Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQ's
What is the difference between the DMD and DDS degree?
There is no difference between the two degrees. DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are equivalent degrees and are both dental diplomas. Some schools choose to award a DDS while others award a DMD.
What is OHSU's minimum GPA requirement?
OHSU does not have a minimum GPA requirement. However, applicants with science, required science (biology, chemistry and physics courses only) and overall GPA 's above a 3.0 have more competitive applications. Our entering class GPA's (science, required science and overall) are generally above a 3.5.
Is a baccalaureate degree required to gain admission to OHSU?
OHSU does not require a baccalaureate degree for admission, however preference is given to those applicants that indicate the completion of a degree prior to matriculation.
Is there a statute of limitation on course work accepted by OHSU?
OHSU currently does not have a statute of limitation on course work. We do highly recommend to applicants that have been out of school for an extended period of time, to enroll in additional science courses, which will strengthen their foundation of basic science, as well as familiarize themselves with contemporary scientific principles.
Is there a limit on the number of community college credit hours OHSU accepts?
OHSU does not limit the number of credit hours taken at the community college level. Although it is highly recommended that you complete the required basic science courses at a four-year university.
Is there a limit on the number of courses that can be taken as Pass/No Pass or a limit on the number of times you can withdraw from courses?
As a general rule, all coursework should be taken for a letter grade instead of Pass/No Pass, unless there is no other grading option offered. This is particularly important for your science courses. In addition, you should avoid withdrawing from courses if at all possible. A few course withdrawals on your academic record will be tolerated, however, keep in mind that admissions officers look for patterns (i.e. is the applicant consistently withdrawing from one course per term, or only in courses in a certain subject area).
I noticed that OHSU added basic science pre-requisite courses. Why?
Biochemistry, Anatomy and Physiology became required courses for those dental students matriculating in the fall of 2003. The Admissions Committee feels that Biochemistry and Anatomy and Physiology will better prepare students for the dental school curriculum, as well as the National Dental Board Examinations.
Are labs required in my pre-requisite science courses?
OHSU requires that you take all labs that correspond with basic science pre-requisite courses with the exception of Biochemistry, where a lab course is highly recommended. All lab courses must be completed for a letter grade.
What is OHSU's minimum DAT requirement?
OHSU has established a minimum DAT score of 15 in each DAT category. Ideally, applicants should aim to achieve DAT scores no lower than the national average score. National average scores vary per category, but are generally between a 16 and 17. Please contact the American Dental Association (ADA) for more information. Keep in mind that average DAT scores for OHSU's incoming classes generally range between 18 and 20.
Does OHSU have a limit on the number of times an applicant can take the DAT?
Most applicants to dental school take the DAT no more than twice. If you take it more than once, it is important that your scores consistently improve with every exam. The American Dental Association's Council on Dental Education has established a policy limiting the number of opportunities the DAT can be taken to no more than three. This policy goes into effect on January 1, 2007 and is retroactive. For questions regarding this policy, contact the ADA at (312) 440-2500. There is no limitation for those taking the Canadian DAT.
If I take the DAT more than once, which set of scores does OHSU consider?
OHSU considers the most recent DAT scores. You will find that every dental school is different in this regard. Some schools take an average of all scores, while others take the highest score per DAT category or take only the most recent scores.
Is there a statute of limitation on DAT scores?
OHSU does not consider U.S. or Canadian DAT scores older than 3 years.
Does OHSU accept the Canadian DAT?
OHSU does accept Canadian DAT. All scores including carving are considered. Scores older than 3 years are not valid.
In addition to grades and DAT scores, what makes my application competitive?
In addition to those objective/cognitive factors such as grades and DAT scores OHSU considers subjective/non-cognitive factors including but not limited to extracurricular activities, community service, volunteerism, leadership, research experience, experience in a dental field/dental career exploration, letters of evaluation, work and life experience.
How many hours does OHSU require in exploring dentistry as a career?
Prior to application, OHSU suggests a minimum of 50 documented hours of dental observation. At least 25 of the 50 hours should be spent in a general dental practice for the reason that you will be exposed to all aspects of operating a general practice and observing the wide variety of procedures performed by a general dentist. The remaining 25 hours can be spent observing in a dental school, dental public health or dental specialty setting.
What is a 'letter of evaluation'?
Rather than use the terminology 'letter of recommendation' we choose to use the terminology 'letter of evaluation'. We prefer that applicants attain letters from faculty and dental professionals who are able to do more than solely recommend an applicant to our program, but who can also thoroughly evaluate an applicant's many inherent qualities.
How many 'letters of evaluation' are required to complete my application?
OHSU requires one pre-professional committee letter, or three letters of evaluation from basic science faculty and one from a dental professional. If your pre-professional committee letter does not include an evaluation from a dentist, we ask that you send a supplemental letter of evaluation from a dentist under separate cover.
Does OHSU give preference to Oregon Residents?
OHSU is considered a state assisted institution. Therefore, OHSU does give preference to Oregon residents. Although there is no set number, or quota of Oregon residents that we are required to admit each year, the majority of our incoming class will be Oregon residents.
How do I establish Residency in the State of Oregon?
Your purpose for establishing residency in Oregon should not be primarily for educational reasons. Generally, you should reside and be employed in the state of Oregon at least one year prior to matriculation. If you are enrolled in classes in the state of Oregon, you should not be enrolled in more than eight (8) semester or eight (8) quarter hours. The comprehensive document, Residence Classification Policy and Procedures is available on the University Registrar's Office website.
Does OHSU accept international applicants?
OHSU does not accept any coursework taken outside of the United States or Canada. OHSU does accept applications from international students (permanent residents and F-1 visa holders) that have completed their undergraduate education in the United States or Canada.
Does OHSU have an advanced standing program for foreign dental school graduates?
At the current time, OHSU does not entertain applications for advanced standing.
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