Upcoming Changes to DAT Scoring and Reporting [March 1, 2025]

What's Changing

Starting March 1, 2025, the DAT will transition from a 2-digit scoring scale (1-30) to a 3-digit scale (200-600) in increments of 10 (ex. 200, 210, 220, … 600).

For example, a score of 21 AA under the old scale corresponds to 430 or 440 AA under the new scale.

The new 200–600 scoring scale offers a more precise measurement of test performance. By expanding the score range, it allows for finer distinctions between different levels of achievement.

Additionally, scores will no longer be available immediately after the exam. The new scoring process involves additional steps to analyze and fine-tune the results, ensuring the scores accurately reflect performance. You'll receive your results a few weeks after your DAT.

What Remains The Same

Exam Content

There are no changes to DAT content. You should prepare exactly the same as before, focused on mastering the six DAT sections:

1. Biology
2. General Chemistry
3. Organic Chemistry
4. Perceptual Ability Test (PAT)
5. Reading Comprehension
6. Quantitative Reasoning‍

‍Scoring Components

The DAT will continue to provide:

• Individual Section Scores: Each of the six sections scored separately.
• Total Science Score: A combined assessment of biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry.
• Academic Average: This is the most important score, averaging all sections except the PAT.

New Scoring Scale Explained

Score Distribution Breakdown

The new 3-digit scale will range from 200 to 600, offering a more accurate performance assessment. Let's break down what this means:

*Note that the above table is based on the ADA's unofficial conversion table. The official conversion table will be released closer to March 1st, 2025.

Key Dates to Remember

• March 1, 2025: Start of 3-digit scoring system. Anyone taking the exam before this date will receive a 2-digit score. Anyone taking the exam after March 1, 2025, will receive a 3-digit score. Dental schools will accept both scores.

How is DAT Bootcamp changing?

Starting in 2025, DAT Bootcamp will provide both 2-digit and 3-digit estimated scores in practice test results. After March 1st, 2025, we will only offer 3-digit estimated scores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the exam content change?
A: No. The exam content remains exactly the same.

Q: Will I get my score immediately after taking the exam?
A: No. The new scoring system requires additional analyses, which fine-tune your score for a more precise result. You'll receive your score a few weeks after your DAT.

Q: Will previous 2-digit scores be valid?
A: Yes. Both 2-digit and 3-digit scores will remain valid based on your test date, with the ADA maintaining historical score records.

Q: Will my 2-digit scores be converted to 3 digits?
A: No. Tests taken up to February 28, 2025, will receive a 2-digit score. Tests taken on or after March 1, 2025, will receive a 3-digit score.

Q: What’s a good DAT score after the change?
A: The average for acceptance to dental school is anticipated to be around 420-430 on the new scale. Highly competitive scores will be 470+.

Q: How will dental schools interpret the new scoring?
A: The ADA will provide a Concordance Table to help schools understand score equivalencies between the old and new scales.

Q: Should I change my study plan because of this new scoring system?
A: Absolutely not. Only the scoring system is changing, not the content of the test.  Continue your current preparation strategy, focusing on mastering content and test-taking skills.

Q: Should I take the exam before or after the new scoring?
A: Take your exam when you feel most prepared. The new scoring will not affect your dental school application. 

Stay focused, keep studying, and remember that your comprehensive preparation matters more than any scoring system. Keep practicing with DAT practice tests, review the explanations, and you’ll be well prepared to ace the DAT.