Haven't yet taken Orgo 1/2 and trying to prep for DAT?

[kai_predent]

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I'm a rising junior and I haven't yet decided when I'm going to apply to dental school, but I want to start studying for the DAT this summer. However, I've taken Gen Chem 1/2 and some bio courses but no Orgo at all (I'm taking Orgo 1/2 this upcoming school year). Has anyone had experience with this, and how would you suggest going about preparing for the DAT? Should I focus on other areas for the time being? Thank you!

 

[cdp1210]

I don't think that's a very good idea. O chem is a huge chunk of the DAT and trying to learn the coverage with no experience of the material is going to be rough. You should never rush taking the DAT. Only take it when you are fully prepared and have the necessary coursework. That being said, if you are absolutely deadset on taking it this summer I do believe there are free online courses available to solidify the concepts. Chad's videos would be good as well however even that might not be enough without taking at least Ochem I. From my experience his videos are great for refreshing your knowledge of the material and covering the concepts you need to know but he teachers with the assumption that you have taken Ochem I&II. My advice would be to finish up Ochem these next two semesters and take the DAT next May when it is still fresh. You can always start going over the Bio/GenChem now so that next spring you will be as prepared as possible and can crush it.

 

[kai_predent]

Would next May be too late if I plan on entering dental school the year immediately following undergrad (fall 2017)?

 

[FeralisExtremum]

Would next May be too late if I plan on entering dental school the year immediately following undergrad (fall 2017)?

If you're a rising junior and want to enter dental school immediately after undergrad, you will realistically need to have taken the DAT by (ideally before) August of 2016 so that you would have valid DAT scores for next year's application cycle.

 

[hockey553]

Feralis, it is best to apply when applications open. Therefore, I would personally take the DAT before June 2nd, 2015. I am in the same position, a rising junior. However, I have taken Orgo 1 and 2 already. I may take the DAT this August or during the Spring semester of next year.