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1. Year‑Round Availability
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You can schedule the DAT any day of the year, subject to seat availability at your local Prometric center adea.org
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Book early, especially during spring/summer—schedule appointments 60–90 days in advance to secure your preferred date
⏰ 2. When to Take It
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Most students take the DAT in the spring of their junior year or the summer afterward ada.org.
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If aiming for Fall 2026 entry, taking the DAT by May 2025 helps ensure scores arrive before most application deadlines (which often start mid‑June) But NEVER rush to take the DAT Exam take it when fully prepared to avoid a retake.
📝 3. Scheduling Guidelines & Retakes
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Once your ADA eligibility is approved, you get a six‑month window to take the exam
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If you need a retake, you must wait 60 days between attempts, and you’re limited to four total attempts in any 12‑month period
📣 4. Scoring Update (Important!)
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Before February 22, 2025: DAT uses a 2‑digit scale (1–30).
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Starting March 1, 2025: scores switch to a 3‑digit scale (200–600).
🧭 5. Typical Test Day Timeline
From the ADA’s 2025 Candidate Guide:
| Section | Duration |
|---|---|
| Optional Tutorial | 15 min |
| Survey of Natural Sciences | 90 min |
| Perceptual Ability Test | 60 min |
| Scheduled Break (optional) | 30 min |
| Reading Comprehension | 60 min |
| Quantitative Reasoning | 45 min |
| Post-Test Survey (optional) | 15 min |
| Total Time | 5 hr 15 min |
🧩 6. How to Plan Your DAT
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Aim to test by May: gives time for potential retakes (if needed) before applications.
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Clear calendar: avoid finals or other commitments around your test date.
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Register early: 60–90 days out, to secure your spot.
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Leave room: for the 60‑day retake rule and score reporting windows.
✅ Quick Action Steps
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Apply for DAT eligibility through the ADA and get your DENTPIN.
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Pick your ideal test month (e.g., May 2025).
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Schedule with Prometric ~2–3 months ahead.
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Take it and wait 3–4 weeks for official scores to be reported.
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If unsatisfied, wait 60 days, then retest.