Thank you for your interest in the DDS program at the UCSF School of Dentistry. Whether you are a high school student looking ahead, or a post-traditional student considering a career change, this website will be a helpful resource. You will find information on prerequisites, the application process, and our technical standards.
We recommend that you attend one of our monthly campus tours and other pre-dental events sponsored by our student clubs. Details and registration can be found here.
COVID-19 Related Information for 2020-21 Applicants
Online Courses – Many undergraduate schools have gone to online courses during the pandemic. We will accept online courses if they are offered by the school at which the candidate was enrolled prior to the current crisis. For students who are beyond undergraduate school, we will accept online courses undertaken to meet prerequisites regardless of the institution. Please keep in mind, these courses and units must be earned at an accredited U.S. or English-speaking Canadian institution. If you are uncertain about your specific plans, please email the Office of Admissions & Outreach prior to enrolling in the course.
Pass/Fail Grades – UCSF will accept pass/fail grades (if it's an option, we prefer graded course work), without prejudice, for courses taken during the COVID pandemic. It has always been our practice to consider grades in the context of numerous other aspects of the application, and an international crisis certainly provides a unique and compelling perspective.
Evaluation of Applicants, Interviews and Final Decision
Completed applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Those who are selected to move forward in the process, will be invited for a virtual interview. Interviews take place between October and January.
The School of Dentistry takes a holistic approach to our admissions process. Our Admissions Committee considers all aspects of the application, including academic background and ability, motivation for a dental career, and the potential for future success in the program and dentistry indicated by past achievements and present commitments and an applicant's performance in an interview. The school welcomes applicants from all economic, social and cultural segments of society, and is committed to increasing the number of professionals from underrepresented minority groups.
Admissions Policies
UCSF has a wide range of resources to help educate prospective students and protect the rights of current students.
Course Prerequisites
Students must complete a range of prerequisite coursework in order to be eligible for the DDS program. Some of these requirements may be satisfied with AP or IB tests.
How to Apply
In addition to the application, students should plan to send in transcripts, recommendation letters, DAT scores and application fees.
International Coursework
Special procedures exist for international students, including additional transcript evaluation.
Class Profile
Check out our incoming class!
Technical Standards
There are several essential abilities required for completion of the DDS degree.
