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[Tvirtumas]

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[S_Diamond_DDS]

Opinion: Here’s where your GPA and DAT should be at to get in

Here are just some general guidelines, in my opinion. Of course, there are many more factors that are considered by adcoms than just gpa/dat: Science GPA- 3.5+ (you’re fine) 3.0-3.2 (apply broadly and consider masters or post bacc if not admitted) below 3.0(consider a masters or post bacc)...

forums.studentdoctor.net

 

[TenaciousPreDent]

Also confirm with the schools you've plan to/applied to that they don't have a minimum cutoff for your cGPA and sGPA, since many screen out apps below a 3.0 for both those stats.

 

[S_Diamond_DDS]

I already had seen the post and I do plan to take an SMP. I just wanted specific advice for my situation regarding this cycle. By the end of this month I'll be 8 hours into the SMP which would technically raise my GPA to a 3.0 if it was a post bacc. I dont know if they consider them together or if its a separate thing.

They consider them separate.

 

[TheBookCookout]

Personally, I'd say you should probably pass on applications this time around. Your GPA might get you automatically rejected, and your ECs don't seem like they would be enough to make up for it otherwise. Kill the SMP, get those volunteer hours up, and shadow in more than one dental office. You might consider retaking the DAT if that's an option for you too. A higher score could do a lot to show an improvement since the last cycle. Good luck on everything!

 

[TheBookCookout]

Is there even a nonzero chance of me getting in this year?

Well I'm just a pre-dent, so don't take my word as absolute! I'm just giving advice based off what I might do in your shoes. If you have the time/money to apply, then by all means go for it. Worse case scenario you don't get in (which is what will happen anyways if you don't apply). I'm cautious by nature, so I'd advise to approach this year as if you'll have to reapply (which is not necessarily what will happen). Focus on weak areas of your application, so that if necessary, you'll be a stronger applicant next year. That's where the volunteering/shadowing/SMP comes into play.

 

[TheBookCookout]

Yea I plan to cover my weaknesses. I'd like to get more volunteering done, but I dont know how realistic that will be for now with the virus. So hopefully they plan to give a bit of leeway, but maybe not.

I think they'll be reasonably forgiving with this stuff, but be sure to be able to explain that in an interview as well. Also, there are still ways to volunteer safely right now. That shows dedication, and could be a great talking point in applications/interviews. For instance, "I saw a need in my community during the pandemic and worked to fill that need by_____"