A Deeper Dive Into The Hardest Dental Schools to Get Into in the U.S.
A Deeper Dive Into The Hardest Dental Schools to Get Into in the U.S.
Dental school admissions in the United States are highly competitive, but a few institutions stand out for their exceptionally low acceptance rates, rigorous academic requirements, and national reputations. These top-tier programs often receive thousands of applications for just a few dozen spots. For aspiring dentists, these schools represent both the pinnacle of achievement and some of the steepest hurdles in the admissions process.
Here are the most difficult U.S. dental schools to get into, based on acceptance rate, average GPA and Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores, reputation, and research strength.
1. Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Located in Boston and affiliated with Harvard Medical School, HSDM is one of the most prestigious dental schools globally.
Acceptance Rate: ~3%
Average GPA: 3.85+
Average DAT Score: 22–23
Class Size: About 35 students
Highlights: Students take courses alongside medical students in their first two years, receive extensive research training, and have access to dual-degree opportunities such as DMD/MPH and DMD/PhD.
Getting into HSDM is not just about scores; the admissions team seeks well-rounded candidates with strong leadership qualities, research experience, and a demonstrated commitment to underserved communities.
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
UCSF is consistently ranked among the top dental schools in the U.S. and is part of the UC medical system.
Acceptance Rate: ~4%
Average GPA: 3.75–3.85
Average DAT Score: 22+
Class Size: Around 88 students
Highlights: UCSF emphasizes public health dentistry, biomedical research, and interdisciplinary education. It has a strong NIH funding record and attracts applicants with both academic excellence and community service backgrounds.
3. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry
As a leading public dental school, UCLA offers strong clinical and research training.
Acceptance Rate: 4–5%
Average GPA: 3.75+
Average DAT Score: 22–23
Class Size: Approximately 88 students
Highlights: UCLA combines research strength with clinical rigor and provides access to one of the largest health science campuses in the U.S.
Admission is highly competitive due to its strong academic programs, diverse clinical exposure, and location in Los Angeles.
4. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Located in New York City and affiliated with Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia’s dental program offers Ivy League training with a strong research and clinical component.
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Average GPA: 3.75–3.85
Average DAT Score: 22–23
Class Size: Around 85 students
Highlights: Columbia offers an integrated curriculum with the medical school, research opportunities, and global outreach programs.
5. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (Penn Dental)
UPenn offers one of the oldest and most respected dental programs in the country.
Acceptance Rate: ~5–6%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT Score: 21–23
Class Size: Around 130 students
Highlights: Known for its research facilities, global programs, and interdisciplinary opportunities with Penn’s Wharton and medical schools.
6. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Located in downtown Boston, Tufts is known for its rigorous clinical programs and international diversity.
Acceptance Rate: ~6%
Average GPA: 3.6–3.7
Average DAT Score: 21–22
Class Size: Over 200 students
Highlights: One of the largest dental schools in the country, Tufts offers extensive patient care training and community outreach.
Despite its large class size, Tufts is still selective due to the volume of high-caliber applicants.
7. University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Ranked among the top public dental schools nationally, Michigan offers exceptional research and clinical training.
Acceptance Rate: ~5%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT Score: 22+
Class Size: About 100 students
Highlights: The school consistently ranks in the top five for dental research funding and has a strong alumni network.
8. New York University College of Dentistry (NYUCD)
Though NYU accepts more students than most schools, it is still very competitive at the top tier.
Acceptance Rate: ~10%
Average GPA: 3.5–3.7
Average DAT Score: 20–21
Class Size: Over 300 students
Highlights: The largest dental school in the U.S., NYUCD offers unmatched clinical experience in a diverse urban setting.
Key Takeaways: What Makes These Schools So Competitive?
Academic Rigor: Top schools require high GPAs and DAT scores—usually well above national averages.
Research Experience: Many top applicants come with extensive lab and publication experience.
Leadership & Volunteerism: Dental schools value applicants with community involvement and leadership roles, especially in health-related outreach.
Personal Fit: Interviews, essays, and letters of recommendation play a crucial role in determining if a candidate fits the mission and values of the institution.
Final Word
These dental schools are among the most difficult to gain admission to, not just for their academic thresholds but also for their commitment to building future leaders in dentistry. Applicants aiming for these schools should focus on academic excellence, meaningful clinical experience, and a compelling narrative about why they want to serve in the dental profession.
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