For the past several years the number of applications have continued to increased. Recently the number has been well over 800.
How many people are accepted each year?
57-60.
Are Alabama residents given preference?
Yes, but U.S. candidates with excellent credentials are also considered.
Are three college years enough to gain acceptance?
Technically yes. However, an applicant completing only three years of college would generally not be competitive against recent applicant groups.
Are out-of-state residents considered?
Yes, but, accepted applicants are relatively few and highly qualified.
What kind of GPA does the average accepted applicant present?
The average is about 3.6 on a 4.0 scale.
Is the GPA the most important thing?
No. The overall academic record is more important. Some very important factors that are taken into consideration are where you went to school, the courses you took and how many courses you took each term, and how well you did.
What is the average DAT score?
Approximately 20 for the academic portion and 19 for the perceptual ability section.
When should I take the DAT?
This decision is probably best made in conjunction with your school's predental advisor. However, most people take it during or just after their junior year -after they have completed the prerequisite courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biology. Although physics is an important prerequisite course, it is not on the DAT.
How will I know if I should retake the DAT?
We generally advise students to retake the DAT if they score a 17 or below. A score of 17 is marginal and in recent years has generally not been sufficient for an interview.
What other items are of importance to the Admissions Committee?
Many things, including but not limited to, letters of evaluation, your essay, your interview, extracurricular activities, knowledge of dentistry as a career, and work history.
Do I need to get a job in a dental office to be considered?
No. Although any dental experience is useful in helping to determine whether or not this is a good career choice for you. It is not common that applicants work in a dental office prior to entering dental school. It has been our experience that such opportunities are limited and it is not realistic to emphasize "employment". It is important for you to observe in a number of dental offices to get a real feel for what the profession involves.
If I get accepted, when will I hear?
Acceptances are given throughout the interview year when final decisions are made about individual applicants. This generally occurs from December through February.
Are applicants with an international dental degree considered?
Not unless they are Alabama residents and have completed all undergraduate requirements at an accredited U.S. college or university.
Are applicants with international dental degrees given advanced standing?
No. There is no such program in place.
What is the difference between a D.M.D. degree and a D.D.S. degree?
D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine) and D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) degrees are equivalent degrees. The University of Alabama School of Dentistry awards the D.M.D. degree.
How Do I Get An Application?
Applications are available through :
AADSAS
1625 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036-2212
