Hardest Dental Schools to Get Into in the U.S. (2025): Rankings, DAT Scores, GPA Cutoffs, and Acceptance Rates
Hardest Dental Schools to Get Into in the U.S. (2025): Rankings, DAT Scores, GPA Cutoffs, and Acceptance Rates
If you're aiming to become a dentist in the United States, getting into dental school is one of the most challenging and competitive parts of the journey. But not all dental programs are created equal. Some schools are far more selective than others, demanding near-perfect academic records, exceptional Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores, and a strong track record of leadership, research, and community service.
This comprehensive guide outlines the hardest dental schools to get into in 2025, based on the latest available data. We analyze each school’s acceptance rate, average GPA, average DAT score, and institutional prestige—so you can better understand where you stand and how to strengthen your application.
Why Are Some Dental Schools Harder to Get Into?
Dental schools with lower acceptance rates typically:
Receive thousands of applications annually
Have limited class sizes
Look for candidates with near-perfect academic records
Require competitive DAT scores (usually 21 and above)
Favor applicants with research, clinical, and leadership experience
Top-ranked schools are also often affiliated with major research universities or medical centers, making them highly appealing to the country’s top pre-dental students.
1. Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Located in Boston and part of Harvard Medical School, HSDM is the gold standard in dental education.
Acceptance Rate: ~3%
Average GPA: 3.85+
Average DAT Score: 22–23
Class Size: About 35 students
Known For: Its Ivy League prestige, focus on academic research, and integrated curriculum with Harvard Medical School.
Harvard seeks future leaders in clinical care and research. You’ll need more than numbers—your essays, recommendations, and interview must shine.
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
A top public dental school, UCSF excels in clinical education, innovation, and community outreach.
Acceptance Rate: ~4%
Average GPA: 3.75–3.85
Average DAT Score: 22+
Class Size: ~88 students
Strengths: Public health focus, NIH funding, commitment to underserved communities.
The school’s San Francisco location and reputation for research draw applicants nationwide.
3. UCLA School of Dentistry
UCLA’s dental program is consistently ranked in the top 10 in the U.S.
Acceptance Rate: ~4–5%
Average GPA: 3.75+
Average DAT Score: 22–23
Class Size: ~88 students
What Stands Out: West Coast location, strong research, and medical school integration.
Applicants should demonstrate academic strength and deep involvement in clinical or research work.
4. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
One of the few Ivy League dental programs, Columbia provides an elite dental education in New York City.
Acceptance Rate: ~5%
Average GPA: 3.75–3.85
Average DAT Score: 22–23
Class Size: ~85 students
Highlights: Dual-degree options, clinical rotations in underserved communities, and integration with Columbia’s medical campus.
5. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (Penn Dental)
Penn Dental is known for academic rigor and global outreach.
Acceptance Rate: ~5–6%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT Score: 21–23
Class Size: ~130 students
Notable Traits: Emphasis on interdisciplinary study, advanced technology in dental practice, and ties to Wharton and Penn Med.
6. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Located in downtown Boston, Tufts is one of the largest and most clinically diverse programs.
Acceptance Rate: ~6%
Average GPA: 3.6–3.7
Average DAT Score: 21–22
Class Size: ~200 students
What Makes It Competitive: Extensive patient exposure, global dental programs, and strong faculty mentorship.
Despite a larger class size, Tufts remains very selective due to its reputation and location.
7. University of Michigan School of Dentistry
One of the most respected public dental schools in the nation.
Acceptance Rate: ~5%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT Score: 22+
Class Size: ~100 students
Advantages: Research funding, hands-on simulation labs, and global health initiatives.
Michigan attracts applicants nationwide due to its high rankings and research-first culture.
8. New York University College of Dentistry (NYUCD)
The largest dental school in the U.S., NYUCD offers incredible clinical exposure.
Acceptance Rate: ~10%
Average GPA: 3.5–3.7
Average DAT Score: 20–21
Class Size: 300+ students
Unique Offerings: Extensive patient volume, diverse clinical rotations, and a prime Manhattan location.
Though NYU accepts more students, the top of its applicant pool is highly competitive.
Comparison Table: Most Competitive Dental Schools (2025)
How to Get Into the Top Dental Schools
To have a competitive application, you’ll need:
GPA above 3.7 (especially in science courses)
DAT score of 21 or higher, with strong scores in PAT, RC, and QR
Experience in dental offices or shadowing professionals
Research background (especially at schools like Harvard, UCSF, or Michigan)
Community service, ideally in public health or underserved areas
Strong personal statement and recommendation letters
Conclusion
Applying to one of the hardest dental schools in the U.S. requires more than just top test scores. These schools are looking for leaders, thinkers, and compassionate individuals ready to push the boundaries of dentistry and healthcare. If your goal is to attend one of these institutions, it’s essential to plan early, build a well-rounded application, and apply strategically.
