UCSF School of Dentistry — DAT Scores, Requirements and Admissions 2026
The UCSF School of Dentistry is one of the most prestigious and competitive dental schools in the United States. Located in San Francisco, California, UCSF is consistently ranked among the top dental schools in the country and is known for its world-class research, diverse patient population, and commitment to advancing oral health care.
Students who thrive at UCSF demonstrate exceptional academic preparation, strong DAT scores, and a passion for research and community service.
DAT Expectations at UCSF School of Dentistry
UCSF is one of the most competitive dental schools in the country. The average Academic Average for admitted students is historically around 23 on the old scale — placing it among the highest of any dental school in the United States.
Based on recent entering class data, competitive applicants to UCSF generally present:
- Academic Average (AA): ~23 (old scale) / approximately 460 (new 200–600 scale)
- Total Science (TS): ~23 (old scale) / approximately 460 (new 200–600 scale)
- Perceptual Ability Test (PAT): competitive scores across all sections
Students preparing for UCSF often rely on the DAT Destroyer, created by Dr. Jim Romano, to build the deep conceptual understanding required for top scores. To understand how to prepare effectively, see our DAT Study Guide (2026).
👉 Learn how the DAT is scored: DAT Score Conversion — Understand the New 3-Digit Scale
Why UCSF School of Dentistry Stands Out
- Consistently ranked among the top dental schools in the United States
- Located in San Francisco with access to one of the most diverse patient populations in the country
- World-class research programs and strong emphasis on evidence-based dentistry
- Extensive clinical training with high patient volume
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration with UCSF's broader health sciences programs
- Robust alumni network across the country and internationally
Dental Programs at UCSF School of Dentistry
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates
- Combined DDS/PhD program
Post-Graduate and Specialty Programs
- Orthodontics
- Periodontics
- Endodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
- General Practice Residency
UCSF Dental School Admissions
Application Timeline
- Applications open through AADSAS in May
- Early submission strongly recommended — rolling admissions
- Interviews conducted on a rolling basis through the fall
Required Materials
- AADSAS application with personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- DAT scores
Prerequisite Coursework Requirements
Applicants must have completed at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework. A bachelor's degree is strongly preferred.
Required Courses
- Biology with lab — 2 semesters
- General Chemistry with lab — 2 semesters
- Organic Chemistry with lab — 2 semesters
- Physics with lab — 2 semesters
- English or Writing — 2 semesters
- Biochemistry — 1 semester (strongly recommended)
GPA Review Includes
- Overall GPA
- Science GPA (3.5 or higher is generally competitive)
- Grade trends and academic rigor
- Institution level and course difficulty
Shadowing Requirement
Meaningful dental shadowing experience is required. A minimum of 100 hours is recommended, with exposure to multiple dental specialties preferred.
Boosting Your Chances of Acceptance at UCSF
Earn a Highly Competitive DAT Score
UCSF is one of the most selective dental schools in the country. A score around AA 23 (old scale) / 460 (new scale) is where competitive applicants land. Use concept-driven materials like the DAT Destroyer to build mastery across all sections of the DAT.
Demonstrate Research Experience
UCSF places a strong emphasis on research. Lab experience and research involvement significantly strengthen your application.
Apply Early
UCSF uses rolling admissions — earlier applications have a significant advantage.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Clearly articulate your passion for dentistry and how UCSF's research-driven mission aligns with your career goals.
Recommended Personal Statement Help: EduWritingServices
DAT Prep Support for UCSF Applicants
DAT Destroyer
Advanced practice in Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Math:
DAT Destroyer
Math Destroyer
Targeted quantitative reasoning practice:
Math Destroyer
General Chemistry Destroyer
Deep concept mastery for General Chemistry:
General Chemistry Destroyer
Organic Chemistry Odyssey
Master Organic Chemistry reactions and mechanisms:
Organic Chemistry Odyssey
Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book
Comprehensive Biology review for the DAT:
Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book
Free Biology Review
Download Dr. Romano's Dynamite Biology Review inside the DAT and OAT Destroyer Study Group
YouTube Lessons
Hundreds of free video lessons across all DAT subjects:
DAT Destroyer YouTube Channel
Best DAT Study Materials (2026 Guide)
See how all the books work together: Best DAT Study Materials (2026 Guide)
Frequently Asked Questions — UCSF School of Dentistry
Is UCSF a good dental school?
Yes — UCSF is consistently ranked among the top dental schools in the United States, known for its research output, clinical training, and strong alumni network.
What DAT score do I need for UCSF?
UCSF is one of the most competitive dental schools in the country. The average AA for admitted students is historically around 23 on the old scale / approximately 460 on the new 200–600 scale.
What GPA does UCSF look for?
Both overall and science GPA are reviewed holistically. A science GPA of 3.5 or higher is generally competitive for UCSF.
Is shadowing required?
Yes — meaningful dental shadowing is required. At least 100 hours is recommended with exposure to multiple specialties.
Does UCSF accept international students?
Yes, through the Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates.
Start Your DAT Preparation
If you're planning your DAT test date, the next step is choosing the right DAT study materials.
DAT Destroyer
Math Destroyer
General Chemistry Destroyer
Organic Chemistry Odyssey
Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book
If you're preparing for the DAT or OAT, the full Destroyer series is used in Dr. Jim Romano's DAT preparation courses.
Ready to start studying? Follow Dr. Romano's 3-Month DAT Study Schedule (2026)