NYU Dental School Admission Requirements

To be a competitive applicant for NYU’s dental program, you’ll need to meet the following core requirements:

1. Prerequisite Courses

NYU expects applicants to complete specific undergraduate coursework before applying. These usually include:

• General Biology with lab (1 year)

• General Chemistry with lab (1 year)

• Organic Chemistry with lab (1 year)

• Physics with lab (1 year)

• English/Writing courses

• Additional recommended courses: Biochemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology

Pro Tip: Take upper-level biology courses like genetics or cell biology to show advanced preparation.

2. GPA Expectations

While NYU doesn’t list an official minimum GPA, successful applicants typically have:

• Overall GPA: 3.3 or higher

• Science GPA: 3.2 or higher

Upward trends matter. If your early grades were lower, focus on showing improvement in recent semesters.

3. DAT Score Expectations

NYU uses the new DAT 3-digit scoring system introduced in March 2025. While exact cutoffs vary, competitive scores generally fall in these ranges:

• Academic Average (AA): 480–500+

• Total Science (TS): 490–510+

A strong DAT score helps balance a lower GPA and shows you’re ready for the rigor of dental school.

DAT Prep Tips for NYU Applicants

Scoring well on the DAT is one of the most important parts of your application to New York University Dentistry.

1. Start Early

Plan to take the DAT 12–15 months before you hope to start dental school. This allows time for retakes if needed.

2. Use Trusted Resources

Many NYU students have successfully used:

• DAT Destroyer – comprehensive practice problems in all science sections.

• Math Destroyer – for boosting QR scores.

• Dr. Jim Romano’s live DAT classes and YouTube walkthroughs for additional support.

“Train like a beast, test like a legend.” – Dr. Romano’s motto for DAT success.

3. Simulate the Real Exam

Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. This helps with pacing and builds test-day stamina.

The NYU Dental School Application Process

NYU participates in the AADSAS application service. Here’s a simplified timeline:

Supplemental Application:
NYU requires a separate supplemental application and fee once you’ve submitted AADSAS.

How to Stand Out as an NYU Applicant

With so many qualified applicants, here’s how to make your NYU dental application shine:

1. Shadowing & Volunteering:

   • Aim for 100+ shadowing hours in different dental specialties.

   • Consider community service projects, especially those that serve underserved populations.

2. Strong Letters of Recommendation:

   • At least 2 science faculty letters.

   • 1 dentist letter (preferably from someone you shadowed).

3. Personal Statement:

   • Tell your story.

   • Share why dentistry — and NYU — are the right fit for you.

Life at NYU Dental School

Studying dentistry at NYU means more than academics. Living in New York City provides access to:

• A diverse patient population.

• Cutting-edge clinical facilities.

• A vibrant campus and city life.

Cost Considerations:
NYU is a private institution, and tuition is among the highest in the country.
Look into:

• Federal loans

• Scholarships

• NYU’s financial aid packages

Final Thoughts and Free Resources

The NYU dental program is highly competitive, but with the right preparation, you can position yourself for success.

Start by:

• Focusing on prerequisite courses and maintaining a strong GPA.

• Preparing early for the DAT with proven study tools.

• Building a well-rounded application with strong experiences and essays.

Free Resources to Get Started:

Additional Resources:

• Visit our SDN FAQ Thread for DAT & OAT Questions

• Join our active DAT Destroyer Facebook Group for daily tips and peer support.

• Explore our DAT Prep Books.