Questions to Ask Dental Schools
Strategic questions to evaluate dental school programs, clinical training, costs, match rates, and whether the school aligns with your career goals.
1What is the curriculum structure, and how is clinical training integrated?
Click to see why this works
What is the curriculum structure, and how is clinical training integrated?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies when hands-on experience begins and how classroom learning connects to practice.
2What are the total program costs, including tuition, fees, and living expenses?
Click to see why this works
What are the total program costs, including tuition, fees, and living expenses?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides full financial picture and helps you plan for debt load.
3What is the average debt load for graduating students, and what loan repayment support is available?
Click to see why this works
What is the average debt load for graduating students, and what loan repayment support is available?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Assesses financial burden and whether the school offers resources to manage it.
4What is the board pass rate for graduates on the first attempt?
Click to see why this works
What is the board pass rate for graduates on the first attempt?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows how well the program prepares students for licensing exams.
5What types of clinical experiences will I get, and how many patients will I treat?
Click to see why this works
What types of clinical experiences will I get, and how many patients will I treat?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals hands-on volume and whether you'll graduate with real-world competence.
6What specialties are available, and how competitive are residency placements?
Click to see why this works
What specialties are available, and how competitive are residency placements?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies whether you can pursue advanced training and how successful graduates are in matching.
7What is the student-to-faculty ratio in clinic and classroom settings?
Click to see why this works
What is the student-to-faculty ratio in clinic and classroom settings?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Assesses individual attention and mentorship availability.
8What technology and equipment are available for student use?
Click to see why this works
What technology and equipment are available for student use?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows whether you'll train on modern tools or outdated systems.
9How does the school support students who struggle academically or clinically?
Click to see why this works
How does the school support students who struggle academically or clinically?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals whether support systems are in place or if students are left to sink or swim.
10What is the attrition rate, and why do students leave the program?
Click to see why this works
What is the attrition rate, and why do students leave the program?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Surfaces retention issues and whether the program is sustainable.
11What community service or underserved population experiences are required or available?
Click to see why this works
What community service or underserved population experiences are required or available?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows whether the program values public health and social responsibility.
12How are clinical assignments made, and is there flexibility in scheduling?
Click to see why this works
How are clinical assignments made, and is there flexibility in scheduling?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies whether you'll have control over your patient load and schedule.
13What career services and job placement support does the school provide?
Click to see why this works
What career services and job placement support does the school provide?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Assesses whether the school helps graduates find employment after licensing.
14What research opportunities are available for students interested in academic dentistry?
Click to see why this works
What research opportunities are available for students interested in academic dentistry?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals whether the school supports scholarly work and academic pathways.
15How does the school approach interprofessional education with medical, pharmacy, or nursing students?
Click to see why this works
How does the school approach interprofessional education with medical, pharmacy, or nursing students?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Shows whether collaborative care is emphasized and practiced.
16What is the diversity of the student body and faculty?
Click to see why this works
What is the diversity of the student body and faculty?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Assesses inclusivity and whether you'll learn in a representative environment.
17How does the school handle student wellness and mental health support?
Click to see why this works
How does the school handle student wellness and mental health support?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Reveals whether burnout and stress are acknowledged and addressed.
18What is the school's reputation in the dental community, and how do employers view graduates?
Click to see why this works
What is the school's reputation in the dental community, and how do employers view graduates?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Clarifies whether the degree will open doors or require extra credentialing.
19Can I speak with current students or recent alumni about their experience?
Click to see why this works
Can I speak with current students or recent alumni about their experience?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Provides unfiltered perspectives from those living or fresh out of the program.
20What sets this dental school apart from others I'm considering?
Click to see why this works
What sets this dental school apart from others I'm considering?
Click to see why this works
Why this works
Invites the school to articulate its unique strengths and value proposition.
Choosing the Right Dental School
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.