East Tennessee State University College of Dental Medicine — DAT Requirements, Admissions, and Tuition 2026

East Tennessee State University College of Dental Medicine is one of the newer dental schools in the United States, established with a strong mission to address the dental workforce shortage in rural Appalachia and underserved communities across Tennessee and the surrounding region.

Students applying to ETSU College of Dental Medicine should be prepared to submit competitive DAT scores, a strong science GPA, and meaningful dental shadowing and community service experience.

➡️ DAT Study Guide
➡️ DAT Score Conversion (2026)

DAT Requirements at ETSU College of Dental Medicine

ETSU does not publish a strict minimum DAT score, but competitive applicants typically present Academic Average (AA) scores in the range of approximately 390–440. Science subscores are reviewed as part of a holistic admissions process.

Competitive DAT Score Range (estimated):

Academic Average (AA): approximately 390–440 (new 200–600 DAT scale)
Total Science (TS): approximately 390–440
Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry: typically within a similar range

GPA Requirements

Competitive applicants typically present:

Science GPA: 3.2–3.5
Overall GPA: 3.3–3.6

Prerequisites

Applicants are generally required to complete the following coursework before matriculation:

Biology with lab (2 semesters)
General Chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
Organic Chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
Biochemistry (1 semester)
English or Writing (2 semesters)
Mathematics or Statistics (1 semester)
Microbiology (recommended)

Application Process

ETSU participates in the ADEA AADSAS application system. Key steps include:

Submit your AADSAS application (opens in May each year)
Complete the ETSU supplemental application
Submit DAT scores, transcripts, and letters of recommendation
Selected applicants are invited for an interview

ETSU gives preference to Tennessee residents and applicants with ties to rural or underserved communities. Rolling admissions apply, so applying early is strongly recommended.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

ETSU College of Dental Medicine is a public institution, offering more affordable tuition for Tennessee residents.

In-state tuition: approximately $28,000–$35,000 per year
Out-of-state tuition: approximately $55,000–$65,000 per year
Total estimated cost of attendance (including living expenses): $60,000–$80,000 per year

Tuition figures are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current rates on the ETSU official website.

Location and Campus

East Tennessee State University College of Dental Medicine is located in Johnson City, Tennessee, in the heart of the Appalachian Highlands. The school's mission is deeply rooted in serving rural and underserved populations, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about community health and access to care. Students applying to Tennessee dental schools may also want to explore University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, another strong program in the state.

How to Prepare for the DAT for ETSU Admissions

To be competitive at ETSU, you need a strong foundation in the sciences — especially Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. Dr. Jim Romano's DAT Destroyer series is built around exactly these subjects.

Watch free DAT prep lessons from Dr. Jim Romano on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@ORGOMAN-DAT-DESTROYER

Recommended DAT prep books:

Start Your DAT Preparation for ETSU

If you are preparing to apply to East Tennessee State University College of Dental Medicine, start with free official resources from Dr. Jim Romano:

➡️ Start Your DAT Preparation for Free

Or explore the full DAT Destroyer book series:

Also explore our DAT prep classes with Dr. Jim Romano.