Dreaming of a career in dentistry and setting your sights on the University of Connecticut? The UConn School of Dental Medicine (SDM) is a highly respected institution, known for its innovative curriculum and strong clinical training. But getting in is highly competitive.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential statistic every applicant wants to know: the UConn Dental School acceptance rate. We’ll go beyond the numbers to explore the average GPA and DAT scores of admitted students, provide a strategic guide to strengthen your application, and analyze the financial investment involved.

To give you the most detailed and engaging overview, we’ve created a live, interactive dashboard with all the key admissions data.

UConn Dental School Admissions: Interactive Dashboard

This dashboard provides a real-time, in-depth look at the statistics for the UConn School of Dental Medicine. Use the interactive elements to explore the data.

UConn Dental School Admissions Dashboard

An in-depth look at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine's admissions statistics.

🎓Overall Acceptance Rate

0.0%

Based on recent class enrollment data

📚Academic Profile of Enrolled Class

0.00
Average Overall GPA
0.00
Average Science GPA
0
DAT: Academic Avg.
0
DAT: Total Science
0
DAT: PAT
0
Class Size

📊Admissions Funnel

  • Applicants
    0
  • Interviewed
    0
  • Accepted
    0
  • Enrolled
    0

🌎Geographic Composition

0%
  • In-State (Connecticut)
  • Out-of-State

💰Annual Tuition & Estimated Debt

In-State Tuition~$48,500
Out-of-State Tuition~$89,000
Avg. Graduate Debt0

💼Post-Graduation Outlook

Avg. Starting Salary0
Loan Repayment Term10-25 Years (Typical)
Specialty Residency~35% of graduates pursue

📊Competitive Analysis: UConn vs. UMich

Metric UConn SDM U-M School of Dentistry
Acceptance Rate ~5.5% ~5.1%
Avg. GPA 3.75 3.81
Avg. DAT (AA) 22 23
In-State Tuition ~$48.5k ~$46.2k
Out-of-State Tuition ~$89k ~$65.1k

Data is based on recent class profiles and public information for illustrative purposes. Always consult the official UConn SDM website for the most current and accurate data.

Breaking Down the UConn Dental School Acceptance Rate & Stats

The numbers in the dashboard can seem daunting. Let’s analyze what they mean for you as a prospective student.

What is the Acceptance Rate at UConn Dental School?

The overall acceptance rate for the UConn School of Dental Medicine hovers around 5.5%. This figure is calculated based on the number of students who enroll out of the total number of applicants. It underscores the school’s high degree of selectivity. With nearly 1,000 applicants vying for just 55 seats in a typical class, UConn SDM is one of the more competitive dental programs in the country.

Academic Profile: GPA and DAT Scores are Crucial

To be a competitive applicant, your academic metrics need to be exceptional. The averages for the enrolled class set a clear benchmark:

  • Average Overall GPA: 3.75

  • Average Science GPA: 3.68

  • Average DAT (Academic Average): 22

While these are averages, successful applicants often exceed them. A strong performance in rigorous science coursework (like biology, chemistry, and physics) is non-negotiable and is directly reflected in your Science GPA.

The Admissions Funnel: From Applicant to Enrolled Student

Understanding the admissions funnel provides a realistic perspective on the journey:

  1. Applicants (~985): A large pool of qualified individuals apply each cycle.

  2. Interviews (~170): Only about 17% of applicants are invited for an interview. Earning an interview means the admissions committee sees you as a strong candidate on paper.

  3. Acceptances (~80): Following interviews, the school extends offers of admission.

  4. Enrolled Class (55): The final class size is small, ensuring a low student-to-faculty ratio.

In-State vs. Out-of-State: A Geographic Advantage

As a state-funded institution, UConn SDM shows a strong preference for Connecticut residents. Typically, over 60% of the incoming class are in-state students. While out-of-state applicants are welcome and do get accepted, they face significantly more competition for a smaller number of available seats.

How to Get Into UConn Dental School: A Strategic Guide

Meeting the average stats is just the first step. A successful application tells a compelling story. Here’s how to build one.

Gain Meaningful Dental Experience

Shadowing multiple general dentists and specialists is essential. UConn wants to see that you understand the day-to-day realities of the profession. Document your hours and reflect on what you learned from each experience. Hands-on volunteering in a clinical setting is also highly valued.

Develop and Showcase Your Manual Dexterity

Dentistry is a hands-on art and science. The admissions committee looks for evidence of fine motor skills. Highlight hobbies or activities that require precision, such as playing a musical instrument, painting, sculpting, model building, or sewing.

Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal statement is your chance to connect with the admissions committee on a human level. Don’t just list your accomplishments. Instead, weave a narrative that answers the question: “Why do you want to be a dentist, and why specifically at UConn?” Show your passion, resilience, and commitment to serving others.

Prepare for the Interview

The interview is your final test. Be prepared to discuss your application in detail, answer ethical questions (MMI – Multiple Mini Interview format is possible), and demonstrate your communication skills and maturity. Research UConn’s program, its faculty, and its community initiatives to ask insightful questions.

Understanding the Cost: Tuition, Debt, and Career Outlook

A dental education is a significant financial investment. It’s crucial to understand the costs and potential returns.

Tuition and Fees

  • In-State Annual Tuition: Approximately $48,500

  • Out-of-State Annual Tuition: Approximately $89,000

These figures do not include living expenses, books, or equipment, which can add another 

20,000−

30,000 per year. The significant difference in tuition is a primary reason why in-state residency provides a major advantage.

Average Debt and Financial Aid

The average dental school graduate leaves with over $300,000 in student loan debt. While this is a substantial figure, dentistry remains a lucrative profession. The average starting salary for a general dentist is well over $160,000, allowing for manageable repayment with proper financial planning. We strongly advise all applicants to explore scholarships, grants, and federal loan options.

Is UConn Dental School the Right Fit For You?

Gaining admission to the UConn School of Dental Medicine is a challenging but achievable goal for dedicated and well-prepared applicants. By focusing on academic excellence, securing diverse experiences, and crafting a thoughtful application, you can position yourself as a top contender. Use the data in our interactive tool as your guide and motivation to build the strongest application possible. Good luck