The test measures academic and perceptual skills along with the ability to comprehend scientific information. Studies indicate test scores and grades predict performance, according to the ADA, so selection committees use the test as a tool to determine an applicant's potential performance in a dental program. However, the ADA cautions the Dental Admission Test is only part of the selection process as dental education programs treat scores differently.
Anticipate the Dental Admission Test to have four sections: natural science, perceptual ability, reading comprehension and quantitative reasoning. Each section assesses a variety of sub skills. For instance, natural science has biology and general and organic chemistry questions. Perceptual ability measures aperture, cube counting and 3-D form development. Reading comprehension tests the ability to organize and analyze information in three reading passages. Quantitative reasoning features algebra, geometry, trigonometry and word problems.
Understand the Dental Admission Test registration and review can take several weeks, so schedule an appointment well in advance to ensure that dental schools receive scores by admission deadlines. Sign up 60 to 90 days prior to your preferred exam date, time or location to get the desired appointment. Testing typically lasts about four hours--90 minutes for the science section, 60 minutes for the perceptual and comprehension sections and 45 minutes for the math. Unofficial score reports are available upon completion, but allow three to four weeks for test to be audited and sent to dental schools.
Know that the Dental Admission Testing Program does not endorse any third-party test prep materials (courses, books or tutorials), nor does it have evidence as to the effectiveness of such materials, according to the ADA. Examinees that use test prep materials are encouraged to make sure the content aligns with current test objectives. In order to prepare, the ADA website provides a test guide, sample test items, software demos and links to reference texts.
Review Dental Admission Test procedures prior to the exam. Check the ADA website for maintenance blackout dates before registration. Make sure that the name on the test application is identical to the name listed on the two forms of identification that must be shown at exam time. Remember a middle initial is not the same as a full name. Keep it mind, it is possible to retake the test, but results from previous attempts are posted with recent scores.