Choosing the right dental school is a crucial step for anyone planning to pursue a career in dentistry. The United States is home to some of the most respected dental institutions, each offering a unique blend of academic excellence, clinical experience, and research opportunities. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best dental schools in the US, including essential statistics to help applicants make informed decisions.
1. Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Harvard School of Dental Medicine, located in Boston, is one of the most selective and academically rigorous dental schools in the country. It offers an integrated medical-dental curriculum, enabling students to train alongside future physicians at Harvard Medical School. Known for its research opportunities and public health focus, HSDM prepares students for leadership in clinical practice and academia.
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| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard School of Dental Medicine | 3.18% | 3.94 | 24.7 | ~$101,872/year |
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
UCSF is a leader in dental education and biomedical research. Located in San Francisco, it offers a diverse patient population and a commitment to public health. The school integrates clinical practice with rigorous scientific training, making it ideal for students interested in research or academic careers.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UCSF School of Dentistry | ~6.3% | 3.68 | 23.3 | ~$109,952/year |
3. University of Michigan School of Dentistry
The University of Michigan provides students with early clinical exposure and strong community-based training. Known for its emphasis on evidence-based care and interdisciplinary education, it consistently ranks among the top dental schools in NIH funding.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan School of Dentistry | 6.6% | 3.81 | 22 | ~$102,539/year (residents) |
4. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Columbia offers a research-oriented dental program with access to top-tier clinical facilities in New York City. It emphasizes public health, advanced specialties, and integration with Columbia’s medical programs.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia University College of Dental Medicine | 5% | 3.7 | 23.4 | ~$138,680/year |
5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) Adams School of Dentistry
UNC’s dental school is known for its strong clinical training, outreach to underserved communities, and innovative curriculum. It offers early patient care and multiple specialty options.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNC Adams School of Dentistry | 5.43% | 3.7 | 22.5 | ~$86,264/year (non-residents) |
6. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Penn Dental provides a rich combination of clinical practice and scientific research. Located in Philadelphia, it has strong partnerships with hospitals and offers dual-degree options.
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| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine | 6.8% | 3.77 | 22.9 | ~$101,872/year |
7. New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry
NYU has the largest dental school in the US, offering broad exposure to clinical cases and patient diversity. It emphasizes technological innovation and public service.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NYU College of Dentistry | 12.4% | 3.61 | 21.1 | ~$101,872/year |
8. University of Washington School of Dentistry
Located in Seattle, the UW dental school is respected for its research, high board exam pass rates, and community dentistry focus. It’s ideal for students interested in public health.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Washington School of Dentistry | ~6.3% | 3.6 | 21 | ~$101,872/year |
9. University of Southern California (USC) Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
USC’s program uses a problem-based learning model and encourages early clinical experiences. Located in Los Angeles, students benefit from urban clinical exposure and a robust alumni network.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USC Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry | 6.39% | 3.6 | 21 | ~$165,741/year |
10. Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
BU’s dental school offers a forward-thinking curriculum and extensive patient care opportunities. It is known for promoting digital dentistry and international collaboration.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine | ~5% | 3.6 | 21.5 | ~$126,000/year |
11. University of Iowa College of Dentistry
The University of Iowa offers a balanced education in clinical training and research. It has strong board scores and is well-known in the Midwest for producing skilled general dentists.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Iowa College of Dentistry | ~9.3% | 3.7 | 21.3 | ~$95,000/year (non-residents) |
12. University of Florida College of Dentistry
UF is the only public dental school in Florida and is known for its research excellence and broad clinical training. It supports community outreach and oral health innovation.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida College of Dentistry | 5.4% | 3.75 | 21.8 | ~$93,000/year (non-residents) |
13. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Located in downtown Boston, Tufts offers a modern dental education with a focus on technology and inter-professional collaboration. It emphasizes global health and community care.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tufts University School of Dental Medicine | ~5% | 3.6 | 21.2 | ~$125,000/year |
14. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry
UIC offers strong public health integration and a mission-driven curriculum. Students are exposed to diverse clinical settings across Chicago.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UIC College of Dentistry | ~5.5% | 3.62 | 21.5 | ~$105,000/year (non-residents) |
15. Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine
Case Western combines academic strength with practical experience in Cleveland’s healthcare system. It offers tracks in community dentistry and dental research.
| School | Acceptance Rate | Average GPA | Average DAT Score | Total Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine | ~5.8% | 3.63 | 21.4 | ~$118,000/year |
Conclusion
Choosing from the best dental schools in the US requires careful consideration of program strengths, location, tuition, and your own career goals. Schools like Harvard, UCSF, and Michigan provide top-tier education, but other programs may offer better clinical exposure or financial value depending on your needs. Services like Secondary Essay Editing from Code Blue Essays can help you fine-tune your applications to match your target schools.
FAQs
What is the average DAT score for top dental schools in the US?
Most top dental schools accept students with DAT scores between 21–24. Competitive programs like Harvard and UCSF may expect even higher.
How do I choose the right dental school?
Consider factors such as curriculum style, research opportunities, patient exposure, cost, location, and specialty programs.
Do all dental schools require interviews?
Yes. Most schools conduct either traditional or Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI). Preparing through mock interviews can greatly enhance your performance.
Can I improve my chances if I have an average GPA?
Yes. A strong DAT score, meaningful experiences, and an excellent personal statement (which you can enhance through Code Blue Essays) can balance an average GPA.
Additional Tips for Dental School Applicants
1. Know the Prerequisites
Make sure you’ve completed required courses such as biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and English. Some schools also expect courses in anatomy, biochemistry, or microbiology.
2. Ace the DAT (Dental Admission Test)
A high score on the DAT, particularly in the Academic Average and Perceptual Ability sections, can strongly influence your admission chances. Consider using structured prep resources or joining a DAT prep course.
3. Gain Diverse Experience
Apart from shadowing, volunteer in community health clinics or participate in dental research projects. This shows your long-term commitment to the field and broadens your understanding of dental care.
4. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Request letters from professors, dentists you’ve shadowed, or research mentors. Aim for letters that reflect both academic capability and character.
5. Apply Early Through AADSAS
The Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS) opens in May. Applying early increases your chances of getting interviews and scholarship consideration.
6. Tailor Your Application for Each School
Research each school’s mission and values, then customize your supplemental responses accordingly. Some schools look for community-focused applicants; others prefer candidates with a research background.
7. Practice Mock Interviews
Whether it’s MMI (Multiple Mini Interviews) or traditional interviews, practice with a friend or use professional Dental School Interview Preparation services to simulate real scenarios.
8. Keep an Eye on Financial Aid and Scholarships
Tuition and living expenses can vary widely. Look for scholarships offered directly by schools or third-party organizations. Also, understand federal and private loan options.
9. Use a Professional Review for Your Application Materials
From your personal statement to your primary application, expert feedback can make a huge difference. Services like Dental School Primary Application Review from Code Blue Essays can help ensure your materials are polished, complete, and compelling.
10. Track Your Progress
Maintain a checklist of documents, deadlines, and application statuses for each school. Staying organized prevents last-minute stress and errors.