A Bit about the DAT
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is designed to measure general academic ability, comprehension of scientific information, and perceptual ability. While all Dental Schools require Examinees to participate in the Dental Admission Testing program, test results are only one aspect considered in evaluating the admission potential of an examinee.
Survey of Natural Sciences
+ Time - 90 minutes
+ Format - 100 multiple-choice questions
+ Content - Biology, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry
Perceptual Ability
+ Time - 60 minutes
+ Format - 90 multiple-choice questions
+ Content - Visualizing in 3 dimensions, angle discrimination
Reading Comprehension
+ Time - 60 minutes
+ Length - 50 multiple-choice questions
+ Content - Ability to absorb information, finding the main idea, ability to keep track of information
Quantitative Reasoning
+ Time - 45 minutes
+ Format - 40 multiple-choice questions
+ Content - Algebra, word problems, basic Math, Geometry, Trigonometry
Performance on the test is denoted by a set of seven distinct scores. You will receive a separate score for reading comprehension, perceptual ability, quantitative reasoning, and each of the science disciplines tested under the natural science - biology, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry. In addition, you will receive an academic average score, which takes into account your performance on all of the sections of the exam except perceptional ability. Each of these scores is reported on a 1-30 scale (30 being the highest possible score). A score of 16 signifies average performance on a national basis. Scores are based on the total number of correct answers; there is no penalty for guessing.
NOTE: To register for the DAT or receive more information, go to the following link provided by the American Dental Association (ADA) for the DAT testing program. DAT information was gathered from this website.
