Best Dental schools for out-of-state students in 2024

Last Updated on November 23, 2024 by II Editor

Attending dental school as an out-of-state student can be an exciting and challenging experience. Not only would you have to navigate a new city and culture, but you also have to find a dental school that meets your academic and career goals. Fortunately, many excellent dental schools across the United States welcome out-of-state students and offer top-notch education and training.

We will explore some of the best dental schools for out-of-state students based on admission requirements, academic reputation, clinical opportunities, and career prospects. We have also provided insights into the application process, tips for success in dental school, and career paths for dental graduates.

By the end of this post, you will better understand which institution has the best dental schools for out-of-state students and some essential things to consider when choosing a dental school. So, let us dive in and explore the exciting world of dental education and practice! 

Best Dental Schools for Out-of-State Students

Below, we meticulously compiled a list of some dental schools that accept out-of-state students.

#1: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine  

The University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, is among the best dental schools in the United States. It offers an excellent dental program renowned for its comprehensive and innovative curriculum. The school is open to out-of-state students and allows them to use its state-of-the-art facilities and resources. The tuition is high, but the quality of education and career prospects make it worth it.

#2: The University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry 

The University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry, is another excellent choice for out-of-state students. The school offers a four-year program that combines a rigorous academic curriculum with clinical experience and awards a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. UCLA is known for its cutting-edge research and innovative teaching methods, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education.

As an out-of-state student, you can expect to pay approximately $102,712 per year in tuition and fees. However, UCLA also offers financial aid packages and scholarships to out-of-state students meeting eligibility standards.

#3: University of Michigan School of Dentistry 

The University of Michigan, School of Dentistry is another top choice for out-of-state students. The school offers a four-year program designed to prepare students for a successful career in dentistry. The program focuses on hands-on experience and provides state-of-the-art facilities for students to practice their skills. Michigan is known for its excellent faculty and staff, who are committed to providing the best possible education to its students.

#4: Chapel Hill School of Dentistry 

Chapel Hill School of Dentistry is an excellent choice for out-of-state students seeking an affordable dental program. The school offers an excellent education at a fraction of the cost of other top dental schools. The program is four years long and includes hands-on clinical experience, research opportunities, and community outreach programs.

#5: New York University College of Dentistry

The New York University (NYU) College of Dentistry is in New York City and offers a four-year program leading to a DDS degree. The school is known for its diverse student body and extensive clinical experience, with students treating over 200,000 patients annually. As an out-of-state student, you can expect to pay approximately $109,892 per year in tuition and fees. However, NYU also offers need-based financial aid packages and merit-based scholarships to out-of-state students who qualify. 

Things to consider when applying to dental schools as an out-of-state student

As an out-of-state student, there are several things you should consider when choosing a dental school. These factors can significantly impact your education and future career prospects. Here are some of the factors you need to consider:

• Acceptance Rates: As an out-of-state student, it’s important to understand that acceptance rates to dental schools can vary widely depending on the school and the competitiveness of the applicant pool. Generally, acceptance rates for out-of-state students are lower than for in-state students since many dental schools prioritize admitting applicants from their home state. That said, some dental schools have a more favorable acceptance rate for out-of-state students than others. For example, the University of Michigan School of Dentistry admits around 40% of its class from out-of-state, while the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine admits about 20%. Additionally, having a solid application, including a high GPA, DAT score, and relevant experiences in dentistry, can increase your chances of acceptance to dental school as an out-of-state student.
• Travel and Housing: As an out-of-state student, you may need to travel long distances to attend interviews or campus visits. Some schools may offer travel grants or assistance with housing, so make sure to explore these options. Be sure to factor in the cost of travel and accommodation when considering which schools to apply to. 
• Cultural and Social Adjustment: As an out-of-state student, you may need to adjust to a new culture and social environment. Joining student organizations and connecting with other out-of-state students can help ease the transition and create a supportive network. Research the local community and consider climate, lifestyle, and social activities. 
• Scholarships and Financial Aid: Dental education can be expensive, so exploring scholarships and financial aid options is essential. All five dental schools we listed here offer merit-based scholarships or need-based financial aid to help offset the cost of tuition and fees. Be sure to review each school’s financial aid options and application deadlines.
• Residency Requirements: Some dental schools may have specific residency requirements you must meet before applying as an out-of-state student. For example, some schools may require that you have resided in the state for a certain period before applying for studies at the institution. Make sure to review the admission requirements for each school you are considering. 

What are the career prospects for an out-of-state student?

The career prospects for out-of-state dental students are generally good as long as they graduate from an accredited dental program and meet all licensure requirements in their state of practice.

Furthermore, dentists have a high earning potential and job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dentists in 2021 was $163,220, and the employment of dentists is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

As an out-of-state student, your career prospects may depend on several factors, including the location of the dental school you attend, your area of specialization, and your network and connections. Attend a dental school in a high-demand area like California or specialize in a high-demand area of dentistry, such as orthodontics or pediatric dentistry. You may have more job opportunities and earning potential.

Networking is also essential in building your career prospects as an out-of-state student. Dental schools provide opportunities for their students to network with professionals in the field, including faculty, alums, and other industry professionals. Joining professional organizations and attending industry events can also help you build your professional network and increase your job opportunities.

Adapting and being flexible can help build a successful career in dentistry. Being open to opportunities in different locations is essential as an out-of-state student. You may need to be flexible and willing to move to a new place to find the best job opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right dental school is crucial to your career prospects and future dental success. As an out-of-state student, you have a variety of excellent options to choose from, each with its strengths and benefits. The five dental schools mentioned above offer some of the best dental programs in the country and are highly respected in the dental community. Consider these schools when choosing the best fit for your needs and goals. When determining, remember to factor in tuition, admission requirements, program curriculum, and overall reputation. You can achieve your dream of becoming a successful and accomplished dentist with the proper education.