UCAT Dentistry: Guide to UCAT for Dentistry

Which universities accept dentistry scores on the UCAT®?

Dentistry is a competitive, fulfilling career path, with many undergraduate programs requiring the UCAT® exam to differentiate applicants and improve patient quality of life.

Which UCAT® score is required in Australia for dentistry?

• Griffith University's 78th percentile is the lowest UCAT® score threshold for 2022 dental program admissions, but a 90th+ percentile score is required for 2023.

What is the Dentistry UCAT® Average Score?
Undergraduate dentistry programs in Australia typically have UCAT ® threshold scores between the 85th and 95th percentile, which are competitive compared to medicine.

Is UCAT® Dentistry Necessary?

Five of Australia's nine dentistry schools require you to take the UCAT® exam in order to apply for and perhaps receive an interview offer.

What constitutes a dental program?

• A dentistry program is an undergraduate or graduate degree, leading to a license and accreditation by the Royal Australian College of Dental Surgeons, unlike oral health therapy degrees.

Undergraduate dental programs in Australia.

• The table provided is a guide and does not reflect actual UCAT® dental cut off scores or university requirements, as admissions processes are confidential.

Can you still get into dentistry with a low UCAT® score?
Receiving a poor UCAT® score does not preclude you from pursuing a career in dentistry. There are various paths to becoming a dentist, each with perks and downsides.

Option 1: Universities without the UCAT®.

• Of the nine universities in Australia that offer dental programs, four do not require the UCAT® exam.These universities include JCU, USYD, Griffith, and LaTrobe University Dentistry.

Option 2: Nonstandard entry.

• In Australia, six out of nine institutions allow non-traditional applications for dentistry, offering flexibility and a backup plan for alternative careers due to tough admissions procedures and age restrictions.

Option 3: Gap year.

• High school students with high ATAR scores often opt for this option, allowing them to take a gap year while their ATAR score remains valid.

Option 4: Graduate degrees.

• In Australia, six out of nine institutions allow non-traditional applications for dentistry, offering flexibility and a backup plan for alternative careers due to tough admissions procedures and age restrictions.

Advice: Applying for Dentistry using the UCAT®

• Studying dentistry requires reflection on salary, work-life balance, and status, but not solely on admission challenges. Focusing on professional goals and choosing dentistry can help with interview choices.

What Should I Do After Receiving a High UCAT® Dental Score?

• A strong UCAT® score is crucial for dentistry offers, but not employment. Competitive interview selection and early practice are essential, similar to medicine.

For more information, check out our full article here:
https://gradready.com.au/ucat-dentistry