Howard University College of Dentistry — DAT Scores, Admissions & Programs 2026
Howard University College of Dentistry — Overview, Programs, Admissions, and Requirements
Founded in 1881, the Howard University College of Dentistry (HUCD) is one of the most historically significant dental schools in the United States. As part of Howard University — the nation's most prominent Historically Black University (HBCU) — HUCD has played a vital role in training generations of dental professionals, particularly those committed to serving underrepresented and underserved communities.
Located in Washington, D.C., HUCD combines rigorous academic training with a deep commitment to community health, social equity, and clinical excellence. If you're an aspiring dentist who values both academic excellence and meaningful community impact, Howard could be the right fit for your career.
Howard University College of Dentistry DAT Score Requirements (2026)
The DAT is now scored on a 200–600 scale (updated by the ADA in 2025). Here is what competitive Howard University applicants typically score:
| Applicant Level | AA Score (New 200–600 Scale) | Old Scale Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum competitive | ~440–460 | ~18–20 |
| Strong applicant | ~460–480 | ~20–22 |
| Very strong applicant | 480+ | ~22+ |
⚠️ Important: HUCD reviews applications holistically. GPA, DAT scores, community service, letters of recommendation, and personal statement all factor into the admissions decision.
👉 Learn how the DAT is scored: DAT Score Conversion — Understand the New 3-Digit Scale
Why Howard University College of Dentistry Stands Out
- One of the oldest dental schools in the United States, founded in 1881
- Located in Washington, D.C. — access to a diverse, urban patient population
- Strong emphasis on community health and service to underserved populations
- Part of Howard University, the nation's leading HBCU
- Graduates who go on to lead in public health, private practice, and academia
- Supportive, mission-driven academic environment
Dental Programs at Howard University College of Dentistry
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
The four-year DDS program is the cornerstone of HUCD's offerings. Students receive comprehensive training in biomedical sciences, preclinical skills, and clinical dentistry. The program emphasizes hands-on patient care from early in the curriculum, preparing graduates for successful careers in general and specialty dentistry.
Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)
The AEGD program provides post-doctoral training for dentists seeking to expand their clinical skills in a structured, supervised environment. This one-year program is ideal for new graduates looking to build confidence and competence before entering private practice.
Graduate and Specialty Programs
HUCD offers graduate training in several specialty areas including Endodontics, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, and Prosthodontics. These programs provide advanced clinical and didactic training for dentists pursuing board certification in their specialty.
Continuing Education
Howard University College of Dentistry also offers continuing education programs for practicing dental professionals seeking to update their skills and stay current with advances in the field.
Howard University College of Dentistry Admissions
Application Requirements
- AADSAS application
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- DAT scores (taken within the last three years)
- Three letters of recommendation (at least two from science faculty)
- Personal statement
- Application fee
Academic Requirements
Applicants must have completed a minimum of 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework. A bachelor's degree is strongly recommended. Competitive applicants typically present a science GPA of 3.0 or higher and an overall GPA of 3.2 or higher.
Required Prerequisite Courses
- Biology with lab — 2 semesters
- General Chemistry with lab — 2 semesters
- Organic Chemistry with lab — 2 semesters
- Physics with lab — 2 semesters
- English — 2 semesters
- Biochemistry — 1 semester (recommended)
Shadowing Requirement
Applicants are expected to have meaningful dental shadowing experience. A minimum of 100 hours is recommended to demonstrate genuine commitment to the profession.
Tips for Getting Into Howard University College of Dentistry
Build a Strong Academic Foundation
Focus on your science GPA and DAT preparation early. Use concept-driven resources like the DAT Destroyer, created by Dr. Jim Romano, to build a deep understanding of high-yield concepts across all DAT subjects.
Demonstrate Community Commitment
HUCD places strong value on service. Volunteering at dental clinics, community health fairs, or underserved health programs will significantly strengthen your application.
Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Choose recommenders who know you well — science professors, dentists you've shadowed, and mentors who can speak to your character, work ethic, and commitment to dentistry.
Write a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell your story. Be specific about why you want to attend Howard and how your background aligns with the school's mission of service and community health.
Apply Early
HUCD uses rolling admissions. Submitting your application early in the cycle gives you the best chance of securing an interview and an offer.
Career Outcomes for Howard Dental Graduates
Graduates of Howard University College of Dentistry go on to successful careers in private practice, public health, the military, academia, and specialty training programs. HUCD alumni are known for their commitment to serving diverse communities and for their leadership in organized dentistry.
Students comparing top dental schools often also review programs such as the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry to better understand differences in admissions standards and academic structure.
👉 What is the DAT? Understanding the Dental Admission Test
Start Your DAT Preparation
If you're preparing for the DAT or OAT, the DAT Destroyer and Math Destroyer are the core books used in Dr. Jim Romano's DAT preparation courses, both online and in person.
DAT and OAT Classes (In-Person and Online)
Free resources and community: DAT and OAT Destroyer Study Group