Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by Michael Tijani
When pursuing a career in dentistry, finding the right dental school is crucial. However, circumstances may arise where a student needs to transfer from one dental school to another. It could be due to Personal circumstances such as family or health issues, Financial concerns or opportunities for scholarships and grants, Dissatisfaction with the current dental program, Change in academic interests or career goals, or simply a desire to study in a different institution. Regardless of the reason, transferring to another dental school can be challenging, especially when finding a school that accepts transfer students.
In this article, we have provided a comprehensive list of dental schools that accept transfer students in the US, their various transfer requirements, and everything else you need to know. We have compiled this list to help students looking to transfer to another dental school have a better chance of finding the right institution.
Who is a transfer student?
A transfer student is typically a student who has completed coursework at one dental school and wishes to continue their studies at another institution. Transferring to a different dental school is usually an option for students facing issues with their current program, such as personal or academic challenges, lack of resources, or geographical restrictions.
Benefits of transferring to a dental school
Transferring to a different dental school can offer several benefits, including accessing better resources, receiving a more comprehensive education, or moving closer to home or work. It also gives students a fresh start and an opportunity to explore different areas of study, research interests, or career paths.
Factors to consider before transferring:
Before deciding to transfer to a different dental school, it’s essential to consider several factors, such as:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the new dental school is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
- Curriculum: Check if the curriculum of the new dental school is compatible with the current one and meets the transfer requirements.
- Transferring credits: Evaluate the possibility of transferring credits from the current dental school to the new one.
- Cost: Determine the new dental school’s tuition, fees, and living expenses.
- Timing: Verify if the application deadline and requirements for transfer align with the current dental school’s schedule.
How to apply as a transfer student to a dental school
To apply as a transfer student to a dental school, you will need to follow the same application process as regular applicants. You must submit your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and standardized test scores, such as the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Additionally, you may need to provide a letter from your current dental school indicating that you are in good academic standing and have completed specific coursework.
Challenges of transferring to a dental school
While transferring to a different dental school can be an exciting opportunity, it can also present several challenges, including adjusting to a new curriculum, faculty, and student body. Additionally, some dental schools may have limited spots for transfer students, making the application process highly competitive. These and many more are some challenges you will likely face in your quest to transfer your studies to a new institution.
List of Dental Schools That Accept Transfer Students:
Below is a list of dental schools that accept transfer students in the United States.
1. The University of Minnesota.
The University of Minnesota School of Dental Medicine is one of the dental schools that accept transfer students. The school uses a technologically advanced realistic learning environment called the “3M Foundation Dental Simulation Clinic” to help its students learn every advanced techniques and procedure they will need to treat patients.
Furthermore, DDS students benefit from a rigorous, integrated curriculum that combines the basic, clinical, and behavioral sciences in a nurturing setting full of opportunities for personal development and community engagement.
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry only accepts transfer applications from dental students attending US or Canadian institutions. A transfer is only acceptable for students from institutions within the United States or Canada.
How to apply:
- Fill out the Transfer Application Form and submit the following documents:
- Letters from the Academic Dean and two faculty members of the current dental school
- Applicants must submit transcripts from their current dental school; no “D,” “F,” “N,” or “I” grades will be accepted.
- Applicants must make and nonrefundable application fee of $250.00; the check should be addressed to the University of Minnesota.
2. Marquette University
Marquette University accepts dental students who wish to transfer their studies to a recognized and accredited institution. Applicants are expected to submit their transfer application, a nonrefundable $45 application processing fee, and the official transcripts from their pre-dental College and/or university and dental school records.
Additionally, transfer applicants are required to send their DAT and National Board Part I score results. (if taken). The school also accepts the Canadian DAT.
Most importantly, applicants are required to get a letter from the transfer dental school’s Dean explaining the reasoning behind the proposed transfer. Students who want to transfer must complete their third year of coursework at Marquette. Apply Here
3. The University of Pittsburgh
The University of Pittsburgh School of dental medicine admission committee accepts transfer students from other U.S-accredited dental schools who are in excellent academic standing.
Applicants are expected to meet all entrance requirements in dental science and may be required to take additional written and/or practical assessments before consideration.
Additionally, transfer students must make a nonrefundable $75 admission fee, including a letter of intent stating the possible reason(s) for the transfer request. Other admission requirements include but are not limited to the following;
- Official undergraduate transcripts
- Official dental school transcripts
- Official DAT scores
- Catalog and course descriptions/syllabi from current dental school
- Letter of recommendation from at least one dental school faculty
- National Dental Board Examination results (if applicable)
4. The University of Maryland
The University of Maryland’s Doctor of Dental Surgery program combines a solid biomedical science background with an outstanding clinical education and an emphasis on applying cutting-edge research techniques. The school accepts suitably qualified transfer students from dental schools across the US.
Applicants must be presently enrolled in a dental school in the United States or Canada and in good academic and professional standing to be eligible for consideration for the transfer. Candidates whose individual circumstances require them to move will receive priority consideration.
Please fill out the online FORM if you want to obtain an application. Applications must be requested by January 1st of the intended matriculation year. Applications will be evaluated in light of the anticipated space availability for the upcoming school year.
The completed application should be returned to the Office of Admissions along with the following:
- A detailed letter describing the compelling reason for the transfer request
- A $355 application fee (payable to the University of Maryland)
- A letter from the Dean of the current dental school verifying that the student is currently enrolled and is in good academic and professional standing
- Official undergraduate transcript
- Official DAT score report
- Official dental school transcript
- National Boards Part I score report.
- Syllabi for dental courses already taken.
5. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Dentistry offers a four-year DMD program designed to prepare students for a career in dentistry. The program is focused on providing students with a strong foundation in the biological and clinical sciences and practical experience in patient care. Students have access to a wide range of clinical experiences, including rotations in specialty clinics and community outreach programs. The school also has a strong focus on research and offers a range of research opportunities for students.
Application Requirements:
- Submit a completed online application at the following link:
- https://apply.uth.tmc.edu/psp/applyuth/APPLYUTH/ENTP/h/?tab=UT_EP_NVT_APPLYUTH&
- Applicants must pay a $60 nonrefundable application fee to UT Health Science Center in Houston before consideration.
- Applicants are expected to submit all required documents by March 1st of the year of entry.
- Residency Policy: UT Health School of Dentistry at Houston only reviews and considers admissions from transfer applicants who are US citizens or legal Permanent Residents of the
- United States. The school also gives preference to Texas resident applicants.
6. New York University College of Dentistry
New York University College of Dentistry offers a four-year DMD program designed to provide students with a broad-based education in dentistry. The program is focused on preparing students for private practice or academic careers. Students have access to a wide range of clinical experiences, including rotations in specialty clinics and community outreach programs. The school also offers a range of research opportunities and has a strong focus on patient care.
To qualify for transfer to the New York college of dentistry, applicants must acquire a college cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 or better.
Additionally, applicants must have completed Biology and Chemistry courses with a grade of B or better within ten years before the student’s matriculation at NYU College of Dentistry.
7. Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry
As the only dental school in Virginia, VCU School of Dentistry boasts a diverse and welcoming learning atmosphere in the classroom and clinic.
VCU School of Dentistry offers a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery program designed to ensure graduates enter their careers fully equipped and prepared. The school’s curriculum emphasizes the in-depth study of biomedical, clinical, and behavioral sciences. The program focuses on clinical excellence and incorporates the latest digital dentistry technologies.
Virginia Commonwealth University typically considers transfer applicants at the start of the second year of dental school (D2 class). Additionally, the curricula of the two schools must perfectly align. VCU only accepts transfer students from dental schools in the United States or Canada.
8. Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois
Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois offers a four-year Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program to provide students with a solid foundation in oral health and patient care.
The dental program is divided into two parts: the first two years focus on theoretical and practical training without patient care and provide some initial clinical exposure. The next two years concentrate on clinical training with rotations and relevant theoretical courses. After completing this four-year program and obtaining a DMD degree, graduates can take licensure exams to begin practicing dentistry in the United States or Canada or choose to further their training in specialized areas of dentistry by participating in a residency program.
Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois can admit students transferring from other dental schools, provided that these students meet the criteria of maintaining satisfactory academic performance and have valid reasons for requesting a transfer.
Individuals seeking transfer admission to Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Illinois are required to meet the standard admission criteria of the College. In addition, candidates must follow the application procedures as outlined below:
- All transfer requests must be directed to the Office of Admissions.
- The completed application, which includes transcripts from the previous dental school, class rank, a statement explaining the reason for transfer, and a letter of “Good Academic Standing” from the previous school’s Dean, must be submitted to the Office of Admissions.
- The Admissions Committee assesses all completed applications and interviews selected candidates.
- The Dean reviews the applications and personally interviews the selected transfer candidates.
- Final admission decisions are communicated to applicants by the Dean.
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Conclusion
Transferring to another dental school can be super challenging, but it is essential to remember that it is not impossible. With our list of dental schools that accept transfer students, you now have a better chance of finding the right institution for yourself. Remember that each school on this list may have broader policies and requirements for accepting transfer students, so be sure to research before making any decisions. By choosing the right dental school, you can pave the way to a successful career in dentistry.