ADA DAT Scoring and Reporting Updates: FAQs for Prospective Applicants

• Scoring format: DAT scores will change from a 2-digit score to a 3-digit score. Scores will range from 200 to 600 in 10-point increments (e.g., 200, 210, 220, … 600).
• Unofficial scores: The new scoring model requires additional analyses to provide a more precise score, so beginning March 1, 2025, unofficial scores will not be available at the testing site.

• The good news is there are no changes to the exam content! The test structure and examination policies will also not change.
• ADEA AADSAS^®: Applicants will still be able to self-report both 2-digit and 3-digit scores. All official scores will continue to be sent from the ADA to ADEA AADSAS.

• Through Feb. 22, 2025: Test administrations will continue to use the current 2-digit scale.
• Starting March 1, 2025: Tests administered on or after this date will be reported on the 3-digit scale. Candidates whose DAT applications are approved after Sept. 1, 2024 will receive testing eligibility windows that extend beyond March 1, 2025. If these candidates complete the DAT on or after March 1, 2025, their examination will be scored using the new model and their DAT scores will be reported on the new 3-digit score scale.

A more sophisticated model is being implemented, allowing greater precision and accuracy in estimating an examinee’s skills.

The new scoring model will provide a more accurate estimate of your skills, giving you and prospective dental schools more insight into your level of preparedness for the rigors of dental school.

Yes. 2-digit and 3-digit scores will both be valid scores. The scale you are scored on will depend on when you take the DAT.

If you take the exam on or before Feb. 22, 2025, you’ll receive a 2-digit score.

Starting March 1, 2025, you’ll get the 3-digit score. The ADA will continue to report historical 2-digit scores for administration prior to March 1, 2025.

2-digit scores may be changed to the 3-digit scale using the Concordance Tables available on the ADA DAT website. Test administrations occurring on March 1, 2025 or later will always be reported on the 3-digit scale.

A Concordance Table is available as a tool for understanding comparable scores.

To see how 2-digit and 3-digit test scores compare, see the sample Concordance Table (PDF).

No, unofficial scores will no longer be available at the testing site starting March 1, 2025. The new scoring model requires additional analyses to provide a more precise score.

For score reporting timelines, visit the ADA website.

There will be no change to your application. You will be able to self-report both 2-digit and 3-digit scores, and all official scores will be sent from the ADA to ADEA AADSAS.

Candidates’ choice of when to apply will impact which scoring models will be available for use to score their examination. Once a candidate’s application is approved, they will have six months to complete an administration of the DAT.

For example, a candidate whose application is approved on Sept. 1, 2024 would only have one day of testing eligibility covered by the new scoring and reporting model, March 1, 2025.

You should take the DAT when you feel most prepared. The exam content remains the same, only the score reporting format is changing.