Photo: Outside of the UCLA School of Dentistry by Christelle Nahas, February 7, 2014, via Wikimedia Commons. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5. Resized for web display; no cropping or other edits.
Thinking about applying to UCLA School of Dentistry? UCLA is one of the most competitive dental schools in the country, attracting top applicants from across the U.S. and around the world.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about applying — including prerequisites, DAT scores, timelines, and tips to strengthen your application. By the end, you’ll feel confident about what UCLA expects and how to prepare.
Why Choose UCLA School of Dentistry
UCLA’s dental program is known for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong clinical training. Located in Los Angeles, the school provides students with exposure to diverse patient populations and modern facilities.
Whether you’re interested in general dentistry or planning to specialize, UCLA offers one of the most respected DDS programs in the country. Graduates often go on to competitive residency programs and leadership roles in the field.
UCLA Dental School Requirements
To be a strong applicant, you’ll need to meet all of UCLA’s admissions requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown of what they expect from every applicant.
1. Degree Requirement
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Applicants must have at least three years of coursework and at least 90 semester units or 135 quarter units. UCLA notes that the majority of applicants have four years of coursework.
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While many applicants major in Biology or Chemistry, you can choose any major as long as you complete the required prerequisite courses.
2. GPA Expectations
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Published Overall GPA Average: 3.87 for the Class of 2028.
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Published Science GPA Average: 3.84 for the Class of 2028. These are class averages, not minimum requirements.
Many successful applicants have a strong science GPA, so focus on excelling in your biology, chemistry, and physics courses.
3. DAT Scores
As of March 1, 2025, the DAT uses a 3-digit scoring system, ranging from 200–600 in 10-point increments, replacing the previous 1–30 reporting scale.
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Competitive applicants for UCLA: UCLA states that scores of 420 and above on the new reporting scale are competitive. There is no minimum DAT score requirement.
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UCLA evaluates DAT scores alongside overall and science GPA, experiences, letters of recommendation, and the interview.
Applicants must take the U.S. DAT within UCLA’s three-year period including the current application year. Canadian DAT scores are not accepted.
4. Prerequisite Courses
UCLA requires the following minimum coursework, completed with a grade of C or higher no later than June 30 of the year for which admission is sought:
| Subject | Minimum Credits |
|---|---|
| Biology, with one year of laboratory coursework | 8 semester units or 12 quarter units |
| Inorganic/General Chemistry, with one year of laboratory coursework | 8 semester units or 12 quarter units |
| Organic Chemistry, with one year of laboratory coursework | 6 semester units or 8 quarter units |
| Physics, with one year of laboratory coursework | 8 semester units or 12 quarter units |
| English Composition, no laboratory component | 6 semester units or 8 quarter units |
| Introductory Psychology, no laboratory component | 3 semester units or 4 quarter units |
| Biochemistry, no laboratory component | 3 semester units or 4 quarter units |
UCLA specifies one year of laboratory coursework as two semesters or three quarters.
Note: Biochemistry is required. UCLA also recommends additional courses such as histology, physiology, human or comparative anatomy, and microbiology.
Accredited community-college coursework is accepted up to 70 semester units or 105 quarter units. UCLA’s current prerequisites page states that online classes for web-based education are not accepted.
A complete application includes the AADSAS application, official DAT scores, a minimum of three recommendation letters submitted through AADSAS, and UCLA’s non-refundable $60 supplemental fee. UCLA recommends four letters. Letters may come from objective sources familiar with the applicant’s accomplishments.
5. Shadowing & Volunteer Experience
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UCLA looks for real-world experience in dentistry.
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UCLA considers dental shadowing as part of its holistic admissions review.
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Community service and volunteer work are also highly valued.
Admissions Timeline
Here’s a general timeline for applying to UCLA School of Dentistry:
| Month | Action Item |
|---|---|
| Early June | Earliest submission date for the AADSAS application. UCLA encourages applicants to apply and complete their files early. |
| July–January | UCLA begins reviewing applications in July and schedules interviews between July and January. |
| December 1, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time | Application-submission deadline. |
| By December 31 | Last date to take the DAT. Official scores may post afterward; the application is not complete until official scores are posted. |
| December–late April | Acceptance notifications are issued on a rolling basis. |
| After April | Alternates may still receive acceptance notifications. |
UCLA encourages applicants to apply and complete their files as early as possible, although individual decisions are not based on the date the application is received.
Preparing for the DAT
The DAT plays a huge role in your application to UCLA. Strong scores help you stand out among thousands of competitive applicants.
Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
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Use high-quality study materials that thoroughly cover each section.
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Create a realistic study schedule — most students need 2–3 months of consistent prep.
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Practice under timed conditions to build stamina.
Recommended Resource: DAT Destroyer
Many UCLA applicants use the DAT Destroyer to master challenging biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and math problems.
What makes it different:
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No expiration dates or subscription limits
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Step-by-step solutions
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Built by Dr. Jim Romano, who has been helping students succeed for 35+ years
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average DAT score for UCLA dental students?
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UCLA’s published Class of 2028 profile reports average DAT scores of 23 overall, 23 science, and 22 perceptual ability on the previous 1–30 scale. These are dated class averages, not current-scale admissions thresholds.
2. Does UCLA require specific shadowing hours?
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The official UCLA admissions pages reviewed do not specify a numerical shadowing-hours requirement. Shadowing is considered as part of the holistic admissions review.
3. Can international students apply?
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Yes. International undergraduate applicants eligible for a student visa must meet the regular admissions requirements and complete all pre-dental prerequisites at an accredited U.S. college or university. UCLA states that financial aid is limited to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, so international applicants need adequate funding for educational and living expenses.
4. How many students are accepted each year?
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UCLA accepts about 88 students per class.
Conclusion
Applying to UCLA School of Dentistry is a challenging but exciting process. By understanding the requirements, meeting the prerequisites, and preparing thoroughly for the DAT, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a UCLA dental student.
When you’re ready to start studying for the DAT, check out the DAT Destroyer to give yourself a competitive edge and join thousands of successful students who have used it to achieve their dream scores.
👉 Helpful Links for UCLA Pre-Dental Students:
• UCLA Dental School Admissions Info
✉️ What to Send Professors for Your Dental School Letter of Recommendation
UCLA School of Dentistry Prerequisites Page