Dentistry (DDS/DMS)

Sample 4 Year Plan

    • Declare a major and identify yourself as a pre-health profession student on the major declaration form.
    • Make an appointment/get to know your advisors. Discuss your academic game plan. Check in regularly to discuss your academic progress.
    • Begin taking your basic science courses.
    • Get involved with volunteer and service opportunities (campus and community).
    • Explore opportunities to shadow a dentist.
    • Continue with your sequence of courses.
    • Stay involved in extracurricular activities (shadowing, service, volunteering). Consider leadership positions in these groups.
    • Visit your professors during office hours (You will need letters of recommendation).
    • Visit Health Professions Advising to begin assessing competitiveness.
    • Identify the dentistry programs that you want to apply to. Develop your DAT preparation plan.
    • Talk to your advisors about competitiveness.
    • Register, study, and take the DAT (Don't miss the deadlines!).
    • Identify three to five individuals to write your letters of recommendation (Fall).
    • Complete and submit your application to AADSAS (Associated American Dental Schools Application Service) (Summer).
    • Continue engaging in activities.
    • Meet with your advisor.
    • Get a degree audit and apply for graduation.
    • Ensure all letters of evaluation have been submitted.
    • Respond promptly to requests for secondary applications.
    • Wait to be contacted for interviews from dental schools.
    • Explore sources for financial aid.
    • Discuss alternative plans with your advisor if necessary.
    • Finish your degree requirements and graduate.