DMD Program FAQ
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.
Does OHSU accept international applicants?
OHSU does accept applications from international students (permanent residents and F-1 visa holders) that have completed their undergraduate education at an accredited college or university in the United States or Canada.
Does OHSU accept the Canadian DAT?
OHSU no longer accepts the Canadian DAT. This change in policy goes into effect for the application cycle beginning in May/June 2013.
Does OHSU give preference to Oregon Residents?
OHSU is considered a state assisted institution. Therefore, OHSU does give preference to Oregon residents.
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.
Does OHSU have an advanced standing program for foreign dental school graduates?
At the current time, OHSU does not entertain applications for advanced standing.
How do I establish Residency in the State of Oregon?
Generally, you should reside and be employed in the state of Oregon at least one year prior to matriculation.
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.
How many 'letters of evaluation' are required to complete my application?
OHSU requires one pre-professional committee letter, or two letters of evaluation from basic science faculty and one from a dental professional.
I noticed that OHSU added basic science pre-requisite courses. Why?
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.
If I take the DAT more than once, which set of scores does OHSU consider?
OHSU considers the most recent DAT scores.
In addition to grades and DAT scores, what makes my application competitive?
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.
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 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
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. In addition, you should avoid withdrawing from courses if at all possible.
Is there a statute of limitation on course work accepted by OHSU?
OHSU currently does not have a statute of limitation on course work.
Is there a statute of limitation on DAT scores?
OHSU does not consider U.S. or Canadian DAT scores older than 3 years.
What is a 'letter of evaluation'?
Rather than use the terminology 'letter of recommendation' we choose to use the terminology 'letter of evaluation'.
What is OHSU's minimum DAT requirement?
OHSU has established a minimum DAT score of 15 in each DAT category.
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.
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.