Trusted Since 2006
Cart 0
Trusted Since 2006
Cart 0

University of Kentucky College of Dentistry (2026 Guide)

University of Kentucky College of Dentistry (UKCD) is one of the leading public dental schools in the southeastern United States, located in Lexington, Kentucky, on the UK HealthCare campus. UKCD offers the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The school is known for its strong clinical training, research opportunities, and commitment to improving oral health across Kentucky and the Appalachian region.

Admissions Overview

UKCD is competitive, with a strong preference for Kentucky residents. Successful applicants typically present solid DAT scores, strong GPAs, and meaningful dental shadowing experience.

Typical Admitted Student Profile:

  • DAT Academic Average (AA): Approximately 19–21 AA (380–420 on the new DAT scale)
  • DAT Total Science (TS): Approximately 19–21 TS (380–420 on the new DAT scale)
  • Overall GPA: 3.4–3.7
  • Science GPA: 3.3–3.6
  • Dental shadowing: 100+ hours recommended

DAT Requirements

University of Kentucky College of Dentistry requires all applicants to submit DAT scores through AADSAS. There is no published minimum score, but competitive applicants typically score at or above the national average of 19–20 AA.

The DAT now also uses a 3-digit scoring scale (200–600), with 400 representing the national average. Understanding both DAT scoring scales is important when evaluating your scores and setting your target.

Strong performance in Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry is especially important for UKCD applicants.

How to Prepare for the DAT for UK

Scoring competitively for UKCD requires mastering the science sections of the DAT. For over 35 years, pre-dental students have relied on the DAT Destroyer series to build the depth of knowledge needed to score above the national average.

Recommended DAT Prep Books:

  1. DAT Destroyer — comprehensive science review
  2. Math Destroyer — Quantitative Reasoning practice
  3. General Chemistry Destroyer — focused chemistry review
  4. Organic Chemistry Odyssey — in-depth Organic Chemistry preparation
  5. Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book — Biology review for DAT and OAT

Application Process

UKCD participates in AADSAS. The application cycle typically opens in May and the school uses rolling admissions — applying early is strongly recommended. Out-of-state applicants should be aware that UKCD historically fills the majority of its class with Kentucky residents.

Application checklist:

  • AADSAS application
  • DAT scores (taken within the last 3 years)
  • Official transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation (3 required)
  • Personal statement
  • Dental shadowing documentation

Tuition and Fees (2026)

Tuition at UKCD is approximately $30,000–$40,000 per year for in-state students and $55,000–$65,000 per year for out-of-state students. As a public institution, UKCD offers strong value for Kentucky residents. Out-of-state applicants should factor the more expensive tuition into their school list planning.

Location and Campus

University of Kentucky College of Dentistry is located on the UK HealthCare campus in Lexington, Kentucky, one of the most comprehensive academic medical centers in the southeastern United States. Lexington offers students a high quality of life with a vibrant college-town atmosphere and strong clinical exposure. Students benefit from access to a large and diverse patient population through UK HealthCare's extensive network. The school is part of a major research university with deep ties to the surrounding healthcare community.

Is UK a Good Dental School?

University of Kentucky College of Dentistry has a strong regional reputation and is consistently recognized for its clinical training and community outreach. The school provides early hands-on patient care experience and graduates are well-prepared for licensure. For Kentucky residents, UKCD offers exceptional value and strong career placement in the region.

For out-of-state applicants, competitive DAT scores around 20+ AA (approximately 400+ on the new DAT scale) and a strong GPA are important for remaining competitive.

Watch free DAT prep lessons from Dr. Jim Romano on our YouTube channel.

Start Your DAT Preparation

Whether you are applying to UK or building your dental school list, strong DAT scores open doors. Follow our DAT 3-Month Study Schedule to build a structured plan from day one.

  1. DAT Destroyer — comprehensive science review
  2. Math Destroyer — Quantitative Reasoning practice
  3. General Chemistry Destroyer — focused chemistry review
  4. Organic Chemistry Odyssey — in-depth Organic Chemistry preparation
  5. Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book — Biology review for DAT and OAT

Join our Live DAT and OAT Classes with Dr. Romano

Join our DAT and OAT Destroyer Study Group on Facebook — free resources and community support.