01
How DAT scores are reported
The ADA describes DAT results as scale scores rather than raw correct counts or percentiles. Its public score FAQ states that scale scores range from 1 to 30 and that 19 typically signifies average performance on a national basis.
02
What makes a score good
- It is competitive for the specific dental schools on your list.
- It avoids major section weaknesses that conflict with a program's expectations.
- It fits the rest of your application, including GPA, experiences, essays, and timing.
- It is recent enough and reported correctly for the schools receiving it.
03
How to interpret a practice score
Treat practice scores as planning data. A single practice test can be affected by content coverage, stamina, test familiarity, and the difficulty of that form. The most useful trend is section-by-section improvement across reviewed tests.
04
Retake decision checklist
- Check each target school's score expectations and deadlines.
- Identify whether the weakness is broad or concentrated in one section.
- Estimate whether a retake plan can change the underlying cause, not just repeat practice tests.
- Review current ADA retest rules before scheduling.