University of Michigan Dental School: DAT Scores, GPA & Acceptance Rate (2026)
Founded in 1875, the University of Michigan School of Dentistry has a long and distinguished history of shaping the dental profession. For over a century, the school has been a starting point for countless successful dental professionals, who have gone on to push boundaries in research, patient care, and community service.
Today, the school remains a leader in dental innovation, constantly adapting to meet the changing needs of the field. If you're an aspiring dentist preparing with high-quality DAT study materials who values a rich history and cutting-edge progress, Michigan could be the perfect place to begin your career.
University of Michigan Dental School Overview
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry has a rich history dating back to 1875, making it the second-oldest dental school in the nation. Throughout its history, the school has consistently led the way in dental education, research, and patient care.
School Mission
The school's core values of education, service, research, and discovery drive its mission to advance oral health on a global scale. They envision a diverse community of dental professionals leading the field through groundbreaking research, innovative teaching methods, and exemplary patient care.
A World-Class Institution with a Welcoming Community
Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the dental school is located within the renowned University of Michigan medical campus. This provides students access to a vast network of resources, including state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge research laboratories, and a vibrant community of scholars and clinicians.
Michigan offers an inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds. Whether you're a resident or an international student, you'll find a supportive community eager to help you succeed in your dental education.
Diverse Programs for Aspiring Dental Professionals
The school offers a diverse range of programs to cater to various career paths in dentistry. From the comprehensive Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program to specialized graduate degrees and research-focused tracks, Michigan has a program to match your aspirations.
University of Michigan DAT Expectations
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry requires the DAT but does not publish a minimum DAT score or cutoff. According to Michigan, DAT scores close to the average of the most recent entering class are considered competitive.
Michigan currently reports an average DAT score of 22 for its 2025 entering class. Because Michigan reports this figure using the prior DAT scoring format, applicants taking the current DAT should use current ADA scoring information rather than treating an unofficial conversion as a Michigan admissions benchmark.
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👉 Learn how the DAT is scored: DAT Score Conversion (2026)
To understand where your score ranks among all test-takers, see DAT Percentiles (2026).
For a full preparation plan, see the DAT Study Guide (2026) and the Best DAT Prep Books (2026 Guide).
University of Michigan's Dental Programs
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry offers a variety of programs for different career paths in dentistry.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
The DDS program is the flagship of the school's offerings. This four-year program provides a foundation in biomedical and clinical sciences, preparing you to deliver excellent patient care. You'll gain hands-on experience in university hospitals and specialty clinics, working alongside experienced faculty and diverse patient populations.
The program also integrates research opportunities, allowing you to explore your scientific interests and contribute to the advancement of dental knowledge.
Dental Hygiene
Michigan offers multiple Dental Hygiene pathways, including an undergraduate BS, degree-completion BS, graduate MS, and accelerated online AS-MS pathway. The program opens doors to diverse career paths, including clinical practice, research, and education.
Internationally Trained Dentist Program (ITDP)
The ITDP is recommended for international dentists who wish to practice in the United States. This 28-month program focuses on bridging the educational and cultural differences between dental systems, ensuring you're well-prepared to meet the requirements of American dental practice.
Graduate Specialty Programs
If you envision yourself specializing in a particular area of dentistry, U-M has different graduate specialty programs. These include Endodontics, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, and Restorative Dentistry. These programs provide in-depth training and mentorship so you can become an expert in your chosen field.
Oral Health Sciences
The Oral Health Sciences PhD and Master's Program is for students with a passion for research and a desire to advance the field of oral health. You'll work alongside renowned researchers, exploring cutting-edge topics and contributing to discoveries that can improve oral health outcomes.
Dual Degree Programs
For students seeking to broaden their horizons, U-M offers dual degree programs that combine dental education with other fields. The DDS/MBA program equips you with business acumen to deal with the complexities of dental practice management, while the DDS/PhD program prepares you for a career in academic research.
Guide to the University of Michigan Dental School Admissions
Ready to become a Wolverine Dentist? Here is how to navigate the University of Michigan School of Dentistry's admissions process.
DDS Program
The school seeks academically strong students with a passion for dentistry and a desire to serve their community. A competitive GPA (around 3.82 for the 2025 entering class) and a strong DAT score are essential.
DDS Prerequisites
Michigan requires prerequisite coursework to be completed with a grade of C or better by May of the intended entering year:
- Biochemistry — 3 semester hours
- Microbiology — 3 semester hours
- Psychology — 3 semester hours
- Sociology — 3 semester hours
- English Composition — 6 semester hours
- Biology with labs — 8 semester hours
- General Chemistry with labs — 8 semester hours
- Organic Chemistry with labs — 8 semester hours
- Physics with labs — 8 semester hours
The minimum academic coursework requirement is 90 semester hours (approximately 135 quarter hours). A bachelor's degree is strongly encouraged but is not required.
DAT Timing
Official DAT scores must be received by October 15. Michigan recommends taking the DAT before applying or in June/July, and states that applicants should not take it later than August 31 if they need the score received by the deadline. DAT scores older than three years are not accepted.
Application Deadline and Fee
- AADSAS application period: Opens May 14 and closes October 15.
- Michigan supplemental application fee: $75.
Dental Shadowing
Michigan requires at least 100 hours of dental shadowing completed when the application is submitted. Applicants without 100 hours will not be reviewed or considered for an interview.
Letters of Recommendation
Michigan requires three letters of recommendation: two from science professors who taught and graded the applicant at the university level and one letter from an evaluator of the applicant's choice. A qualifying pre-health committee letter may substitute for the three required individual letters. An optional fourth letter is accepted.
Interview
If your application stands out, you'll be invited to a virtual Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). This interview format includes several short stations where you'll answer questions and respond to scenarios to demonstrate your communication, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making skills.
Dental Hygiene Program
If you're passionate about preventive care and educating patients, the Dental Hygiene program might be your path. The admissions requirements are similar to the DDS program, with some slight variations in coursework. The program seeks applicants who have a strong interest in community service and oral health promotion.
Internationally Trained Dentist Program (ITDP)
For international dentists wanting to practice in the U.S., the ITDP program bridges the gap between dental education systems. You'll need passing scores on the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE).
The Advanced Dental Admissions Test (ADAT) is recommended, but not required. If you're an international applicant, you'll also need to submit TOEFL scores.
Tips for Getting into Michigan Dentistry
Applying to dental school is competitive, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of getting into the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. While the admissions committee reviews each applicant holistically, here are some key areas to focus on:
Ace Your Academics
Strong academics are the foundation of a successful dental school application. Strive for a high GPA, particularly in science courses. A competitive DAT score is also essential. Dedicate ample time to study and consider using DAT and OAT Classes or practice tests to boost your performance.
Show Your Passion for Dentistry
Dental schools want students who are genuinely passionate about the field. Demonstrate your interest through dental shadowing experiences (Michigan requires at least 100 hours completed at the time of application), volunteering at dental clinics, or participating in dental research. These experiences give you valuable insights into the life of a dentist.
Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Michigan requires three letters of recommendation: two from science professors who taught and graded you at the university level, and one from an evaluator of your choice. A qualifying pre-health committee letter may substitute for the three individual letters. An optional fourth letter is accepted.
Prepare for Your Interview
If you receive an interview invitation, prepare thoroughly. The virtual Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format requires you to think on your feet and communicate effectively. Practice responding to various scenarios and ethical questions related to dentistry. Research the school's values and mission, and be ready to explain why you want to be a Wolverine dentist.
Career Outcomes and Opportunities
Michigan DDS graduates pursue careers in general dentistry, specialty training, academia, research, public health, and other areas of oral healthcare.
Diverse Career Paths for Dental Professionals
Graduates secure positions in private practices, academic institutions, public health agencies, and research organizations. Alumni have become successful general dentists, specialists, educators, researchers, and leaders in the dental field.
Residency Programs
For those interested in specializing, the school offers residency programs in various dental fields. These programs provide advanced training and expertise in endodontics, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery, opening doors to rewarding careers in specialized dental practice or academia.
Frequently Asked Questions — University of Michigan School of Dentistry
What is the acceptance rate at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry?
Michigan's 2025 entering class had 1,908 applications and 109 students enrolled.
What GPA do you need for Michigan dental school?
Admitted students in the 2025 entering class had an average GPA of 3.82, with strong performance in science coursework.
What DAT score do you need for University of Michigan?
Michigan does not publish a minimum DAT score or cutoff. The school states that scores close to the average of its most recent entering class are considered competitive. Michigan currently reports an average DAT score of 22 for the 2025 entering class.
How hard is it to get into Michigan dental school?
Michigan is highly competitive. Strong academics, DAT scores, shadowing hours, and letters of recommendation are all essential components of a successful application.
What is the class size at Michigan dental school?
The DDS program enrolled 109 students in the 2025 entering class.
Join the Michigan Dental Family
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is a launching pad for successful dental careers. With a strong reputation and a dedication to excellence, Michigan prepares you for a fulfilling future in the field. If you're ready to take the next step, explore the school's website and contact the admissions team to learn more.
If you're preparing for the DAT, the DAT Destroyer series and Dr. Jim Romano's preparation resources have helped students build the knowledge and problem-solving skills needed for success on the exam.
👉 What is the DAT? Understanding the Dental Admission Test
Students comparing top dental schools often also review programs such as the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, UCLA School of Dentistry, and Columbia University College of Dental Medicine to better understand differences in admissions standards.
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