Big Changes to DAT Scoring in 2025: What Pre-Dents Need to Know
The American Dental Association (ADA) has announced a major update to the scoring system of the Dental Admission Test (DAT), set to take effect in 2025. For years, the DAT has been a key metric in dental school admissions, and any change to how scores are calculated or reported can have significant implications for pre-dental students, advisors, and admissions committees alike.
If you're preparing to take the DAT soon—or advising someone who is—here’s everything you need to know about the new scoring format, how it differs from the old system, and what it means for your dental school application strategy.
What’s Changing in DAT Scoring?
1. Removal of the "Survey of the Natural Sciences" Score
In the old format, students received a composite score called "Survey of the Natural Sciences," which was the average of the Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry section scores. As of 2025, this score will no longer be reported.
2. Introduction of Standalone Science Section Scores
Instead of a single composite for the sciences, each of the following will now be scored and reported individually:
Biology
General Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
This change allows for more granularity in evaluating a student’s strengths and weaknesses across the sciences.
3. Total Science Score Still Reported
While the Survey of Natural Sciences is gone, the Total Science (TS) score remains. It is still calculated based on the number of correct answers across all three science sections but will not be a simple average of the three individual scores. Admissions committees may still rely on this number as a high-level indicator of scientific aptitude.
4. Academic Average (AA) Is Still King
The Academic Average, which is the mean of five sections (Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Quantitative Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension), remains unchanged. It’s still the most heavily weighted score for many dental schools.
Why These Changes Matter
More Transparent Evaluation:
Previously, students who excelled in one science subject but struggled in another could see their overall science score skewed. Now, admissions committees can assess applicants in more detail, identifying whether someone’s strength lies in, say, Organic Chemistry versus Biology.
Targeted Study Strategies:
Knowing that each science section will be independently evaluated may influence how students study. A more balanced approach across all science disciplines will be more important than ever.
Changes in Admissions Weighting:
Dental schools may start shifting how they interpret DAT scores. Some may place increased emphasis on specific science sections, especially if they align with prerequisites or perceived indicators of academic readiness.
How Should You Adapt?
Don’t Neglect Any Science Section: With each science subject now standing on its own, you can’t afford to "carry" a weaker section with two stronger ones.
Emphasize Balance: While boosting your AA remains crucial, balanced prep across all five tested areas (including QR and RC) will serve you well under the new scoring structure.
Watch for School-Specific Updates: Individual dental schools may release guidance on how they’ll weigh the new scores. Check their admissions pages or reach out directly to admissions advisors.
Final Thoughts
The updated DAT scoring format is designed to provide a more detailed and holistic view of applicants’ academic strengths. While it may feel like a curveball, it’s actually an opportunity—especially for students who excel in specific sciences or who may have been held back by a lower composite score in the past.
If you’re preparing for the DAT in 2025 or beyond, now’s the time to update your study strategy and stay informed. At Dental School Declassified, we’re here to help you navigate these changes with personalized tutoring, expert advising, and real-time insights from top-scoring dentists.
Need Help With Your DAT Prep?
We offer 1:1 tutoring, personalized study plans, and expert support from licensed dentists who scored in the 98th percentile or higher. Book a consult or explore our programs today!
