University of Minnesota School of Dentistry — DAT Scores, Requirements and Admissions 2026
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is one of the leading public dental schools in the United States. Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, it is known for its strong clinical training, diverse patient population, and commitment to advancing oral health in underserved communities across the Midwest and beyond.
Students who thrive at Minnesota demonstrate strong academic preparation, a commitment to community service, and a genuine passion for improving access to dental care.
DAT Expectations at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Minnesota evaluates DAT scores as part of a holistic application review. Competitive applicants typically present solid scores across all sections with particular strength in the sciences.
Based on recent entering class data, competitive applicants to Minnesota generally present:
- Academic Average (AA): 19–21 (old scale) / approximately 390–420 (new 200–600 scale)
- Total Science (TS): 19–21 (old scale) / approximately 390–420 (new 200–600 scale)
- Perceptual Ability Test (PAT): competitive scores across all sections
Students preparing for Minnesota often rely on the DAT Destroyer, created by Dr. Jim Romano, to build the deep conceptual understanding required for competitive 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 the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Stands Out
- One of the top public dental schools in the United States
- Located in Minneapolis with access to a large and diverse patient population
- Exceptional value for Minnesota residents
- Strong emphasis on community service and access to care for underserved populations
- High-volume clinical training with broad exposure to dental specialties
- Robust research programs and interdisciplinary collaboration within the University of Minnesota health sciences
Dental Programs at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates
- Combined DDS/PhD program
- Dental Therapy program
- Dental Hygiene program
Post-Graduate and Specialty Programs
- Orthodontics
- Periodontics
- Endodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
- General Practice Residency
University of Minnesota 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 a minimum of 87 semester credits or 130 quarter credits of undergraduate coursework.
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 (recommended)
GPA Review Includes
- Overall GPA (minimum 2.5, competitive applicants typically 3.2 or higher)
- Science GPA
- 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 settings preferred.
Boosting Your Chances of Acceptance at Minnesota
Earn a Competitive DAT Score
Use concept-driven materials like the DAT Destroyer to build mastery across all sections of the DAT.
Demonstrate Community Service
Minnesota values applicants with a strong commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities. Volunteer and community health experience strengthens your application significantly.
Apply Early
Minnesota uses rolling admissions — earlier applications have a significant advantage.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Clearly articulate your passion for dentistry and how Minnesota's mission of expanding access to oral health care aligns with your goals.
Recommended Personal Statement Help: EduWritingServices
DAT Prep Support for Minnesota 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 — University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Is the University of Minnesota a good dental school?
Yes — the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is one of the top public dental schools in the United States, known for strong clinical training, community focus, and exceptional value for Minnesota residents.
What DAT score do I need for the University of Minnesota?
Competitive applicants typically present an AA of 19–21 on the old scale / approximately 390–420 on the new 200–600 scale. Strong performance across all sections is recommended.
What GPA does Minnesota look for?
The minimum GPA is 2.5, but competitive applicants typically present a science GPA of 3.2 or higher. Both overall and science GPA are reviewed holistically.
Is shadowing required?
Yes — meaningful dental shadowing is required. At least 100 hours is recommended with exposure to multiple dental settings.
Does Minnesota accept international students?
Yes, through the Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates.
Is Minnesota good for Midwest residents?
Yes — as a public university, Minnesota offers significantly reduced tuition for in-state residents, making it one of the best value dental schools in the Midwest.
Start Your DAT Preparation
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DAT Destroyer
Math Destroyer
General Chemistry Destroyer
Organic Chemistry Odyssey
Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book
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Ready to start studying? Follow Dr. Romano's 3-Month DAT Study Schedule (2026)
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