What Are the Easiest Dental Schools to Get Into?
Easiest Dental Schools to Get Into (2026 Guide)
If you are searching for the easiest dental schools to get into, you are not alone. Every year, thousands of pre-dental students look for programs with higher acceptance rates and realistic GPA and DAT score expectations. This guide compiles admissions data and insights into some of the easiest dental schools to get into — but remember, "easiest" does not mean "easy."
Because dental school admissions remain highly competitive nationwide, students with lower GPAs can strengthen their applications significantly with a strong DAT score, meaningful shadowing experience, and a compelling personal statement.
Also read: DAT Study Guide (2026) | DAT Percentiles – How to Interpret Your Score | Best DAT Prep Books (2026)
Easiest Dental Schools to Get Into (2026) - Quick Comparison
| School | Acceptance Rate | Avg GPA | Avg DAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mississippi | 29.4% | 3.54 | 19.3 |
| Arizona School of Dentistry (ASDOH) | 13.08% | 3.42 | 19.5 |
| East Carolina University | 15.8% | 3.67 | 21 |
| University of Utah | 10.44% | 3.63 | 20.8 |
| University of Puerto Rico | 10% | 3.46 | 17.4 |
| Augusta University (Georgia) | 11.3% | 3.67 | 21 |
| University of Minnesota | 10.21% | 3.58 | 20.9 |
| Ohio State University | 12.55% | 3.65 | 21 |
| University of Detroit Mercy | 9.4% | 3.61 | 20.2 |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | 12.8% | 3.76 | 20.5 |
Note: Always verify directly with each school before applying.
Are These Dental Schools Really "Easy" to Get Into?
No dental school is truly easy to get into. Even schools with higher acceptance rates still require strong academics, a solid DAT score, and a well-rounded application. The term "easiest" simply means relatively more accessible compared to other programs — not guaranteed admission.
Easiest Dental Schools to Get Into - Detailed Breakdown
1. University of Mississippi School of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate: 29.4% | Avg GPA: 3.54 | Avg DAT: 19.3
The highest acceptance rate of any U.S. dental school. Emphasizes community-based care and rural health outreach. Mississippi residents have a significant advantage.
2. Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ASDOH)
Acceptance Rate: 13.08% | Avg GPA: 3.42 | Avg DAT: 19.5
Private school with no state residency preference — strong option for out-of-state applicants. Known for community health focus and slightly lower GPA averages than many private programs.
3. East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine
Acceptance Rate: 15.8% | Avg GPA: 3.67 | Avg DAT: 21
Established to address dentist shortages in rural NC. Strongly prioritizes NC residents committed to serving underserved communities.
4. University of Utah School of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate: 10.44% | Avg GPA: 3.63 | Avg DAT: 20.8
A newer program growing rapidly in reputation. Strongly favors Utah residents and values research experience and community service.
5. University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine
Acceptance Rate: 10% | Avg GPA: 3.46 | Avg DAT: 17.4
One of the lowest average DAT requirements of any accredited U.S. dental school. Conducted primarily in Spanish with significantly lower tuition than mainland programs.
6. Augusta University Dental College of Georgia
Acceptance Rate: 11.3% | Avg GPA: 3.67 | Avg DAT: 21
Georgia's only public dental school. Strong preference for Georgia residents. Well-regarded for clinical training and research.
7. University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate: 10.21% | Avg GPA: 3.58 | Avg DAT: 20.9
One of the largest dental schools in the country. Its size means more seats for qualified out-of-state applicants than smaller programs.
8. Ohio State University College of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate: 12.55% | Avg GPA: 3.65 | Avg DAT: 21
Highly respected public dental school. Large class size makes it one of the more accessible Big Ten programs for out-of-state applicants.
9. University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate: 9.4% | Avg GPA: 3.61 | Avg DAT: 20.2
Private Jesuit institution with no residency preference. Strong emphasis on service and ethics, ideal for students focused on underserved populations.
10. University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate: 12.8% | Avg GPA: 3.76 | Avg DAT: 20.5
Integrated six-year program combining undergraduate and dental education — a distinctive option among the easiest dental schools to get into.
In-State vs. Out-of-State: What You Need to Know
Residency status is one of the most important factors when researching the easiest dental schools to get into:
- A 29% acceptance rate at a public school may mostly reflect in-state applicants. Out-of-state rates can be 3-5% or lower.
- Private schools like ASDOH and University of Detroit Mercy have no residency preferences.
- Always check each school's in-state vs. out-of-state data before building your list.
What DAT Score Do You Need?
| Old DAT Score | New Scale (approx.) | Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|
| 17-18 | ~400-420 | Competitive for select programs (e.g. UPR) |
| 19-20 | ~440-460 | Competitive for most schools on this list |
| 21+ | ~480+ | Strong candidate at all programs listed |
Even when targeting the easiest dental schools to get into, a DAT score of 440-480+ gives you the strongest chance. See our DAT score percentiles guide and the DAT Score Conversion (2026) to understand how your raw score maps to the 200–600 scale.
If you're preparing for the DAT, the DAT Destroyer is the core book used in Dr. Jim Romano's DAT preparation courses, both online and in person.
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Tips for Applying
1. Do Your Homework: Research what makes each program unique and whether your profile fits their mission.
2. Strengthen Your Academics: Excel in prerequisite courses to show readiness for dental school.
3. Prepare for the DAT: Use proven materials like DAT Destroyer and Math Destroyer. See our Best DAT Study Materials (2026 Guide) for a full breakdown of the most effective resources and study approaches.
4. Get Strong Recommendations: Ask professors or dentists who know your strengths.
5. Personalize Your Statement: Align your personal statement with each school's mission.
6. Apply Broadly: Multiple applications maximize your chances.
Preparing for the DAT
A strong DAT score is essential for any dental school — including the easiest dental schools to get into. Dr. Jim Romano has been helping students for over 35 years.
DAT and OAT Classes — in-person and online with Dr. Jim Romano
Free DAT Preparation Resources from Dr. Jim Romano
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest dental school to get into?
The University of Mississippi has the highest acceptance rate at ~29%, making it the most accessible for in-state Mississippi residents.
What GPA do I need?
Most schools expect 3.4+. Schools on this list go as low as 3.42, but 3.6+ gives you the strongest chance.
What is a good DAT score?
Under the new 200-600 scale, 440-480 is competitive for most programs here. 480+ is strong at virtually all U.S. dental schools.
Is it worth applying to competitive schools too?
Yes. Strong scores, academics, and a compelling story can open doors anywhere.
Do schools prefer in-state applicants?
Most public schools do. Private schools like ASDOH and Detroit Mercy accept all states equally.
Can I get into dental school with a low GPA?
Yes — many students are admitted with GPAs below the national average, especially when they demonstrate improvement over time, earn a strong DAT score, and apply strategically to programs that align with their background and strengths.
Related Guides
- How Long Does It Take to Become a Dentist?
- What Is the DAT Exam?
- DAT Score Percentiles
- DAT Time Breakdown
- DAT Study Guide (2026)
- Best DAT Prep Books (2026)
Conclusion
Whether you are targeting the easiest dental schools to get into or the most competitive programs, the foundation is the same: a strong DAT score, solid GPA, and genuine passion for dentistry. Stay focused and your white coat will be within reach.