Need some advice (when to take DAT)

[tendram]

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Well after a long semester I'm finally getting the free time to study for the DAT, but I am in a bit of a predicament. I would like to get my application in ASAP and I was planning on taking my DAT at the beginning of July however now that I am looking over the material, it seems that I may need a bit more than a month to study. I know I can always take it in August and send it in then but how much better would it be (if at all) to buckle down and take it in July? Thanks for any and all advice 👍

 

[MrPatel91]

What I have gathered from other students and actual dental school deans of admissions, is that you should take the DAT in August at the latest. Why not take it towards the end of July to give yourself a solid 2 months to prepare? You will have to probably buckle down everyday until then, but it's definitely doable. Check out the sample DAT study schedules on this site. Also, I was told to fax a copy of your scores to schools as soon as you get them, even if it's not the "official" document. This way, the schools are at least aware that you have taken the DAT after reviewing your application (which you want to submit as soon as the AADSAS allows you to).

 

[tendram]

Thanks, I appreciate the advice. After looking over what I have to review (I've already been over the material once but it's been roughly a year) I'm going to try and cram it all in before mid July and take it around then. Thanks again.

 

[Mr. Thirsty]

Thanks, I appreciate the advice. After looking over what I have to review (I've already been over the material once but it's been roughly a year) I'm going to try and cram it all in before mid July and take it around then. Thanks again.

Although it is highly recommended to get this done before August, if you don't feel ready by then DON'T take it! It is better to do very well on the DAT than it is to rush it to get it done sooner just to mess up. Study fast and hard but most importantly make sure you are ready (although you will never feel fully ready). Take lots of practice exams, like 10 at least and decide on your readiness by that.
Good luck.

 

[tendram]

I already have a tentative schedule mapped out until the end of June in which I should be able to get everything done by then relatively comfortably. And I plan on getting at least TopScore to get used to the test format. On a side note, has anyone ordered TopScore from the Scholarware website before?

I appreciate the advice guys 👍