NYU Dental Acceptance Rate: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting into a top-tier dental school like the New York University College of Dentistry is a significant achievement. As one of the most sought-after dental programs in the world, understanding its admissions landscape is crucial for prospective students. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the NYU dental acceptance rate, academic requirements, and other key statistics to help you prepare your application.

Understanding the NYU Dental Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate at NYU College of Dentistry is highly competitive, reflecting its status as a leading institution. While the exact percentage fluctuates annually based on the applicant pool, it consistently remains in the low double-digits.

Key Admissions Statistics

• Overall Acceptance Rate: The approximate acceptance rate for the NYU College of Dentistry is around 12.2%.

• Total Applicants: NYU Dental receives a substantial number of applications each year, typically over 3,000.

• Class Size: The entering DDS class is one of the largest in the country, with approximately 380 students enrolled.

What Does It Take to Get In? Academic Profile

A strong academic record is fundamental for a successful application. NYU looks for candidates who have demonstrated excellence in rigorous science coursework.

Average GPA and DAT Scores

• Overall GPA: The average overall GPA for an accepted student is approximately 3.62.

• Science GPA: The average science GPA is slightly lower, around 3.52.

• Dental Admission Test (DAT): The average DAT Academic Average (AA) score for matriculants is 21. A competitive score is essential to stand out.

NYU Dental vs. Other Top Schools: A Comparison

To put NYU’s standards into perspective, it’s helpful to compare them with another elite public institution like the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

NYU vs. University of Michigan

• Acceptance Rate: NYU’s rate of ~12.2% is higher than U of M’s more selective ~6.3%.

• Academics: The University of Michigan generally has slightly higher average stats, with a 3.82 GPA and a 22.4 DAT score. This highlights that while NYU is competitive, different top schools have unique applicant profiles.

Student Body & Geographic Diversity

NYU prides itself on a diverse and global student body. The composition of the entering class showcases a wide geographic draw.

Class of 2026 Profile

• In-State Students: Approximately 31.3% of the class comes from New York State.

• Out-of-State Students: A majority, 55.5%, come from other states across the U.S.

• International Students: The remaining 13.2% are international students, underscoring NYU’s global reputation.

Financial Investment: Tuition and Debt

Attending a private dental school in New York City represents a significant financial commitment. Applicants must be prepared for the associated costs.

Tuition and Estimated Costs

The estimated tuition and fees for the first year (D1) at NYU College of Dentistry exceed $106,000. When including living expenses, supplies, and other costs, the total cost of attendance is higher.

Managing Debt and Future Income

• Average Debt: It is common for dental school graduates to accumulate significant student loan debt, with national averages often exceeding $300,000.

• Potential Income: The earning potential for dentists in New York is strong, helping to offset the initial investment. An average general dentist in New York can earn over $226,000, with specialists like orthodontists and oral surgeons earning significantly more.