Re-taking the DAT

I was in your shoes....

First: Let’s Reframe the Situation

You didn’t fail , you just gathered valuable intel on the test.

• Now you know exactly what the real exam feels like.

• You’ve seen how your prep translated under pressure.

• You know what worked and what didn’t , that’s a plus.

Most successful dental students don’t get in on the first try, many retake the DAT and improve. Admissions committees know this and often value persistence and improvement over a perfect first attempt.

Why You Should Keep Going?

You’re closer than you think.

Even if your score wasn’t what you wanted, the foundation is built. You don’t have to start from zero. You're refining now, not rebuilding.

People do better the second time.

Retakers almost always score higher  not just because they know more, but because they know how to manage time, nerves, and fatigue.

Dental schools love upward trends.

If you show significant improvement, schools see that as:

• A sign of grit and resilience

• Your ability to handle pressure

• Your drive to meet high standards

Get Motivated Again

1. Revisit your “why.”

Why dentistry? Why this path? Visualize that moment when you get your acceptance letter or when you finally start treating patients. That’s still waiting for you.

2. Make it personal.

This isn’t just about a test score. It’s about proving to yourself that you can overcome setbacks. Most people quit when they hit resistance. You’re not most people.

3. Set a bold but realistic goal.

Pick a target score. Build a new strategy. Own this attempt with full clarity. This isn’t repeating this is upgrading.

4. Use the frustration.

That anger, disappointment, or embarrassment? Use it. Channel it. Let it fuel your focus not your doubt.

Reminder: You’re Not Alone

Thousands of dental students have been exactly where you are.

• They cried after their first DAT.

• They doubted their future.

• Then they got back up, and crushed it.