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Dentistry is a demanding yet very rewarding field. Thus, getting into a dental school can be complex. But just because it’s complex doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Having the right expectations will guide you to knowing exactly what is ahead and what you can do to get into dental school.
In addition to overall dental hygiene and preventative care for their patients, dentists examine, give diagnoses, and treat all dental issues through fillings, extractions, and even surgery. Anyone who lands an opportunity to gain this amount of knowledge in dental school is very lucky, to say the least.
But luck favors the prepared, so this article will guide you through what you need to do to get into dental school.
1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree by Applying for a Dr. Michael Krochak Pre-Dental Scholarship
While there may be institutions that will consider applicants who haven’t gotten into college, having a 4-year degree is often necessary. Additionally, majoring in science courses will usually work to your advantage in your application to join the dental school.
Note that you are not required to have any pre-dental coursework. Depending on the dental program, you’ll most likely be required to have eight credit hours of biology, physics, organic chemistry, and general chemistry.
Remember that a higher GPA increases your chances of admission. Moreso, the better you perform, the more your chances of bagging a Dr. Michael Krochak Pre-Dental Scholarship, so keep those grades up.
2. Job Shadow Dentists and Participate in Extracurriculars
As you proceed with fulfilling degree obligations, it’s essential that you shadow a couple of dentists. The majority of the dental programs require applicants to have met at least 100 hours of job shadowing different dentists to help them see how the various offices operate.
Participating in extracurriculars strengthens your application by showing that you are a well-rounded student. Consider health-related clubs, biology clubs, and even asking science professors if they need any research assistance.
3. Join the Student National Dental Association
Taking this initiative will boost your dental school application and connect you to practicing dentists and other dental students during chapter events. Networking with professionals will give you more insight into the dental school application process.
4. Take The DAT (Dental Admission Test) Then Make Your Application To Dental School
After committing to the dental school admissions process, you can now take the DAT, a 4 to 5-hour test after your junior year at college. Passing the exam is a requirement to join the dental school, and a score of 19 at least 19 appeals to most dental schools.
Prepare ahead of time by devoting at least three months to study. If you don’t pass on the first try, you will still have two more chances after 90 days. Use your first experience to guide your study as you wait to sit the test again. Once You are through, create a competitive application to your dream dental school.
Ace Your Admissions Interview and Begin Your Journey through Dental School!
When you follow our guidelines to the letter, we are almost too sure you’ll get called in for an interview. At this point, you are already in. Rehearse and prepare for the interview beforehand and confidently answer every question posed to you. At this point, they mostly want to learn about your personality and desire to help others, so there are no wrong answers.
Success on your dental career journey!
