 Planning to apply to dental school in 2025 or 2026? One of the most important steps in your journey is scheduling your DAT exam at the right time—and doing it the smart way. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about DAT scheduling, including updated scoring changes, test timelines, retake policies, and strategic tips for success.
📆 1. Year‑Round DAT Availability
You can schedule the Dental Admission Test (DAT) year-round at Prometric testing centers nationwide, subject to seat availability.
👉 Tip: Book your exam 60–90 days in advance, especially during busy spring and summer months.
🖱️ Visit adea.org for additional DAT logistics.
⏰ 2. Best Time to Take the DAT
Most students take the DAT in spring of junior year or the summer before senior year.
🗓️ For Fall 2026 dental school entry, aim to take the DAT by May 2025 to meet application deadlines that typically open mid-June.
🚫 Never rush the DAT—take it only when you're fully prepared to avoid costly retakes.
📚 Related: Why Students Fail the DAT the First Time — and How to Avoid It
đź“ť 3. Scheduling Guidelines & Retake Rules
Once the ADA approves your DAT eligibility and issues your DENTPIN, you have a 6-month window to schedule and take the exam.
Retake Policy:
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Minimum 60-day wait between attempts
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Limit of 4 attempts per 12 months
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Total of 5 lifetime attempts without special permission
đź”— Learn more at ada.org
đź“Ł 4. Major Scoring Update for 2025
Before February 22, 2025:
👉 DAT scored on a 2-digit scale (1–30)
Starting March 1, 2025:
📊 DAT switches to a 3-digit scale (200–600)
🛑 No more unofficial scores at the test center after this change. Official scores will be sent by email and posted online a few weeks later.
🧠5. What to Expect on Test Day
From the 2025 ADA Candidate Guide, here's the standard test breakdown:
| Section | Time |
|---|---|
| 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 |
âś… Bring valid ID, your DENTPIN, and arrive early.
🧩 6. How to Plan Your DAT Strategy
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Aim to test by May: Gives room for retakes before the application cycle.
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Avoid conflicts: Don’t schedule near finals or major life events.
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Register early: Prometric seats fill quickly—book 2–3 months ahead.
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Factor in delays: Remember the 60-day retake rule and score reporting windows.
âś… Quick DAT Scheduling Checklist
âś” Apply for DAT eligibility and get your DENTPIN
âś” Choose your ideal test month (e.g., May 2025)
✔ Register with Prometric 60–90 days in advance
✔ Take your test and allow 3–4 weeks for official scores
âś” Unsatisfied? Wait 60 days and retest if needed