Is the PAT Really That Important for Dental School Admissions? Let’s Break It Down
If you're preparing for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), you've likely come across the Perceptual Ability Test (PAT) section—and maybe wondered, "How important is this really?" After all, it’s the only section on the DAT that doesn’t involve science, reading, or math.
So, is the PAT just a formality—or does it actually matter for dental school admissions?
Let’s break it down.
What Is the PAT Section of the DAT?
The Perceptual Ability Test evaluates your spatial reasoning, 2D and 3D visualization skills, and ability to mentally manipulate objects. It includes six subsections:
Apertures (Keyholes)
View Recognition (Top-Front-End)
Angle Ranking
Hole Punching
Cube Counting
Pattern Folding
🧠 These skills are surprisingly relevant to dentistry—think reading radiographs, prepping teeth, or navigating tight spaces in a patient’s mouth.
How Much Does the PAT Score Matter?
1. Yes, It’s Part of Your Academic Average (Kind Of)
While the PAT score isn’t included in your Academic Average (AA)—which combines scores from Biology, Chemistry, Reading, QR, and OChem—it’s still a standalone score that admissions committees see.
2. Some Schools Do Care—A Lot
Certain dental schools weigh PAT scores more heavily because of its direct correlation to hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and visual reasoning—skills you’ll use every day as a dentist.
In fact, schools like the University of Detroit Mercy and Midwestern University have stated they place extra emphasis on the PAT.
🏫 Pro Tip: Always check individual dental school websites or the ADEA Official Guide for school-specific PAT preferences.
What Is a Competitive PAT Score?
While DAT scores range from 1 to 30, a PAT score of 20 or above is typically considered competitive. Here’s a rough breakdown:
23–30: Excellent
20–22: Competitive
18–19: Below average, but may be fine if other sections are strong
17 or below: Consider retaking the DAT
What If You’re Strong in Sciences but Weak in PAT?
Will a low PAT score ruin your chances?
Not necessarily—but it could hurt if:
You're applying to schools that prioritize PAT scores
Your manual dexterity or spatial reasoning skills are in question
You have an otherwise average or borderline application
In contrast, a strong PAT score can boost your application, especially if your GPA or science scores aren’t perfect. It shows you're visually skilled and mentally agile—a great combo for dentistry.
How to Improve Your PAT Score (Without Burning Out)
Practice with purpose – Don’t just grind random questions. Use proven strategies.
Focus on weakest subsections – Mastering one area at a time is more effective.
Use platforms like DATBooster or DATBootcamp – These offer high-yield PAT tools and tutorials.
Start early – PAT improvement takes time and consistent practice.
Final Thoughts: Is the PAT Worth Worrying About?
Yes—and no.
✅ Yes, it’s important enough to prepare for seriously.
❌ No, it’s not the only thing that matters in admissions.
Think of the PAT as a valuable piece of your DAT puzzle—one that, when done well, can help your application stand out and show you're prepared for the visual-spatial demands of dental school.
Need Help With PAT Strategy?
At Dental School Declassified, our elite tutors specialize in high-scoring PAT strategies that help students go from stuck to confident. Whether you're aiming to break 20 or get into the 90th percentile, we can help you get there.
👉 Book a session today or check out our free PAT tips and resources here in the blog.
