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What do I need to do to get in?
- Thread starter klownzo
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At my post-bacc program, I knew several older applicants who contacted schools about their pre-reqs expiring-for the most part, the schools were understanding and accepted them even after the 5 year mark. I think you should do as you planned and contact all schools you're interested in about the expiration of your pre-reqs. A strong DAT score an offset a weaker GPA to an extent; however, it really depends how competitive the schools you apply to are. As previously stated, you should contact the schools you plan to apply to and ask for their advice on the matter.
Personally, I think retaking all your pre-reqs is a bit over the top (unless you had C-'s or lower in them). Some schools also require additional classes such as biochem and anatomy-so make sure you research the specific course requirements for the schools you plan to apply to. Between retaking all your pre-reqs and taking upper-division science courses, I think most schools would prefer seeing the latter. '
All in all, it's very possible for you to get into a dental school, especially if you crush that DAT. Just make sure your DAT score doesn't expire the cycle you decide to apply. Whether you'll get into a specific school or not is never certain. All you can do is make yourself the most competitive applicant you can be to that end.
Personally, I think retaking all your pre-reqs is a bit over the top (unless you had C-'s or lower in them). Some schools also require additional classes such as biochem and anatomy-so make sure you research the specific course requirements for the schools you plan to apply to. Between retaking all your pre-reqs and taking upper-division science courses, I think most schools would prefer seeing the latter. '
All in all, it's very possible for you to get into a dental school, especially if you crush that DAT. Just make sure your DAT score doesn't expire the cycle you decide to apply. Whether you'll get into a specific school or not is never certain. All you can do is make yourself the most competitive applicant you can be to that end.
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You can do this. Definitely contact admissions people at the schools you are interested in. I personally had one school tell me that my Chemistry class from 1994 would stand, so you may be surprised. I too slacked off badly my first time through undergrad (~2.7ish). I didn't have a science degree or most of the prerequisites for dental school so I went back for another degree. I recently interviewed for dental school. You sound like you are in better shape and may have less of a hill to climb than I did, so go for it.
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DAT and math destroyer!
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I basically studied bootcamp religiously for 1-2 weeks. I used destroyer somewhat but never finished a particular section. I also watched Chad's videos but only really studied off of his notes and quizes. My study schedule was really bare-bones; I went into the test knowing there was no way in hell I was getting a 30. But yes, I highly recommend DAT bootcamp and destroyer-practice makes...something...passable?
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Chad's videos are best for review of the material; bootcamp best for practice for the real DAT; Orgoman DAT destroyer best for mastering the material and getting a high, high score. I used all of them and can vouch for the effectiveness and value of each.
you will get in if you get a 22+ on the dat. Trust me I had similar gpa, but lots of ec's, upward trend and a 22aa/23ts dat and I have 4 pre-dec interviews. Im also Canadian so I was restricted to where I could apply. You will do fine as long as you crush the dat and you will no doubt do well in interviews because of ur experiences. Good luck!!!
I would suggest taking the DAT in May and applying in June sometime. That will increase your chance of pre-Dec interviews. Double check the pre-reqs because some schools have a few other pre-reqs that are not across the board, biochem, anatomy, etc. are some you will need to take if you have not. Your age and work experience will likely make up for your lower GPA, but also, getting an A in any classes you need to take will help 🙂.
The class just needs to be done before you start dental school. It takes a few weeks for the scores to get uploaded but more importantly, it takes time to get your transcript and LOR's in. I think most people were seeing about 3 weeks from app submission to "complete" status, then you also have to do supplementals, etc. There are no guarantees you will get a pre-Dec interview, but some schools start sending out interview invites in July so why not be ready for that possibility?
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Isn't that the million dollar question
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