them, but others will hold my application until they get the most recent score. I am most definitely retaking the DAT, but if anyone knows that doing so will decrease my chances, please feel free to state so.

Thank you!

 

[4thMolar]

Why are you most definitely re-taking the DAT? Did you score bad on one particular section? You have average DAT scores and average GPA, so your chances are not bad. I remember doc toothache had a link that showed that 2nd time DAT takers usually score below what they made the first time. I don't have the link to that thread though, but try searching for it. If I were you, I would probably not worry about a re-take.

 

[seifall5]

Why are you most definitely re-taking the DAT? Did you score bad on one particular section? You have average DAT scores and average GPA, so your chances are not bad. I remember doc toothache had a link that showed that 2nd time DAT takers usually score below what they made the first time. I don't have the link to that thread though, but try searching for it. If I were you, I would probably not worry about a re-take.

I edited my post to include the other scores. I made the minimum 17 for biology, which is why I plan to retake the DAT, but if my chances diminish greatly by doing so, I would rather just finalize my application now.

 

[4thMolar]

Ok, I found the thread by doc toothache. It's from 2007 but I think it still applies. Although a 17 in bio is not that great, I don't think I'd go through the hassle of re-taking for just that section and jeopardize your scores as well. But the decision is up to you...if you think you can make higher, then go for it. Personally, I made higher the second time I re-took it, but I studied for a good 2 months and this was a year after my first time taking it.

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=400209&highlight=DAT+retake

 

[Polarbear85]

Hey your stats look just fine. My GPA was 3.3 sci and 3.4 overall and my DAT was average (MY AA was also 19). I applied to many schools -- got interviews from 6 schools, went to interviews in 3 schools and got into all three. I also applied pretty late in the cycle.
However, I went to a very prestigious university in California and had a lot of research, volunteer, dental shadowing hours. So, if your overall application is strong, then don't worry abt re taking the exam --- just wait, I am sure you'll hear from various schools.
Make sure your PS is very good and complete the secondary apps carefully, you'll be fine.

Good Luck!

 

[seifall5]

Hey your stats look just fine. My GPA was 3.3 sci and 3.4 overall and my DAT was average (MY AA was also 19). I applied to many schools -- got interviews from 6 schools, went to interviews in 3 schools and got into all three. I also applied pretty late in the cycle.
However, I went to a very prestigious university in California and had a lot of research, volunteer, dental shadowing hours. So, if your overall application is strong, then don't worry abt re taking the exam --- just wait, I am sure you'll hear from various schools.
Make sure your PS is very good and complete the secondary apps carefully, you'll be fine.

Good Luck!

Around when did you apply?