some great ways to explain a low score are having to work/take classes while studying for the exam, personal responsibilities that could have impacted you, etc. Same goes for in an interview; similar approach to 'what is your biggest weakness' question, dance around the negatives. If a school gives you an interview they already justified the low DAT score and just want to hear you explain yourself. Avoid language like I didn't study hard enough, I was distracted, surprised at the difficulty etc which all show lack of preparation/motivation.