Just Image

DDS Interview Candidates

Congratulations on advancing to this stage of the UCSF School of Dentistry admissions process. The Office of Admissions and Outreach designed this page to help you prepare for your interview, understand what to expect, and learn more about life at UCSF. We wish you the very best as you continue through the review process.

If you have questions, please email: admissions.ucsfdental@ucsf.edu.

What to expect on interview day

Your interview day is designed to help us get to know you and to give you a closer look at UCSF. The details below explain each part of the process so you know exactly what to expect.

  • You will complete two interviews—one with faculty and one with a current student—which are evaluated by members of the Admissions Committee. Each interviewer assesses four key competencies:

    1. Motivation
    2. Self-awareness
    3. Problem-solving and critical thinking
    4. Collaboration, teamwork, and leadership

    To ensure a fair and holistic evaluation, interviewers do not have access to your written application.

  • You’ll participate in a one-on-one Zoom interview with a faculty member on a date and time you select. Please refer to your email invitation for instructions on choosing your slot.

  • You may complete your student interview virtually or in person:

    • Virtual option: A one-on-one Zoom interview and a 30-minute writing exercise, offered on select dates.
    • In-person option: A one-on-one interview with a current student, plus an on-campus experience that includes a campus tour, a 30-minute writing exercise, and lunch with student club leaders. If you choose an in-person interview, we encourage you to take public transit when possible. Transportation and parking details are available on the UCSF Transportation and UCSF Parking websites.

    Important: You must complete both interviews—faculty and student—to advance in the review process. Missing either interview indicates withdrawal of interest, and your application will be removed from consideration.

Image

Experience our campus

Take a tour of campus, meet with admissions staff, and get a sense of what life at UCSF School of Dentistry is like. Tours are regularly available on the first Wednesday of every month from 1:30–2:45 p.m. PST. 

Check our online calendar to find a date that works for you, or for group tours, reach out to our office: