Low Gpa/retaking Dat

[Bighdad20]

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Hello everyone,

I was wondering if anyone knows if I have chance getting into dental school with a low gpa. I also took the dat and scored really bad the first time and retaking it in July. Any tips? advise?

I'm also applying to post bacc programs to have a back up plan.

Thank you.

 

[artist2022]

Need specifics as to what your GPAs are (overall and science) and what you scored on your DAT (all sections).

For tips/advice regarding the DAT, refer to this: Compilation - DAT Breakdown Collection! 2017-Present

 

[knewstance]

Any pertinent information that will help us better assess your situation and provide tailored advice.

With the limited information you've provided, all I can say is get better grades and do better on the DAT! - not very helpful, huh...?

 

[Bighdad20]

@artist2022 @knewstance

Overall GPA: 2.89
Science GPA: not sure how to calculate that
DAT:
AA:14
BIO: 16
Gen Chem: 15
org Chem: 13
PAT: 17
Quantitative : 13
Reading: 15
survey of sciences: 15

I'm retaking the DAT in July and pretty confident I will do a lot better.

 

[soonTM]

You would probably need to take a SMP and also kill your DAT (all subjects at least 20+) to have a good chance of acceptance. I would strongly suggest to not apply this cycle.

 

[Bighdad20]

You would probably need to take a SMP and also kill your DAT (all subjects at least 20+) to have a good chance of acceptance. I would strongly suggest to not apply this cycle.

What if I get 21 or over on DAT? Wouldn't that show improvement and make it possible to get accepted?

 

[artist2022]

What if I get 21 or over on DAT? Wouldn't that show improvement and make it possible to get accepted?

Your low overall GPA would likely cause you to be auto-rejected from schools before they would even have a chance to look at your DAT scores. I'd highly recommend doing an SMP and doing well in it (3.7+ GPA). You need to show you can handle a rigorous science curriculum over a decent span of time, not show that you can memorize information so good that you can perform well on one test.

Postbaccs are usually best for people that have a low GPA, but are not near/below a 3.0. In your case, I think it would take far too many units and time to get your GPA to a decent spot (like ~3.3+), so your time would be better spent with an SMP.

Also you can calculate your science GPA by using the info here: Calculating Your ADEA AADSAS GPAs. Keep in mind that AADSAS does not replace grades, so if you retake courses, both grades will count toward your GPAs.

 

[the_molar_bear]

There is 0 chance of you getting in with that gpa. I’d agree to look into SMP programs.

 

[knewstance]

SMP is a great idea, not just a regular post-bacc. Do something that actually will earn a degree.

In terms of retaking the DAT, I would recommend not taking it until you complete your SMP. The knowledge you will gain by studying hard during your SMP and improved study habits will help you to improve your DAT.

I would also not recommend applying this cycle. Complete your SMP, improve your DAT, and then submit your application.