The hardest dental schools to get into in the United States
The hardest dental schools to get into in the United States are typically the ones with the most competitive admissions statistics—high GPA and DAT score requirements, low acceptance rates, and strong national reputations. Here are some of the most selective dental schools:
Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Acceptance rate: ~3%
Average GPA: 3.8+
Average DAT: 22–23
Known for: Ivy League prestige, dual-degree options (DMD/PhD), research focus
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
Acceptance rate: ~4%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT: 22+
Known for: Public health emphasis, clinical rigor, and NIH research funding
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry
Acceptance rate: ~4–5%
Average GPA: 3.75+
Average DAT: 22+
Known for: Top-tier clinical training and research
Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
Acceptance rate: ~5%
Average GPA: 3.75+
Average DAT: 22–23
Known for: Ivy League academics and integration with medical curriculum
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (UPenn)
Acceptance rate: ~5–6%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT: 21–23
Known for: Research excellence and interdisciplinary focus
New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry
While NYU accepts more students (largest dental school), the sheer number of applicants makes it competitive at the top tiers
Average GPA: 3.5–3.7
Average DAT: 20–21
Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Acceptance rate: ~5–6%
Average GPA: 3.6–3.7
Average DAT: 21–22
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Acceptance rate: ~5%
Average GPA: 3.7–3.8
Average DAT: 22+
Known for: Strong national rankings, research and clinical training
These schools are highly selective not only due to academic metrics but also because of holistic evaluations that include leadership, volunteer work, personal statements, and interviews. Top applicants often apply to 10–15 schools to maximize their chances.
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