Dental School Application

[lana_safi6]

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Hi!! I don't usually come on here for questions but I am stressed. I need to submit my application by December 1st of this year. I plan on taking the DAT on November 15th (I know it is late but I am still applying)-- on the DAT website, it says it takes 2-4 weeks for my score to be sent to the schools I want it sent to. Will this affect the schools with the December 1st deadline? I know that I will know my score immediately after the DAT so I am confused on this whole process. Would I just take the DAT November 15th then enter the score I got into AADSAS then they will get my score whenever? Please let me know!!!

 

[DMDJane2027]

My official scores posted exactly 14 days after I took my test, but I imagine that it varies. You can manually enter your 'unofficial' scores on AADSAS after testing day, but the majority of schools (at least ones I applied to, you'd have to do your own research) won't begin reviewing your application or even consider it "complete" until the official scores come in.
December is awfully late. You never know, but I personally would be prepared for the possibility of having to reapply next year.

 

[Ryxndek]

Personally, if you can, I would try to apply next year. December is pretty late in the cycle and by the time you get your scores verified and sent to schools, they’ll be sending acceptances to fill seats. You’d already be starting at a heavy disadvantage from those who applied 6 months before you because of dental school's rolling admissions.

You might just think “well if I don’t get in I’ll just apply again next cycle, no big deal”. But reapplicants are at a disadvantage compared to those who are applying for the first time. You’re going to have to explain during the next cycle how you’ve improved your application in a span of possibly 3-6 months which, honestly, isn’t a lot of time. If you can, just wait until next June and apply as soon as possible, your chances will be much much higher. Depending on your DAT, if you end up doing exceptionally well (AA 23+) I’d say actually apply this cycle and you might get some interviews. But if you don't get the score you want, you'd have more time to plan a retake, which you have to wait 3 months anyways. And it will save you more money than paying $2000+ in application fees alone depending on your score. But just being honest and realistic while trying to not sugarcoat it.

As for the December deadline I’m almost certain the scores have to be verified by that deadline to be considered but not totally sure. Hope this cycle goes well, good luck!!

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Hi!! I don't usually come on here for questions but I am stressed. I need to submit my application by December 1st of this year. I plan on taking the DAT on November 15th (I know it is late but I am still applying)-- on the DAT website, it says it takes 2-4 weeks for my score to be sent to the schools I want it sent to. Will this affect the schools with the December 1st deadline? I know that I will know my score immediately after the DAT so I am confused on this whole process. Would I just take the DAT November 15th then enter the score I got into AADSAS then they will get my score whenever? Please let me know!!!

I don't understand why you "need to submit". You are way too late in the process unless you have been networking strongly with the schools. But it is better to apply with a very strong DAT score than to possibly play catch up. Dental schools won't close before then. There are a lot of people and resources that can help explain the process for you, but rushing things is a big mistake that wastes time and money.