University of Utah School of Dentistry — DAT Scores, Requirements and Admissions 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.
Based on recent entering class data, competitive applicants generally present:
- Academic Average (AA): 19–22 (old scale) / approximately 390–440 (new 200–600 scale)
- Total Science (TS): 19–22 (old scale) / approximately 390–440 (new 200–600 scale)
- Perceptual Ability Test (PAT): competitive scores across all sections
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 Medicine (DMD)
Post-Graduate Programs
- General Practice Residency
- Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
University of Utah Dental School Admissions
Application Timeline
- Applications open through AADSAS in May
- Early submission strongly recommended — rolling admissions
- Utah residents given priority consideration
- 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 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework. A bachelor's degree is strongly preferred.
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 (strongly recommended)
GPA Review Includes
- Overall GPA (competitive applicants typically 3.3 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 University of Utah Dentistry
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
The University of Utah values applicants with a strong commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities across Utah and the Mountain West.
Apply Early
Rolling admissions means earlier applications have a significant advantage.
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:
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 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?
Competitive applicants typically present an AA of 19–22 on the old scale / approximately 390–440 on the new 200–600 scale.
What GPA does University of Utah look for?
Both overall and science GPA are reviewed holistically. Competitive applicants typically present a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
Does University of Utah prefer Utah residents?
Yes — as a public university, the University of Utah gives priority to Utah residents and offers significantly reduced tuition for in-state students.
Is shadowing required?
Yes — meaningful dental shadowing is required. At least 100 hours is recommended with exposure to multiple dental settings.
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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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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