PRE-DENTAL INFORMATION

The basic courses required for entering into dental school are:

• One year of Biology(Biol 101, 101L and Biol 252 or 276 plus lab)
• Two years of Chemistry (Chem 101, 102, 241, 261, and 262 plus labs)
• One year of Physics (Phys 104 and 105)

***The UNC Dental School requires neither the organic chemistry labs nor the physics lab for admission, but it is best to take them because all other dental schools do require them.

College Major: There is no specific major that is required, or that is "best" to pursue. Dental schools are looking for well-educated and well-rounded individuals.

The DAT: Most dental schools require the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT). The usual time to take it is in the spring semester of the Junior year. Students should prepare for this test because it has a section on perception of shapes. The DAT is the one item that can be used to compare applicants from different schools. The test is given at Sylvan Test Centers by appointment.

Application: Most dental schools accept applications through the American Association of Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS). This application should be submitted in the summer before your last year in college.

Extracurricular activities: Extracurriculars are a very important part of the applicant's materials. Most dental schools place emphasis on volunteer community service. Some volunteer experience in a  dental setting is a must. A recommendation from a dentist is a plus.  UNC has a chapter of Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED) an honorary pre-professional society with many service opportunities.  UNC also has a very active pre-dental club (DDS).

Other web sites of interest for dentistry:

UNC Dental School
American Dental Association
Pre-Dental Honor Society (DDS)