Understanding DAT Scores for Dental School Applications

For students aiming to enter dental school, understanding what different DAT scores mean for your application is crucial. This article will discuss DAT score ranges and their relation to application competitiveness.

Before you read on, check out our other article on how the DAT is scored here.

💹DAT Score Trends

When setting goals for the DAT, it is important to understand the historical trends. Data from the ADA shows that DAT scores have been trending upward in all sections for dental school applicants. This increasing competition means higher performance is required each year.

With this context in mind, we've created five categories that DAT scores fall into regarding competitiveness. These categories are based on the Academic Average (AA) score but can be applied to all sections.

➡️ Retake (<17)

• Score Range: Less than 17 AA
• Action: Retake necessary
• Explanation: This score is significantly below the average for all test-takers and will hinder your entry into dental school. Many schools won't consider applications with a single subject score below 17.

👎 Below Average & Uncompetitive (17-18)

• Score Range: 17-18 AA
• Action: Strongly recommended to retake
• Explanation: This score is below the average for all applicants and is generally uncompetitive due to the rising average DAT scores. While some students have gained admission with these scores, it represents a liability rather than an asset to your application.

✅ Average (19-20)

• Score Range: 19-20 AA
• Action: No retake necessary if the rest of your application is strong
• Explanation: This score range is on the lower end of the competitive spectrum. Many students gain admission with a 19-20 AA, but it does not set you apart. Ensure the rest of your application is polished and submitted early. If after applying with this score you experience an unsuccessful cycle, consider improving your score to enhance your chances.

🎉 Competitive (21-23)

• Score Range: 21-23 AA
• Action: No retake necessary
• Explanation: This score range demonstrates a strong ability to learn and apply foundational knowledge, making you a competitive applicant. Focus on improving other aspects of your application or interview if you encounter difficulties gaining acceptance.

🎉🔥Highly Competitive (24+)

• Score Range: 24+ AA
• Action: No retake necessary
• Explanation: Scores in this range place you in the top 1-3 percentiles of test-takers. Dental schools will take your application seriously, and your chances of acceptance are high. You may also qualify for merit-based scholarships. If you don’t gain acceptance with this score, review other parts of your application for weaknesses.

Conclusion

These five categories provide general guidelines for assessing your DAT score and setting study goals. Regardless of which category you fall into, remember that your DAT score is just one part of your entire application. With many schools reviewing applications holistically, it's essential to ensure the rest of your application is strong, no matter your DAT score.