A Primer for Canadians Applying to Dental Schools in Canada

Applying to dental school in Canada is a rigorous, competitive process that requires significant advanced planning. Because requirements vary by institution, it is essential to identify the specific schools you are interested in early.

Academic Preparation

• Undergraduate Studies: While a Bachelor of Science (BSc) is common, there is no single “required” degree. Most schools require a minimum of three years of undergraduate study, though a four-year degree is standard for most successful applicants.
• Prerequisite Courses: You must complete specific science courses, which typically include biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and physiology. Some programs also require humanities or social science credits.
• GPA: Admission is highly competitive. Successful applicants generally have a high cumulative GPA (often in the 3.7+ range, though this varies by school).

Standardized Testing

• Dental Aptitude Test (DAT): This is mandatory for almost all Canadian dental schools. Administered by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), it evaluates your scientific knowledge, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and manual dexterity.
• Casper Test: Many dental schools (such as the University of Toronto and Western University) also require the Casper test, an online assessment of non-cognitive skills like empathy, ethics, and interpersonal communication.

The Application Process

• Research Specific Schools: Admission criteria—including GPA calculations, prerequisite lists, and residency requirements—differ significantly across Canada’s ten dental schools. Visit the official website of each school you intend to apply to.
• Application Portals: Depending on the school, you may apply through a centralized service or directly through the university’s own application portal.
• Components: Expect to submit:
  • Official academic transcripts.
  • DAT scores (sent directly by the testing agency).
  • Casper results.
  • Personal essays or statements.
  • Reference letters (often from professors or professionals).
• Deadlines: Most applications open in the fall (e.g., September) and close between November and early the following year.

Selection and Interviews

• Shortlisting: Competitive applicants are shortlisted based on their academic record, DAT scores, and Casper results.
• Interviews: If invited, you will typically undergo a formal interview. Some schools may also conduct “bench tests” to evaluate your manual dexterity skills in a practical setting.
• Holistic Review: Admissions committees look beyond grades. They assess “soft skills” like compassion, reliability, and the ability to communicate, often gained through volunteer work, shadowing dentists, or work experience in clinical settings.

Summary Checklist for Applicants

Requirement	Action Items
Research	Visit school websites to confirm specific prerequisites.
Testing	Register for and complete the DAT well in advance of deadlines.
Skills	Book and write the Casper test if required by your target schools.
Experience	Gain shadowing or volunteer experience to confirm your career path.
Application	Prepare your transcripts, letters of reference, and personal statements.