University of Utah School of Dentistry — DAT Scores, Requirements and Admissions 2026
Updated: October 14, 2026
The University of Utah School of Dentistry is one of the newest and most rapidly growing dental schools in the United States. Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, the school is part of the University of Utah Health system and is committed to training the next generation of dentists to serve Utah and the surrounding Mountain West region.
The University of Utah School of Dentistry opened its doors in 2013 and has quickly established itself as a strong regional institution with a focus on community-based care, research, and expanding access to oral health services across Utah and neighboring states.
DAT Expectations at the University of Utah School of Dentistry
The University of Utah School of Dentistry evaluates DAT scores as part of a holistic application review. Strong scores across all sections are expected.
The school requires a minimum score of 380 in every DAT section. It reports the following averages for its current first-year class:
- Academic Average (AA): 470
- Total Science / Survey of Natural Sciences: 480
- Perceptual Ability (PAT): 480
Students preparing for the University of Utah 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 Utah School of Dentistry Stands Out
- One of the newest dental schools in the US — modern facilities and curriculum
- Part of the University of Utah Health system with strong interdisciplinary collaboration
- Strong focus on serving Utah and the Mountain West region
- Exceptional value for Utah residents
- Community-based clinical training with broad patient exposure
- Growing research programs and faculty expertise
Dental Programs at the University of Utah School of Dentistry
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
Post-Graduate Programs
- General Practice Residency
University of Utah Dental School Admissions
Application Timeline
- Applications must be filed between June 2 (or the opening of AADSAS) and October 15 of the preceding academic year for fall entry.
- Early application is strongly encouraged.
- Completed applications are reviewed, and selected applicants are invited to in-person interviews.
Required Materials
- AADSAS application with personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- DAT scores and official Casper situational judgment test results
Prerequisite Coursework Requirements
All applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited United States college or university.
Required Courses
- Anatomy (Human or Comparative): 3 semester hours
- Biochemistry: 3 semester hours
- Biology: 6 semester hours
- General/Inorganic Chemistry: 8 semester hours
- Organic Chemistry: 6 semester hours
- English Composition/Technical Writing: 6 semester hours
- Physics: 6 semester hours
- Physiology: 3 semester hours
- Microbiology: 3 semester hours
- Microbiology Lab: 1 semester hour
GPA Review Includes
- Overall GPA (minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0)
- Science GPA
- Grade trends and academic rigor
- Institution level and course difficulty
Shadowing Requirement
At least 100 hours of dental shadowing are required. The school recommends shadowing a minimum of four different dentists.
Boosting Your Chances of Acceptance at University of Utah Dentistry
Earn a Competitive DAT Score
Use concept-driven materials like the DAT Destroyer to strengthen Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Quantitative Reasoning. DAT Destroyer does not cover Perceptual Ability or Reading Comprehension.
Demonstrate Community Service
The University of Utah values applicants with a strong commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities across Utah and the Mountain West.
Apply Early
The University of Utah School of Dentistry strongly encourages early application.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Clearly articulate your passion for dentistry and your connection to Utah and the Mountain West region.
Recommended Personal Statement Help: EduWritingServices
DAT Prep Support for University of Utah Applicants
DAT Destroyer
Advanced practice in Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Math:
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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 Utah School of Dentistry
Is the University of Utah a good dental school?
Yes — the University of Utah School of Dentistry is a modern, growing institution with strong clinical training, community focus, and excellent value for Utah residents.
What DAT score do I need for University of Utah Dentistry?
The school requires a minimum score of 380 in every DAT section. Its reported current first-year class averages are 470 Academic Average, 480 Perceptual Ability, and 480 Survey of Natural Sciences. These averages are not minimum requirements or guarantees of admission.
What GPA does University of Utah look for?
Both overall and science GPA are reviewed holistically. The school requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 in both categories. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission.
Does University of Utah prefer Utah residents?
Utah residents pay lower tuition than non-resident students. Applicants should review the school's published residency and eligibility requirements.
Is shadowing required?
Yes. At least 100 hours of dental shadowing are required. The school recommends shadowing a minimum of four different dentists.
When did the University of Utah School of Dentistry open?
The University of Utah School of Dentistry welcomed its inaugural class in 2013, making it one of the newest dental schools in the United States.
Start Your DAT Preparation
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Math Destroyer
General Chemistry Destroyer
Organic Chemistry Odyssey
Dr. Jim Romano Biology Review Book
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