Testing out

[War Eagle]

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So I know that at some dental schools you can test out of classes that you have taken as an undergrad such as biochem or histology. Is it a good idea to do so if you have the chance? What grade do they give you for doing that, is it just a P? Also, I have no idea what subjects are on the boards. Would testing out of such subjects put you at a disadvantage on your boards? I know that testing out of a class would be great in the short term because it would drop the credit load, but I'm concerned about the long term consequences of doing so.

 

[ummjoey]

i didnt even know this was possible........

 

[blankguy]

I have no idea that is possible. I would assume if somebody took classes with dental students as part of a masters program that schools would still require that you take them. BU has a masters with oral health or biology focus for those pursuing dentistry.

 

[War Eagle]

I was talking with my biochem professor, and he mentioned to me that he has had many students go to various med and dental schools and clep out of biochem. The only dental school he specifically mentioned was Ohio State. Do most schools not have this option, and would it be a good idea to take advantage of it if it is available?

 

[gnarkill]

Shoot. I'm gonna buy the dental decks and try to test out of D1 altogether...

 

[blankguy]

I was talking with my biochem professor, and he mentioned to me that he has had many students go to various med and dental schools and clep out of biochem. The only dental school he specifically mentioned was Ohio State. Do most schools not have this option, and would it be a good idea to take advantage of it if it is available?

My understanding is that Biochem in undergrad is very different from Biochem in dental school. It is very unlikely the schools will allow you out of taking Biochem. In fact more schools seem to be pushing that you take biochem as a prereq. If you insist call the various schools up and find out yourself.

 

[Danny289]

I know San Antonio has that option. before Starting your D1 class you can take a biochemistry test. if you pass that test (I don't know whats the pass score!) then you will skip your Biochemistry class.

 

[blankguy]

I know San Antonio has that option. before Starting your D1 class you can take a biochemistry test. if you pass that test (I don't know whats the pass score!) then you will skip your Biochemistry class.

Even if they allowed that it still would not be advisable since Biochem in dental school is taught as preparation for the boards.

 

[PR Buick]

Even if they allowed that it still would not be advisable since Biochem in dental school is taught as preparation for the boards.

This is an option at SA. Both D4s we talked to during interviews said they wished that they had taken the option (or, at least, tried). Both felt that they would've needed to study pretty much the same amount prior to the board exam, with or without the class. They also said that they weren't aware of any people who tested out having problems later with the board exam.

 

[Regmata]

Some classes are designed so that you can test out...although the test will be weighed against you. Since all of the classes are directly related to the boards, it probably isn't the best idea. If you know enough to test out, you will do well. Take the class, get your A and the knowledge you will need anyways.

 

[War Eagle]

...the test will be weighed against you...

So how do they calculate the GPA with the test? Is it a simple pass/fail where passing counts as a C on your transcript, or do they give you the grade you score on the test?