Dental Should I retake the DAT?

[Question]

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Hi everyone! I am currently on the alternate list for dental school but am getting ready to have to reapply incase a seat does not open up. I met with another school today and they advised me to retake my DAT. I feel stuck and am not sure if I should retake the test. My most recent test was from 2 years ago and I am afraid that I will do worse.

— Experts please respond to this post —

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Welcome to the forums.

You did hear from one program that didn't interview you (?) who suggested retesting. I would consider it, especially if you took it before your SMP.

 

[GoSpursGo]

How does the rest of your app look? Where is your DAT in comparison to the average where you are waitlisted?

While retaking the DAT may be reasonable, I also caution students to take that kind of feedback at face value. It may be true, but it is also the kind of concrete feedback that is irrefutable that is simultaneously: 1) easy to give without giving much thought, and 2) is unlikely to be upsetting for an applicant to hear.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

I posit that you are being asked to retake the DAT to demonstrate that you have the science chops after completing your SMP.