low DAT, plan to retake

[gem779]

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I just took the DAT a few days ago and did poorly. 16 academic average. I know I can definitely do better and plan on getting at least a decent score when I retake it early January. The thing is it will be late by then and I don't want schools to reject me seeing this score. My GPA is fairly low as well and that's why I know I need a pretty decent DAT. What I do have is plenty of volunteering and experience around the dental field. What should I do? I would like to inform the schools that I plan on retaking the DAT in early January. should I do that and how would I go ahead and do that?

thanks.

 

[DiNoZeRo2o9]

To be as honest as possible, I would wait until next cycle to apply. Low GPA and low DAT in addition to late DAT is a recipe for a denial. Beef up your scores, take some night classes at your community college to boost your GPA, and keep volunteering.

 

[Lopyswine]

telling them you will retake certainly can't hurt you....

however listen to the poster above, it would probably be best to put together "the whole package" and then apply next cycle.

 

[tinman831]

It doesn't hurt to go ahead and apply with what you have now. See if you can possibly eke out an acceptance somehow with the scores you have. All you'd lose out on is a bit of money. However, if money is an issue, it might be better to listen to the advice given above and wait until you're truly ready to apply.

 

[Rubber Dam Man]

If I were in your situation, I would contact my state school and let them know that I will be retaking my DATs in January (as you said)... I would only apply to my state school and maybe 2 others who I know start interviews fairly late. IMO, your chances with low gpa and low dat with a late DAT retake definitely lower your odds of getting in this cycle.... so I would focus hard on studying for the retake, take a class or two, gain some dental experience, and come out strong next cycle.

 

[gem779]

I've already applied. Schools are just waiting for my DAT scores. I guess I have to go ahead and send them in but I don't know if I want to tell them that I'm retaking the DAT in January because they then would probably put me on hold. If thats the case though I wouldn't get any rejections (or few) but would have a lower chance of getting in due to applying late. If I don't say anything i should get many rejections before they see my January DAT scores.

any other opinions?

 

[Erhatstil]

not to stray from the op but i wonder if a school will accept a DAT retake after their application deadline (assuming your app is in and you've notified the school that a retake will be done). i haven't seen this asked before...anyone know?