University of Michigan Dental School Acceptance Rate: A Complete Guide

Getting into one of the top dental schools in the nation is no small feat. The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is renowned for its cutting-edge research, clinical excellence, and world-class faculty. This prestige also means its admissions process is incredibly competitive. This guide breaks down the essential statistics, including the highly sought-after U-M Dental School acceptance rate, and provides insights into what it takes to join the Wolverine dentists.

University of Michigan Dental School

Admissions Statistics & Insights (Class of 2027)

5.4%

Acceptance Rate

109 Accepted / 2,018 Applicants

23

Average DAT (AA)

Dental Admission Test

3.85

Average GPA

Overall Undergraduate

109

Class Size

DDS Program Enrollment

Geographic Composition

58% In-State
In-State (MI)
Out-of-State

Top States Represented

  • Michigan
  • California
  • Ohio
  • Illinois
  • New York
  • Florida
  • Texas
  • New Jersey
  • Canada

Annual Tuition & Fees

$75,980

Michigan Resident

$94,130

Non-Resident

Estimated Debt at Graduation

$310,500

Average for recent graduates, including living expenses.

Average Dentist Income

$185,000+

National average starting salary for General Dentists. Varies by location and specialty.

Loan Repayment

Multiple Options

Graduates often utilize federal programs like REPAYE/SAVE or private refinancing. Income-driven plans can make payments manageable.

What is the Acceptance Rate at U-M Dental School?

The acceptance rate is the single most important metric for gauging how competitive a school is. For the most recent application cycle, the University of Michigan Dental School acceptance rate was approximately 5.4%.

This figure is calculated from a pool of over 2,000 applicants vying for just 109 spots in the entering class. An acceptance rate this low places U-M among the most selective dental schools in the country, highlighting the exceptional quality of students they enroll. Success requires not only meeting but exceeding the average academic metrics.

Academic Profile of an Admitted Student

While the acceptance rate provides a broad overview, understanding the academic profile of the average admitted student offers a more concrete target for aspiring dentists. U-M looks for applicants who have demonstrated consistent academic excellence throughout their undergraduate careers.

Average GPA

The average overall GPA for an accepted student at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry is 3.85. Equally important is the science GPA (sGPA), which admissions committees scrutinize to ensure a candidate can handle the rigorous dental curriculum. A high GPA is a non-negotiable component of a competitive application.

Average DAT Score

The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a critical standardized test for dental school admissions. The average DAT Academic Average (AA) score for the incoming class at Michigan is 23. Strong performance across all sections of the DAT, including the Perceptual Ability Test (PAT) and science sections, is essential to stand out in the applicant pool.

Understanding the Cost: Tuition, Fees, and Debt

A dental education is a significant financial investment. Being aware of the costs is a crucial part of the application and decision-making process.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Tuition

There is a substantial difference in cost for Michigan residents compared to out-of-state students.

  • In-State Annual Tuition & Fees: ~$76,000

  • Out-of-State Annual Tuition & Fees: ~$94,000

This difference underscores the advantage that in-state applicants have, not just in admissions preference but also in the financial burden of their education.

Managing Student Debt

With an estimated average debt of over $300,000 upon graduation, understanding loan repayment is vital. Graduates have access to federal programs like SAVE (formerly REPAYE) and private refinancing options. The strong earning potential for U-M dental graduates helps make this debt manageable over the course of their careers.

Beyond the Numbers: What Makes a U-M Applicant Stand Out?

A high GPA and DAT score are necessary, but they aren’t enough on their own. The U-M admissions committee conducts a holistic review, seeking well-rounded individuals who will contribute to the school and the profession. Key factors include:

  • Dental Shadowing: Extensive shadowing hours across different dental settings (general dentistry, specialties) show a confirmed interest in the profession.

  • Research Experience: As a top research institution, U-M values applicants with a background in scientific research.

  • Community Service & Volunteering: A demonstrated commitment to serving others is highly valued.

  • Leadership and Extracurriculars: Holding leadership roles or showing significant involvement in activities demonstrates maturity and interpersonal skills.

  • A Compelling Personal Statement: Your essay is your chance to tell your story, explain why you want to be a dentist, and articulate why U-M is the right fit for you.