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Application Process
A complete Dental Application has three main parts. The American Association of Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS) main application, specific dental school supplemental materials, and Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores. Meeting with Marilyn Hoffman in the Pre-Dental Offices, Room 124 of Building 44, and she will provide you with the necessary materials and instruction to help you get started. Both Marilyn and her secretary Stella Pitt, are extremely experienced and are available to assist you throughout the application process.
THE APPLICATION
Most schools participate with AADSAS by accepting the general application provided through this organization. The AADSAS application can be obtained in the Prudential Office in a written form, or can be found on the internet in an electronic form at www.adea.org. The written form is usually available at the end of March, while the electronic form is available in mid April. Both are accepted beginning June 1st. It is wise to submit your application as early as possible because most schools follow a first come first serve philosophy.
Included with both applications are specific instructions that should be carefully read and understood before beginning your application. Whether you choose to use the electronic version or the written application, following these instruction with precision ensures that your application will be processed in a timely manner and that each dental school will understand the information as you wished to convey it. These instructions will be useful throughout the application process.
DENTAL SCHOOL SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL
Most dental schools require some basic supplemental materials such as application/processing fees, a photograph, a secondary application, and your DAT scores. The instructions that are included with the AADSAS application contain detailed information covering the materials each individual school requires, when they require it, and all of their final deadlines.
Another resource that is helpful in providing further information about each school in the form of short individual descriptions is the book ADEA Admission Requirements, United States and Canadian Dental Schools 2001-2002." It is a publication that is compiled by the American Association of Dental School (AADS) and also contains helpful statistical information as well as financial figures. This publication is available on the ADEA web site, through AADSAS, and usually in the pre-dental office.
DAT SCORES
DAT scores are as fundamental as your GPA in a dental application. DAT registration materials are available in the pre-dental office. This registration includes an area where you may indicate to which schools you would like your official DAT scores sent once you have completed the test. If you have already taken the test, you may request in written form that your official scores be sent for .00 per school by the ADA. Remember to include your full name, social security number, the date that you took the test, and the schools to which you would like your scores sent. Contact the ADA via their web site at http://www.ada.org or the address available in the AADSAS instructions.
CONCLUSION
One of the key elements of the application process is time management. All materials that are submitted in a timely fashion with accuracy and attention to detail, are most likely to be seen and considered first. With the large number of applicants and the relatively short time to review so many files and applications, your timing becomes crucial.
PS- An important reminder: Marilyn Hoffman and Stella Pitt are a great asset to all applicants. They have years of experience and are easy to talk with. Stella can be reached at 581-5744 to set up an appointment with Marilyn.
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