Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry — DAT Scores, Requirements and Admissions 2026
The Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry is one of the oldest and most respected dental schools in the United States, located in Richmond, Virginia. As part of VCU Health, the school offers students access to a large and diverse patient population, strong clinical training, and a research-intensive environment.
The program is competitive, with accepted students typically presenting DAT scores around 20–22 on the old scale (approximately 400–440 on the new 200–600 scale) and a GPA near 3.4–3.6.
Students who succeed at VCU Dentistry demonstrate solid academic preparation, competitive DAT scores, and a commitment to serving diverse communities.
DAT Expectations at VCU School of Dentistry
VCU is competitive among Virginia dental schools and draws applicants from across the country. Applicants are expected to present strong scores across all DAT sections.
Based on recent entering class data, competitive applicants generally present:
- Academic Average (AA): ~20–22 (old scale) / approximately 400–440 (new 200–600 scale)
- Total Science (TS): ~20–22 (old scale) / approximately 400–440 (new 200–600 scale)
- Perceptual Ability Test (PAT): typically 390+ on the new scale
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VCU Dental School — Quick Stats
Average DAT: ~20–22 (old scale) / ~400–440 (new scale)
GPA: ~3.4–3.6
Application: AADSAS
Admissions: Rolling
Location: Richmond, Virginia
What DAT Score Do You Need for VCU Dental School?
Most successful applicants to VCU School of Dentistry present an Academic Average (AA) of 20–22 on the old DAT scale, which corresponds to approximately 400–440 on the new 200–600 scale. Strong performance across all sections — especially the sciences — is essential to be competitive.
| DAT Section | Competitive Score for VCU (200–600 scale) |
|---|---|
| Academic Average (AA) | 400–440+ |
| Total Science (TS) | 400–440+ |
| Perceptual Ability (PAT) | 390+ |
| Biology | 390+ |
| General Chemistry | 390+ |
| Organic Chemistry | 390+ |
Why VCU School of Dentistry Stands Out
- One of the oldest dental schools in the United States, founded in 1893
- Located in Richmond, Virginia with access to a large and diverse urban patient population
- Part of VCU Health — one of the largest academic medical centers in Virginia
- Strong emphasis on community health and underserved populations
- Integrated curriculum combining early clinical exposure with foundational science
- Active research programs across multiple dental specialties
- Strong alumni network across Virginia and nationally
Dental Programs at VCU School of Dentistry
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Combined DDS/PhD program
- Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates
Post-Graduate and Specialty Programs
- Orthodontics
- Periodontics
- Endodontics
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Prosthodontics
- General Practice Residency
VCU Dentistry Admissions
Application Timeline
- Applications open through AADSAS in May
- Early submission strongly recommended — rolling admissions
- Interviews conducted on a rolling basis through the fall
- First offers of admission typically extended in December
Required Materials
- AADSAS application with personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- DAT scores
Prerequisite Coursework Requirements
Applicants must meet VCU dental school requirements including the following prerequisite courses:
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
- Science GPA (3.4 or higher is generally competitive)
- Grade trends and academic rigor
Shadowing Requirement
Meaningful dental shadowing experience is required. A minimum of 100 hours is recommended.
Boosting Your Chances of Acceptance at VCU Dentistry
Earn a Competitive DAT Score
Use concept-driven materials like the DAT Destroyer to build mastery across all sections.
Demonstrate Community Service
VCU places strong emphasis on community health experience. Volunteer work in underserved settings strengthens your application significantly.
Apply Early
VCU uses rolling admissions — earlier applications have a significant advantage.
Understand the Residency Factor
VCU gives preference to Virginia residents, making admission more competitive for out-of-state applicants.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Clearly articulate your passion for dentistry and how VCU's community-focused mission aligns with your goals.
Recommended Personal Statement Help: EduWritingServices
DAT Prep Support for VCU Dentistry Applicants
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Frequently Asked Questions — VCU School of Dentistry
Is VCU a good dental school?
Yes — VCU School of Dentistry is one of the oldest and most respected dental schools in the country, known for its strong clinical training, research programs, and community health focus.
What DAT score do I need for VCU Dental School?
Competitive applicants typically present an AA of 20–22 on the old scale / 400–440 on the new scale.
What GPA does VCU Dentistry look for?
A science GPA of 3.4 or higher is generally competitive. Both overall and science GPA are reviewed holistically.
Is shadowing required for VCU Dentistry?
Yes — meaningful dental shadowing is required. At least 100 hours is recommended.
Does VCU Dental School prefer Virginia residents?
Yes — VCU gives preference to Virginia residents, making admission more competitive for out-of-state applicants.
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