Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (2026): DAT Requirements, Admissions, and Tuition | DAT Destroyer | OAT Destroyer | Dr. Jim Romano

Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) is one of the Midwest's most accessible and community-focused dental programs, known for its strong clinical training, research opportunities, and commitment to serving underserved populations across Illinois.

Students applying to SIU SDM should be prepared to submit competitive DAT scores, a strong science GPA, and meaningful dental shadowing and community service experience.

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SIU School of Dental Medicine at a Glance

SIU School of Dental Medicine is one of the most affordable public dental schools in the Midwest, with a strong focus on serving Illinois communities and underserved populations.

Location: Alton, Illinois
School Type: Public
Degree Awarded: DDS
Application Service: ADEA AADSAS
Interview Required: Yes
Rolling Admissions: Yes
Residency Preference: Strong preference for Illinois residents
Class Size: Approximately 50 students per entering class

DAT Requirements at SIU School of Dental Medicine

SIU SDM does not publish a strict minimum DAT score, but competitive applicants typically present Academic Average (AA) scores in the range of 410–450 on the new 3-digit DAT scoring scale. Science subscores are reviewed as part of a holistic admissions process.

Competitive DAT Score Range (estimated — new 3-digit scale):

Academic Average (AA): approximately 410–450
Total Science (TS): approximately 410–450
Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry: approximately 400–450

GPA Requirements

Competitive applicants to SIU SDM 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

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

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

SIU SDM gives strong preference to Illinois residents and practices rolling admissions, so applying early is strongly recommended.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

SIU School of Dental Medicine is a public institution, making it one of the more affordable dental schools in the country, particularly for Illinois residents.

In-state tuition: approximately $25,000–$32,000 per year
Out-of-state tuition: approximately $45,000–$55,000 per year
Total estimated cost of attendance (including living expenses): $55,000–$75,000 per year

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

Location and Campus

SIU School of Dental Medicine is located in Alton, Illinois, a small city near St. Louis, Missouri. The school is part of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's health sciences programs, giving dental students access to a collaborative academic environment. Being part of a major public university system gives SIU dental students a uniquely supportive clinical and academic environment.

How to Prepare for the DAT at SIU School of Dental Medicine

To be competitive at SIU SDM, 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: https://www.youtube.com/@ORGOMAN-DAT-DESTROYER

Recommended DAT prep books:

How to Get Into SIU School of Dental Medicine

Because SIU SDM uses a holistic admissions process, strong DAT scores should be supported by solid grades, dental shadowing, community service, leadership experience, and strong letters of recommendation. Illinois residents receive strong preference in the admissions process.

If you are preparing to apply to SIU School of Dental Medicine, start with free official resources from Dr. Jim Romano:

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Or explore the full DAT Destroyer book series:

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