Quick Overview – Columbia Dental School Admissions
Columbia Dental School Admissions Snapshot
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Estimated acceptance rate: ~4–6%
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Class size: ~80–90 students
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Average GPA (admitted students): ~3.7–3.8
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Average DAT Academic Average (AA): ~23
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Average DAT Total Science (TS): ~23
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DAT required: Yes (all sections, including PAT; greater emphasis on AA and TS)
Columbia Dental School Admissions Statistics and Requirements
If you are researching the Columbia dental acceptance rate, you are likely aiming for one of the most competitive dental programs in the United States. Columbia Dental School, officially known as the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, admits a very small number of students each year and expects exceptional academic credentials.
- GPA (admitted students): ~3.7–3.8
- DAT Academic Average (AA): ~23
- DAT Total Science (TS): ~23
If you’re early in the application process, it helps to understand how the DAT is structured and scored. Learn more in our guide to what the DAT exam is and how dental schools evaluate it:
https://orgoman.com/blogs/dental-admissions-test-and-road-to-dental-school-acceptance/what-is-the-dat-understanding-the-dental-admission-test-dat-for-students
This guide breaks down Columbia dental admissions statistics, DAT and GPA expectations, and what applicants need to be competitive.
Why Columbia Dental School Is So Competitive
Columbia consistently ranks among the most selective dental schools in the United States due to its small class size, Ivy League academic standards, strong biomedical curriculum, research emphasis, and extensive clinical exposure in New York City. These factors directly contribute to the extremely low Columbia dental acceptance rate.
Columbia Dental Acceptance Rate and Class Profile
Understanding the numbers helps set realistic expectations for applicants.
Each year, Columbia receives approximately 1,500–1,700 applications for a class of about 80–90 students. This places the estimated Columbia dental acceptance rate at roughly 4–6%, making it one of the most competitive dental schools in the country. While the exact percentage can vary slightly year to year, Columbia consistently remains among the lowest acceptance rates nationwide.
Columbia Dental School Requirements (DAT, GPA, and Coursework)
Academic Profile of Admitted Students
GPA Expectations
Admitted students typically present very strong academic records. The average cumulative GPA for accepted students is usually around 3.7–3.8, with science GPAs often at a similar or slightly higher level. Columbia places a strong emphasis on academic consistency across rigorous science coursework.
DAT Scores
DAT performance is a major factor in admissions decisions. Successful applicants generally score well above the national average.
The average DAT Academic Average (AA) and Total Science (TS) scores for admitted students are both around 23, with competitive applicants typically scoring in the 22–25+ range.
Because Columbia admits such a small percentage of applicants, understanding DAT percentiles and score competitiveness is critical when evaluating your chances of admission:
https://orgoman.com/blogs/dental-admissions-test-and-road-to-dental-school-acceptance/dat-percentiles-how-to-interpret-your-score-and-improve-your-chances
Columbia does require the DAT, including all sections (PAT included), but places greater emphasis on AA and TS.
Diversity and Class Composition
Columbia is committed to building a diverse dental class. The entering class generally reflects balanced gender representation and includes students from a wide range of academic, geographic, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including underrepresented groups in dentistry.
Columbia Dental School Admission Requirements
Applicants must complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution prior to matriculation.
Required coursework typically includes one year each of general biology with lab, general chemistry with lab, organic chemistry with lab, physics with lab, and English. Biochemistry is strongly recommended and can strengthen an application.
Dental Admission Test (DAT)
Applicants are encouraged to complete the DAT by the summer of the application year. While Columbia does not publish an official minimum score, competitive applicants generally score 20 or higher, with most admitted students exceeding that threshold.
Given the competitive Columbia dental acceptance rate, scores well above national averages are expected.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation are required. Two should come from science faculty, and one from a practicing dentist is strongly recommended. Letters should address academic ability, professionalism, and readiness for the rigors of dental school.
Extracurricular Experience
Successful applicants typically demonstrate meaningful dental shadowing, community service, and volunteer involvement. Research experience can be particularly valuable at Columbia, given the school’s strong emphasis on biomedical sciences.
Interview Process
Columbia commonly uses a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format. Interviews focus on communication skills, ethical reasoning, professionalism, and problem-solving. Preparation through mock interviews is highly recommended.
How to Improve Your Chances at Columbia Dental School
Because the Columbia dental acceptance rate is so low, preparation must be intentional and strategic. Competitive applicants typically combine strong GPAs, DAT scores in the 22–25+ range, and well-developed clinical and service experiences.
Using high-difficulty DAT practice materials is one of the most effective ways to prepare for competitive programs like Columbia:
https://orgoman.com/products/dat-destroyer
FAQ
What is the Columbia dental acceptance rate?
Columbia Dental School admits approximately 4–6% of applicants each year, making it one of the most selective dental programs in the United States.
What DAT score do you need for Columbia Dental School?
Admitted students typically earn DAT Academic Average (AA) and Total Science (TS) scores around 23, with competitive applicants scoring in the 22–25+ range.
Does Columbia require the DAT PAT section?
Yes. Columbia Dental School requires applicants to submit a complete DAT score report, which includes all sections of the exam, including the Perceptual Ability Test (PAT). While Columbia does not publicly specify how each DAT section is weighted, competitive applicants generally present strong overall DAT performance, particularly in the Academic Average and Total Science sections.
Final Thoughts
Admission to Columbia Dental School is exceptionally competitive, but students who understand the admissions expectations and prepare accordingly can stand out. By focusing on academic excellence, strong DAT performance, and a thoughtful application, you can position yourself as a competitive candidate at one of the nation’s most selective dental programs.