Taking DAT this summer?

[siba]

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Hello! I am a 2nd-year pre-dent in college, and will be finishing with ochem, gchem, and bio by the end of this school year. I heard taking DAT right after taking all the relevant classes is a plus, so I want to take DAT this summer in August. The problemt is, I won't be applying untill 09' or 10' cycle (depending on how I do on everything else). I know most of you guys take DAT either in your 3rd year or a little before you apply. However, do you guys think it is too early to take DAT now because I going to apply in two years? Also, is one summer enough for studying everything? Thank you for your comments and advice!! =)

 

[Mila]

One summer is definitely enough time to study for the DAT and it is a very good idea to take the DAT with all the material still fresh in your mind. And I don't think it's such a bad idea taking the DAT two years before you apply, given that you do very well on them. That said, keep in mind that most schools require that you take the DAT within 3 years of applying or 3 years of matriculating (but you should check each individual school because it may be different). So if for some reason you decide to take a year off, it is very possible that you may have to re-take the DAT in order to more recent scores. Good luck with whatever you decide!

 

[siba]

Thanks so much for you advice, Mila! 🙂 Do you mean that 3 years before attending dental schools, or 3 yrs before applying? Have you applied yet? What's your time frame like?

 

[Mila]

Thanks so much for you advice, Mila! 🙂 Do you mean that 3 years before attending dental schools, or 3 yrs before applying? Have you applied yet? What's your time frame like?

To be honest, I'm not completely sure if its before applying or attending, and I'm almost positive it may vary from 3 years depending on the school.
I've applied for this cycle, took the DAT very late (Nov) and I've received ample interviews and one acceptance so far. But I highly advise you to take the DAT early. It would have been nice to have answers from all schools by Dec 1st, and be able to decide then, instead of waiting to go to some some interviews in Feb/March.

 

[siba]

Thanks a lot! Congrats on your acceptance 👍