California is home to some of the nation’s most reputable dental schools, offering rigorous academics, advanced clinical training, and innovative research opportunities. With diverse populations and expansive healthcare networks, California dental schools provide an excellent environment for students pursuing careers in dentistry. This guide covers the top dental schools in California, complete with key statistics and expert guidance to help applicants make informed decisions.
Dental Schools in New York
1. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
UCSF consistently ranks among the best dental schools in the US and is known for its cutting-edge research and clinical excellence. Located in San Francisco, UCSF provides a diverse and inclusive learning environment, giving students a unique opportunity to treat patients from various backgrounds and medical needs.
Quick Facts:
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- Acceptance Rate: ~6.3%
- Average GPA: 3.68
- Average DAT Score: 23.3
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$109,952/year
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2. University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Located in downtown San Francisco, the Dugoni School offers a unique three-year DDS program that emphasizes humanism, innovation, and accelerated learning. Students receive hands-on clinical experience early in the curriculum, and the school is known for producing confident, practice-ready graduates.
Quick Facts:
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- Acceptance Rate: ~6%
- Average GPA: 3.5
- Average DAT Score: 22
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$135,000/year
Tip: Dugoni’s fast-paced curriculum is ideal for self-starters. If you’re preparing your secondary essays, Secondary Essay Editing from Code Blue Essays can help refine your responses.
3. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry
UCLA offers a world-class education with access to advanced research facilities and clinical rotations across Los Angeles. The school places strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, preventive care, and interdisciplinary healthcare.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Acceptance Rate: ~5.5%
- Average GPA: 3.75
- Average DAT Score: 23
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$85,000/year (residents)
4. Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
Loma Linda integrates Christian values with dental education, providing service-oriented training that prepares students for ethical practice. The school is known for its global dental missions and compassionate care philosophy.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Loma Linda, CA
- Acceptance Rate: ~4.7%
- Average GPA: 3.3
- Average DAT Score: 20
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$120,000/year
5. Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine
WesternU’s dental program emphasizes interprofessional education and whole-person care. Located in Pomona, it offers state-of-the-art facilities and a strong foundation in patient-centered practice.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Pomona, CA
- Acceptance Rate: ~5.2%
- Average GPA: 3.5
- Average DAT Score: 21.2
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$118,000/year
6. California Northstate University College of Dental Medicine
One of the newer dental schools in California, California Northstate offers a DDS program that emphasizes evidence-based dentistry and community engagement. The curriculum integrates biomedical sciences with clinical skills early on.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Elk Grove, CA
- Acceptance Rate: Data not yet published
- Average GPA: 3.3 (estimated)
- Average DAT Score: 20.5 (estimated)
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$115,000/year
7. California Health Sciences University College of Dental Medicine
Located in Clovis, this relatively new dental school offers a mission-driven program focused on serving underserved communities in California’s Central Valley. Students benefit from hands-on training and a collaborative environment.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Clovis, CA
- Acceptance Rate: Data not yet available
- Average GPA: 3.4 (estimated)
- Average DAT Score: 20.8 (estimated)
- Total Cost of Attendance: ~$112,000/year
8. University of California, Irvine School of Dentistry (Planned)
While not yet open for admissions, UC Irvine has announced plans for a dental school to support healthcare innovation and access in Southern California. It is expected to follow a research-forward and interprofessional curriculum.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Irvine, CA
- Acceptance Rate: N/A (not yet open)
- Expected Start Year: TBA
9. San Diego Dental School at United States University
United States University has proposed the establishment of a dental school in San Diego. While still in development, the school aims to offer affordable education with a focus on underserved populations.
Quick Facts:
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Status: Proposed
- Expected Opening: Pending accreditation
10. California Dental Institute (Private, Unaccredited)
- Though not accredited to grant DDS or DMD degrees, California Dental Institute offers postdoctoral and continuing education programs for dental professionals. It may serve as a supplemental educational resource but is not a pathway to licensure.
Quick Facts:
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Accreditation: Not CODA-accredited
- Programs: Continuing Education
Conclusion
California hosts several of the nation’s most progressive and respected dental schools. Whether you’re drawn to research-heavy institutions like UCSF or innovative accelerated programs like Dugoni, there’s a perfect fit in the Golden State. Remember to tailor your application to each school’s mission and make use of resources like Dental School Primary Application Review from Code Blue Essays.
Related: Dental Schools in Arkansas
FAQs
How many dental schools are there in California?
There are currently 7 accredited dental schools and 2–3 proposed or planned programs.
Which California dental school has the highest acceptance rate?
University of the Pacific generally reports the highest acceptance rate, partly due to its three-year program structure.
Is it harder to get into California dental schools?
Yes, due to high competition and applicant volume. Strong DAT scores, GPA, and compelling personal statements are essential.
Are there scholarships available for California dental schools?
Most schools offer merit- and need-based scholarships. Check each school’s financial aid office for details.
Guidance for Applicants
- Start Early: California dental schools have strict deadlines. Begin preparing 6–9 months in advance.
- Understand Each School’s Mission: For example, Loma Linda values faith-based service, while UCSF focuses on research.
- Write a Strong Personal Statement: Tailor your narrative and seek help from professional editors.
- Use Expert Services: Code Blue Essays can support you with personal statement editing, interview prep, and secondary essay reviews.
- Be Organized: Track deadlines and requirements for each school using a dedicated spreadsheet or planner.