University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics — DAT Requirements, Admissions, and Tuition 2026

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics is one of the oldest and most respected dental programs in the United States, known for its strong research tradition, comprehensive clinical training, and commitment to serving patients across Iowa and the Midwest.

Students applying to Iowa 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 University of Iowa College of Dentistry

Iowa does not publish a strict minimum DAT score, but competitive applicants typically present Academic Average (AA) scores in the range of approximately 400–450. Science subscores are reviewed as part of a holistic admissions process.

Competitive DAT Score Range (estimated):

Academic Average (AA): approximately 400–450 (new 200–600 DAT scale)
Total Science (TS): approximately 400–450
Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry: typically within a similar range

GPA Requirements

Competitive applicants typically present:

Science GPA: 3.3–3.6
Overall GPA: 3.4–3.7

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

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

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

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

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry is a public institution, offering more affordable tuition for Iowa 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 University of Iowa official website.

Location and Campus

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry is located in Iowa City, home to one of the nation's top public research universities. Dental students benefit from a fully integrated health sciences campus alongside medical, pharmacy, and nursing students. Iowa City is consistently ranked as one of the most livable college towns in the country. Students applying to Midwest dental schools may also want to explore Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, another strong program in the region.

How to Prepare for the DAT for Iowa Admissions

To be competitive at Iowa, 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 Iowa

If you are preparing to apply to the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, 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.