A 3.5 GPA is generally considered to be a good enough GPA for dental school, but admission requirements vary among different schools. Other factors, such as extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and test scores, can also play a role in the admissions process.
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A 3.5 GPA is generally considered to be a good enough GPA for dental school, but it’s important to note that admission requirements vary among different schools. It’s always best to research the specific requirements of the schools you are interested in applying to. In addition to GPA, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and test scores can also play a role in the admissions process.
According to the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), the average GPA of applicants accepted into dental school in 2019 was 3.54. This means that a 3.5 GPA puts you in a competitive position to apply to dental schools. However, it’s important to note that a higher GPA gives you an advantage in the application process.
In addition to academic performance, dental schools also look for well-rounded applicants who have shown leadership skills and a commitment to serving others. This can include volunteering at a dental clinic, participating in community service projects, and pursuing research opportunities.
Janet Hulstrand, author of “Turning Point: Pivotal Moments in the Lives of America’s Celebrities,” once said, “Success is not created by one factor alone, but by many factors coming together all at once.” This is true for dental school admissions as well. A high GPA is important, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
Here’s a table summarizing the average GPA of applicants accepted into dental schools in the United States in 2019:
| Dental School | Average GPA of Accepted Applicants |
|---|---|
| Columbia University College of Dental Medicine | 3.67 |
| Harvard School of Dental Medicine | 3.79 |
| University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry | 3.54 |
| University of Michigan School of Dentistry | 3.57 |
| University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine | 3.68 |
Keep in mind that these numbers are just averages and do not guarantee acceptance into a specific dental school. Each school has its own unique admissions process and requirements. It’s important to focus on putting together a strong application that showcases your strengths, experiences, and potential as a dental student.
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Although a dental school will be more interested in your academic performance in science courses, it’s your overall GPA that matters most. Aim for a grade point average of 3.5 or higher.
However, if we look at the average GPA, 3.5 is the best overall. In fact, having a 3.5 above GPA is far better and will be more beneficial to get matriculated into dental school. The higher the GPA, the higher your chances of admission will be.
The ideal dental school applicant will have a 3.5 cumulative GPA or higher.
A GPA of 3.6 will suffice by dental school standards, because while the minimum GPA requirement varies by institution, it typically ranges between 3.0-3.5, which you would pass regardless.
Watch a video on the subject
In this YouTube video, Eli shares his journey as a non-traditional dental student and how he overcame obstacles, including a low GPA in undergrad, to get into dental school. He emphasizes the value of post-bac and master’s programs for those who need to improve their academic performance. Additionally, he encourages aspiring dental students to apply to a wide range of schools and use resources like the Dental School Explorer to determine where they match up compared to other applicants. The speaker’s goal is to motivate and inspire more diversity in the dental field and build trust in the healthcare system.