The New 200–600 DAT Scoring Scale
Until early 2025, DAT scores were reported on a 1–30 scale. The ADA has transitioned to a three-digit scoring system ranging from 200 to 600.
200 represents the minimum reported score
600 represents the maximum reported score
400 represents the national average
As before, your raw number of correct answers is converted to a scaled score. The exact raw-to-scaled relationship can vary slightly depending on exam difficulty. There is still no penalty for incorrect answers, so guessing is encouraged.
To better understand how your results compare nationally, review our full guide to DAT score percentiles (2026).
Important Note About DAT Score Comparisons
The ADA has not released an official one-to-one conversion or formula linking specific 1–30 DAT scores to specific 200–600 scores.
The ADA has published a DAT concordance table to help students, advisors, and dental schools approximately compare performance across the old and new scoring systems during the transition period. This table is based on score distributions and percentile alignment, not exact mathematical equivalence.
Any score comparisons across the two systems should be viewed as approximate reference ranges only. Because the scoring models are constructed differently, precise score-to-score conversions are not possible.
For reference, the ADA’s DAT score reporting and concordance table can be found here:
The only official score is the one reported directly by the ADA on your DAT score report.
What Are DAT Percentiles
Your DAT percentile shows how your score compares to other students who took the exam.
A percentile answers the question:
What percentage of test takers did I score higher than?
For example:
A 90th percentile score means you scored higher than 90 percent of DAT examinees nationwide.
A 50th percentile score means you scored right at the national average.
Percentiles are recalculated periodically as more data is collected, so exact percentile cutoffs can shift slightly from year to year.
How to Find Your DAT Percentile
To determine your percentile:
Look at your scaled score on the ADA score report.
Use the ADA percentile table corresponding to the current testing year.
Match your Academic Average, Total Science, or section score to its percentile.
As an example, a score around 480 often corresponds to a higher percentile range, depending on the national testing pool for that year.
Understanding the “21 Percentile” Confusion
A common source of confusion is the difference between a score and a percentile.
A 21 score on the old 1–30 DAT scale was historically a strong performance.
A 21 percentile, however, means you scored higher than 21 percent of test takers.
Although the numbers look similar, they measure completely different things. Scores reflect your scaled test performance, while percentiles reflect your ranking compared to other examinees.
A percentile in the low 20s is considered below average and usually indicates that additional preparation is needed before applying to dental school. This confusion is one reason the ADA cautions against directly comparing old two-digit scores with new three-digit scores.
What Is Considered a Good DAT Score Today
There is no official passing score. Each dental school sets its own standards, but general guidelines are helpful.
Scores around 400 represent national average performance.
Scores in the mid 440s to 460s are above average and competitive at many programs.
Scores around 480 and higher reflect strong performance and higher percentiles.
Scores above 500 are uncommon and place students in very high percentile ranges.
Admissions committees evaluate DAT scores alongside GPA, coursework, shadowing, research, extracurriculars, and personal statements. A balanced application always matters more than a single number.
Should You Retake the DAT
Retaking the DAT may be worth considering if:
Your score is below the national average.
You scored significantly lower in multiple science sections.
You believe your score does not reflect your true ability or preparation.
DAT retake rules still apply. You must wait 60 days between attempts and are limited to four attempts within a 12-month period. After a fifth attempt, testing is limited to once per year.
How to Improve Your DAT Percentile
Focus on weak areas rather than only practicing strengths.
Work on timing and pacing under test conditions.
Reinforce foundational biology and chemistry concepts.
Practice challenging problems that mirror exam difficulty.
Use trusted, exam-focused study materials.
For common pitfalls, see:
Top 10 Most Common DAT Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentile is competitive for dental school
Most successful applicants fall between the 60th and 90th percentiles, depending on the program.
Does the new scoring system change percentiles
No. Percentiles still reflect your standing compared to other test takers.
Do schools value Academic Average or Total Science more
Both matter, but AA and TS remain two of the strongest predictors of interview offers.
Final Thoughts
The new 200–600 DAT scoring system looks different, but percentiles remain the key to understanding your performance. Scores near the national average reflect baseline competitiveness, while higher scores and percentiles signal stronger readiness.
No matter where you fall, remember that DAT scores are only one part of your application. Preparation, persistence, and a thoughtful study plan matter just as much.
If you are serious about improving your DAT performance, the DAT Destroyer, Math Destroyer, OAT Destroyer, and Dr. Romano’s Biology Review have helped students raise their percentiles for decades.
Understanding Percentiles and Competitiveness
To understand how these scores translate into percentiles and admissions competitiveness, see our detailed guide:
DAT Percentiles — How to Interpret Your Score and Improve Your Chances
Looking for additional support
DAT Destroyer and Math Destroyer