Research your academic options. Create a list of the schools you want to attend and investigate what specialty and master programs these schools offer. Ensure you have the prerequisite courses needed for the programs you want to apply. Also determine what scholarships and grants the schools offer to potential students.
Visit facilities and campuses before you expect to receive acceptance letters. While campus visits can cost money and time, many universities have virtual tours posted on their websites, including New York University College of Dentistry. Before heading out on a road tour to visit campuses, take the time to view virtual tours to narrow down the list of schools you want to visit in person. If possible, arrange to stay the night on campus to get a feel what the school is like not only during the day, but in the dark.
Dig deeper by asking questions. When visiting campuses and facilities, go beyond talking to the tour guide by speaking to current dental students. Ask what they like and don't like about the program, school, lab facilities and teaching staff. Sit in on a class and see the teaching style of professors or instructors.
Examine your finances. Not only will you need to cover tuition costs, but you'll have living expenses to contend with. If you are considering moving away from home, you'll need to factor in costs such as accommodation, transportation and food expenses. If costs are a serious factor in what school you are able to attend, consider staying at home, if there is an university near you with a dental school.