ADA.org: DAT Candidate Guide

Dental Admission

Test (DAT)

2024 Candidate Guide

IMPORTANT NOTE: COVID-19 may continue to have an impact on examination programs implemented by DTS. Candidates should

regularly monitor

ADA.org/DAT

, to understand the potential impact of COVID-19 on Examination Program administrations. Candidates

must comply with all required test center procedures, including those pertaining to COVID-19.

You are required to read this Guide before you apply to take the examination.

At the time of application, you will be required to confirm that you have read this Guide, understood its contents, and agree to

the policies and procedures contained herein.

Changes to the Dental Admission Test (DAT®) Program may occur after publication of this Guide. Updated PDFs will be posted to

ADA.org/DAT

. You will be subject to the policies and procedures currently in effect at the time of your test administration.

The Department of Testing Services (DTS) is a shared service of the American Dental Association (ADA) that

employs testing professionals and provides professional examination services in all relevant areas (e.g., test

design, content development, administration, analysis, and reporting). At the direction of the governing bodies

it supports, DTS advises on policy based on testing industry best practices and professional experience, and

implements policy for the orderly, secure, and fair administration of examination programs within its charge.

Dental Admission Test (DAT)

2024 Candidate Guide

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 1

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW ............................................................. 2

About this Guide and Examination Program ...... 2

Purpose of the Examination ............................... 2

Examination Fairness ......................................... 2

Ethical Conduct .................................................. 3

EXAMINATION CONTENT AND

PREPARATION MATERIALS ................................ 4

Examination Specifications ................................ 4

Scope of the Examination .................................. 4

Confidentiality of Examination Materials ............ 8

Examination Preparation .................................... 9

Practice Test ....................................................... 9

Test Drive ........................................................... 9

RESULTS INFORMATION ...................................10

Scoring of Examination ....................................10

Results Audits ...................................................10

Results Reports ................................................10

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS ............................12

FEES, APPLICATION AND TEST

ADMINISTRATION ................................................13

Examination Fees .............................................13

Extension Request Guide Notice .....................13

Rescheduling Fees ...........................................14

Partial Fee Waiver ............................................14

Retesting Policy ................................................15

Partial Testing ...................................................15

Administration Schedule ...................................16

Application Procedures .................................... 17

Test Center Procedures .................................. 18

Identification Policy ................................

.......... 18

Reschedule or Cancel a Testing

Appointment ..................................................... 19

No-Show Policy ............................................... 19

Emergencies on the Day of a

Testing Appointment ........................................ 20

Testing Problems on the Day of the

Testing Appointment ........................................ 20

Testing Accommodations ................................ 21

Unacceptable Forms of Documentation .......... 22

XAMINATION REGULATIONS

AND RULES OF CONDUCT ................................ 23

Rules of Conduct ............................................. 23

Privacy and Security ........................................ 24

Examination Misconduct .................................. 25

Irregularities and Appeals ................................ 28

Arbitration Requirement and

Agreement to Arbitrate .................................... 29

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 2

OVERVIEW

ABOUT THIS GUIDE AND EXAMINATION PROGRAM

This document is the official candidate guide to policies and procedures for the Dental Admission Test (“DAT

”

or the “Examination”). It provides information such as application and testing procedures, examination content,

the consequences of rules violations, and scoring. The governing body of the DAT is the American Dental

Association’s (ADA) Council on Dental Education and Licensure (“CDEL” or “Governing Body”). The DAT is

implemented by the Department of Testing Services (“DTS”), which is a shared service of the American Dental

Association. Examinations are administered by Prometric (“Prometric” or “Administration Vendor”). Collectively,

the Governing Body, DTS, and the set of activities, policies, and procedures occurring in support of this

examination are referred to as the “DAT Program” or simply the “Examination Program.”

The Council on Dental Education and Licensure (CDEL) would like to thank you for considering this examination.

CDEL appreciates the time and energy you are devoting in preparation. The agency takes its responsibilities

extremely seriously, and works diligently to help ensure examinations provide valid, reliable and fair evaluations

of candidate knowledge, skills, and abilities.

PURPOSE OF THE EXAMINATION

The DAT is an admission test designed to provide dental education programs with a means to assess an

applicant’s readiness and potential for success in these programs. Programs use the DAT in conjunction with

other admission tools that provide insight into candidate qualifications as they relate to core program

requirements.

Test results are just one factor considered in evaluating applicant potential. Validity studies conducted by DTS

have consistently shown that test scores in conjunction with academic performance are useful and effective in

predicting success in healthcare educational programs. The relative importance of each factor in the admission

process is determined by each educational program.

EXAMINATION FAIRNESS

Fairness, diversity, and inclusion are values that are of critical importance to society and to health professions.

The Governing Body and DTS have devoted and continue to devote substantial time and energy to these

considerations, to comprehensively consider the relevant issues and implement examination programs that are

fair, valid, and reliable, providing candidates with the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and

abilities in support of accurate and valid skill measurement. Fairness efforts are rooted in professional standards

as promulgated in the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing

. This document—published by the

American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, and National Council on

Measurement in Education—provides professional guidance on all aspects of testing, and specifically notes

that fairness is fundamental to validity.

American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, National Council on Measurement in Education. (2014). Standards for Educational and

Psychological Testing.Washington, DC: Author.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 3

Fairness considerations are embedded throughout this Examination Program, affecting every aspect of how this

examination is constructed, administered, scored, and reported, appropriately recognizing the critical importance

of fairness to society and reflecting the core values of those who work closely and care deeply about this

program.

For additional information concerning how fairness considerations have been incorporated into this Examination

Program, please see the document entitled “The DAT and ADAT Programs: Overview of Policies and Procedures

Supporting and Promoting Fairness” on the Examination Program website.

ETHICAL CONDUCT

Health care professionals play an important role in society by providing services that contribute to the overall

health and well-being of individuals and their communities. In light of this responsibility, such professionals must

behave ethically at all times. This obligation begins at the time of application to school and continues through the

educational process, the licensure process, and the entirety of professional practice.

Members of the dental profession voluntarily abide by the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional

Conduct in the interest of protecting patients and maintaining the trust of society. The ADA Principles of Ethics

Conduct can be found at ADA.org/ethics.

Applicants are expected to abide by these ethical standards and to read, understand, and comply with the

examination regulations and rules of conduct for this examination. The obligation to abide by these ethical

standards includes a commitment to honesty, truthfulness, full disclosure, accuracy, fairness, and integrity in all

matters pertaining to examinations completed now and, in the future (examination applications, examination

procedures, applications for licensure, etc.). Misconduct resulting in an irregularity in the examination process is a

very serious matter. Violation of the rules of conduct or examination regulations may result in civil liability, voiding

of examination results, retest penalties, or other appropriate penalties.

The Examination Program Governing Body, licensure boards, and the profession expect strong ethical behavior

from all candidates. The Governing Body annually publishes policies and procedures applicable to misconduct

and irregularities in the application and examination process. This information is available in later sections of this

document. The Governing Body expects all candidates to carefully read and understand this information and their

obligations as candidates for this examination.

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EXAMINATION CONTENT AND PREPARATION MATERIALS

EXAMINATION SPECIFICATIONS

The DAT

is composed of multiple-choice test questions (items) presented in the English language. It consists of

four sections: Survey of the Natural Sciences, Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension, and Quantitative

Reasoning. Both the U.S. customary system (Imperial System) and the metric system (International System) of

measurement are used. Additional information on test content is provided below.

The Examination Program Governing Body, state boards, and the profession expect strong ethical behavior from

all candidates aspiring to be dentists. The Governing Body annually publishes policies and procedures applicable

to misconduct and irregularities in the application and examination process. This information is available in later

sections of this document. The Governing Body expects all candidates to carefully read and understand this

information, recognizing and respecting the obligations held by each candidate in taking this examination.

SCOPE OF THE EXAMINATION

SURVEY OF THE NATURAL SCIENCES (100 ITEMS)

The Survey of Natural Sciences test section consists of 100 items from Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic

Chemistry.

Biology (40 items)

• Cell and Molecular Biology: cell metabolism (including photosynthesis, enzymology), cellular processes

(including membrane transport, signal transduction), thermodynamics, mitosis/meiosis, cell structure and

function, experimental cell biology, biomolecules, and integrated relationships

• Diversity of Life: viruses, Archaebacteria, Eubacteria, Fungi, Protista, Plantae, Animalia, and integrated

relationships

• Structure and Function of Systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, circulatory, lymphatic/immune,

digestive, respiratory, urinary, nervous/sensory, endocrine, reproductive, and integrated relationships

• Genetics: molecular genetics, human genetics, classical genetics, chromosomal genetics, genetic

technology, developmental mechanisms, genomics, gene expression, epigenetics, and integrated

relationships

• Evolution and Ecology: natural selection, population genetics/speciation, animal behavior, ecology

(population, community, and ecosystem ecology), and integrated relationships

General Chemistry (30 items)

• Stoichiometry and General Concepts: percent composition, empirical formulae, balancing equations,

moles and molecular formulas, molar mass, density, and calculations from balanced equations

• Gases: kinetic molecular theory of gases, Dalton’s, Boyle’s, Charles’s, and ideal gas law

• Liquids and Solids: intermolecular forces, phase changes, vapor pressure, structures, polarity, and

properties

• Solutions: polarity, properties (colligative, noncolligative), forces, and concentration calculations

• Acids and Bases: pH, strength, Brønsted-Lowry reactions, and calculations

• Chemical Equilibria: molecular, acid/base, precipitation, calculations, and Le Chatelier’s principle

• Thermodynamics and Thermochemistry: laws of thermodynamics, Hess’s law, spontaneity, enthalpies

and entropies, and heat transfer

• Chemical Kinetics: rate laws, activation energy, and half-life

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 5

• Oxidation-Reduction Reactions: balancing equations, determination of oxidation numbers,

electrochemical calculations, and electrochemical concepts and terminology

• Atomic and Molecular Structure: electron configuration, orbital types, Lewis-Dot diagrams, atomic theory,

quantum theory, molecular geometry, bond types, and sub-atomic particles

• Periodic Properties: representative elements, transition elements, periodic trends, and descriptive

chemistry

• Nuclear Reactions: balancing equations, binding energy, decay processes, particles, and terminology

• Laboratory: basic techniques, equipment, error analysis, safety, and data analysis

Note: An image of the periodic table of the elements is available to candidates as they complete the

General Chemistry section of the DAT:

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 6

Organic Chemistry (30 items)

• Mechanisms: Energetics and Structure – elimination, addition, free radical, substitution mechanisms,

and other mechanisms and reactions

• Chemical and Physical Properties of Molecules: Spectroscopy (1H NMR, 13C NMR, infrared, and multi-

spectra), structure (polarity, intermolecular forces (solubility, melting/ boiling point, etc.)), and laboratory

theory and techniques (TLC, separations, etc.)

• Stereochemistry (structure evaluation): Chirality, isomer relationships, and conformations

• Nomenclature: IUPAC rules and functional groups in molecules

• Individual Reactions of the Major Functional Groups and Combinations of Reactions to Synthesize

Compounds: Alkene/alkyne, aromatic, substitution/elimination, aldehyde/ketone, carboxylic acids and

derivatives, and other. For each area listed above, the following sub-areas apply: general, one-step,

and multi-step

• Acid Base Chemistry: Ranking acidity/basicity (structure analysis and pH/pKa data analysis), and

prediction of products and equilibria

• Aromatics and Bonding: Concept of aromaticity, resonance, atomic/molecular orbitals, hybridization,

and bond angles/lengths

Note on Mechanisms: The following examples show how curved arrows are used to represent organic chemistry

mechanisms on the DAT.

Double/full-headed curved arrows (A) represent the movement of electron pairs; single/half-headed (fishhook)

curved arrows (B) represent the movement of a single electron. Candidates will be expected to predict products

based on starting materials and curved arrows as well as predict curved arrows based on starting materials and

products.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 7

Perceptual Ability (90 Items)

The Perceptual Ability Test is comprised of six subtests that assess the candidate’s ability to accurately perceive

object dimensions and mentally manipulate objects in space. This includes, for example, the ability to differentiate

among angles, or imagine how three-dimensional objects appear when viewed from different angles.

TOPIC DESCRIPTION

Apertures Evaluate a three-dimensional object and determine if it can pass through an opening.

View Recognition Visualize how an object would appear if viewed from different angles.

Angle Discrimination Rank a series of angles from smallest to largest.

Paper Folding Mentally unfold a piece of paper that has been folded one or more times and then hole-

punched.

Cube Counting Evaluate a stack of cubes and determine how much of each cube is exposed.

Spatial Relations / 3D

Form Development

Identify the three-dimensional shape that a flat pattern produces when folded

in a specific way.

Reading Comprehension (50 items)

The Reading Comprehension Test contains three reading passages on various scientific topics. Prior

understanding of the science topics is not a prerequisite to answering the test items. The reading passages

require the ability to read, comprehend, and thoroughly analyze basic scientific information.

Quantitative Reasoning (40 items)

• Mathematical Problems: Algebra (equations and expressions, inequalities, exponential notation, absolute

value, ratios and proportions, and graphical analysis); Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Sufficiency;

Quantitative Comparison; and Probability and Statistics

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 8

• Applied Mathematics (Word) Problems

At right is an image of the digital calculator available to

candidates for the Quantitative Reasoning section of this

examination:

All examination questions are reviewed annually by a team

of subject matter experts before they are used for

examination purposes. This process helps to ensure that

the questions reflect the most recent research and

guidelines. Changes to the test specifications for the DAT

may occur after the publication of this Guide. If changes

occur, a new Guide will be posted to ada.org/DAT and

listed in the document entitled Recent and Forthcoming

Updates to Examinations. This latter document is available

at ADA.org/testing.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF EXAMINATION MATERIALS

Examination items represent confidential, copyrighted intellectual property. Obtaining, using, or distributing

examination questions, also referred to as examination items, is strictly prohibited, regardless of the method

employed (memorization, recording, copying, or other means). This prohibition includes the discussion,

distribution, or online posting of remembered examination questions or answers, in whole or in part.

The use or sharing of examination items violates the examination regulations and rules of conduct of this testing

program. Such activities could provide an unfair advantage and threaten the validity and credibility of the

examination. Since all examinations are copyrighted property, these prohibited activities also violate federal

The Department of Testing Services investigates all reports of candidates’ alleged production, misuse, or

sharing of current examination materials, and will pursue formal action against anyone who violates the

Examination Regulations or federal copyright law. Violations could result in the voiding of examination

results, legal action, or other appropriate penalties.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 9

EXAMINATION PREPARATION

The DAT Program recommends candidates use textbooks and lecture notes as primary sources for study.

A number of resources are used by subject matter experts to create questions for the DAT. These resources

include the following reference texts:

• Practice Test

• Reference Texts

• Prometric Online Tutorial

The DAT Program does not endorse any specific test preparation courses and has no data on the content or

efficacy of test preparation courses designed to prepare candidates for the DAT.

PRACTICE TEST

Candidates interested in preparing for the DAT may utilize practice questions available at ADA.org/dat. All

practice questions are copyrighted.

The intent of practice test questions is to help candidates understand the types of questions that will be

asked on the examination. Candidates are cautioned not to limit preparation for the examination to the

review of practice questions.

TEST DRIVE

Candidates can additionally become familiar with the test administration experience through Prometric’s Test

Drive on Prometric.com. This 30-minute overview includes the following experiences candidates will encounter at

the test center on their official day of testing:

• The scheduling and registration process

• The complete check-in process

• Introduction to test center staff and surroundings

• A 15-minute sample test (a generic test, not examination-specific) demonstrating the testing process

Visit Prometric’s Test Drive at prometric.com for further details and pricing.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 10

RESULTS INFORMATION

SCORING OF EXAMINATION

DAT

results are reported as scale scores. These scale scores are neither raw scores (i.e., the number of

questions answered correctly) nor percentiles. The calculation of scale scores is accomplished using

sophisticated psychometric equating procedures to accurately and fairly evaluate candidate skills. Using scale

scores it is possible to meaningfully compare the performance of candidates who have completed this

examination, even if candidates have completed examination forms containing different examination questions.

Candidates are not penalized for guessing.

Some questions on the test are experimental and are not scored. Data collected on unscored questions is used to

determine whether those questions pass psychometric standards and would be appropriate for use in future test

administrations. Unscored questions look the same to candidates as scored questions.

DAT

scores range from 1 to 30, and are reported in one-point increments. Each educational program makes its

own determination as to what constitutes an acceptable score. As such, there is not an official passing score for

this examination.

Candidates often ask whether they have achieved a good score. To interpret the results of your examination, the

Examination Program recommends consulting the most recent examination norms, which provide information on

candidate’s percentile standing on the examination. This information is available in the following report, which is

publicly available on the Examination Program website:

DAT User’s Manual

The above report is also available to educational programs as they interpret and use candidate test results for

admission purposes.

RESULTS AUDITS

As a routine part of quality assurance procedures, results are audited for accuracy before they are distributed.

Candidates can also request to have their examination results audited or checked for accuracy an additional time,

beyond that indicated above. To request this second audit, login to your account and follow the audit request

instructions. Additional fees will apply (see the Examination Fees section of this Guide). Results audits require

approximately four to six weeks to complete, and must be requested within 30 days of the reporting date indicated

on the official report of results.

RESULTS REPORTS

After a testing session has ended, an unofficial score report will be provided at the test center, unless the test is

taken over multiple days. Scale scores are reported on the unofficial score report. This report is a personal copy;

if an unofficial score report is not provided after completing the examination, candidates should contact the testing

program within five days via an email sent to datexam@ada.org.

The unofficial score report provided by the Administration Vendor is subject to audit as part of the Governing

Body’s quality review process. Falsification and/or misrepresentation of score reports is viewed as an egregious

violation of Examination Program policies, and could result in cancellation of scores, imposition of a mandatory

two-year wait period to retest, or the possibility of a lifetime ban from taking the examination. Such misconduct

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 11

may also have implications for the candidate’s ability to test on other examinations implemented by the ADA’s

Department of Testing Services.

Scores cannot be voided at the request of a candidate after completing any part of the examination.

At the time of application, candidates are asked to select schools and/or programs to receive official results. In so

doing, candidates grant DTS permission to release official results to these schools. Results will be released only

upon authorization, or by decision of the Examination Program in accordance with Examination Program policies

(e.g., in the case of irregularities or falsification of information). Official results are reported electronically within

three to four weeks of the testing date to the selected schools and will be posted to the candidate’s My Testing

Account page at ada.org/dentpin. If a candidate has tested more than once, a history of all testing attempts is

reported.

Candidates should confer with their advisors regarding test results. At the time of application, candidates can

request that scores be made available to advisors at no additional charge.

If a candidate requests on their application that scores be sent to any dental school, then the candidate’s scores

will also be sent to ADEA AADSAS. If a candidate requests to have their scores sent to any of the dental schools

in Texas, then their scores will also be sent to the Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service

[TMDSAS]. The testing program will report official scores to both schools and the aforementioned application

services within three to four weeks of the test date.

The examination application includes a list of potential results recipients. Schools selected at the time of

application are included in the examination fee, regardless of the number of schools selected.

A list of designated recipients cannot be edited or cancelled after it has been submitted. If no schools are

selected on the examination application, then permission has NOT been granted to release official

scores. Candidates must then submit score report requests separately.

Requests for additional score reports must be submitted using the score report request form available at

ADA.org/DAT. Additional fees apply when sending reports to schools or other recipients not selected at

the time of application (see the Testing Fees section of this Guide).

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ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

The DAT

Program does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability,

sexual orientation, or marital status.

Successful participants in the DAT Program typically complete at least one year of college education, including

courses in biology, and general and organic chemistry. Advanced level biology is not required.

Most applicants complete two or more years of college before taking the test.

Dental school applicants are encouraged to take the DAT well in advance of the dental school admission cycle.

Applicants seeking admission to Canadian dental schools should confirm the acceptability of the DAT by

Canadian schools prior to applying for the test.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 13

FEES, APPLICATION AND TEST ADMINISTRATION

EXAMINATION FEES

Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. All fees are in US dollars. The following indicates 2024 testing

fees:

FEE TYPE DESCRIPTION FEE AMOUNT

Examination Fee This fee includes administration and official score reporting to schools

and programs selected at the time of application.

$540

Score Report Fee

(optional)

This fee covers score report requests made after the time of

application. There is no additional charge for score report requests

received at the time of application.

$50 per report

Score Audit Fee

(optional)

For a period of 30 days after a testing appointment, as an optional

service, the program is willing to audit a candidate’s results.

$65

Eligibility Extension

Fee

Candidates can extend their eligibility period for a fee. The extension is

for 45 days and available once per submitted application.

$135

EXTENSION REQUEST GUIDE NOTICE

Candidates may request a 45-day extension (weekends and holidays included) to their eligibility window by

logging into the Testing Account page.

Candidates may request only one extension per application and cannot have an examination appointment

currently scheduled. Any candidate with a scheduled appointment must cancel that appointment before

proceeding with an extension request; failure to do so will result in the extension request being denied. The

eligibility extension request does not supersede any other rules regarding a candidate’s eligibility.

There is an additional fee to obtain the 45-day extension. This fee must be paid at the time the extension request

is submitted and is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Please Note:

After DTS processes a candidate’s application, that candidate is eligible to test for a six-month period, unless

other considerations—including retest rules and program requirements—limit the eligibility period to a shorter

timeframe. Candidates are encouraged to consider their test administration date carefully, as any last-minute

requested changes (e.g., for medical reasons, personal reasons, or due to a missed testing appointment) may not

be approved. There is an additional fee to obtain the 45-day extension. This fee must be paid at the time the

extension request is submitted, and is non-refundable and non-transferable.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 14

RESCHEDULING FEES

The fee to reschedule a testing appointment is determined by the amount of notice provided before the originally

scheduled administration date. Rescheduling fees are subject to change. Sales tax may apply to cancellation and

rescheduling fees. Base fees are as follows:

NUMBER OF DAYS PRIOR TO TESTING APPOINTMENT RESCHEDULING FEES

30 or more business days* $40

5-29 business days* $70

1-4 business days* $150

*Saturday and Sunday are NOT business days

PARTIAL FEE WAIVER

A limited number of partial fee waivers are available to candidates, in cases of severe financial hardship. The

waiver covers 50% of the exam fee, 50% of the exam fee for a candidate’s first retest, and 100% of the fee for a

full ADA DAT Practice Test. Fee waivers also cover any official score reports requested at the time of application.

The waiver does not apply to any charges associated with rescheduling or score reporting requested after the

time of initial application. Candidates who have previously received a fee waiver or who have already taken the

examination are not eligible. A portion of the available fee waivers are reserved for candidates from historically

underrepresented racial and ethnic groups (American Indian/Alaska Native, Black/African American, Latina/o, and

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander) who demonstrate financial hardship.

Candidates can obtain partial fee waiver forms from ADA.org/dat. The DAT Program will review all fee waiver

requests and make final decisions regarding fee waivers. Candidates must register for a DENTPIN

prior to

submitting a fee waiver request.

Candidates may qualify for a partial fee waiver if the following requirements are met:

• Demonstrated financial hardship

• First time taking the examination

• U.S. citizen or resident alien

• Received financial aid from the candidate’s educational institution

Required Documents:

• Fee waiver financial information form (ADA.org/dat)

• Educational institution financial aid award letter

For additional information on partial fee waivers please see the DAT Program website (ADA.org/dat).

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RETESTING POLICY

Candidates are required to submit a new application and fee for each testing attempt. A testing attempt is defined

as any test administration where the candidate has been seated at a computer at a test center and electronically

agreed to the confidentiality statement to start the test.

• Candidates must wait 60 days between testing attempts on the DAT, with a maximum of four (4) such

administrations permitted during any 12-month period of time.

• Candidates with three (3) or more attempts on the DAT must apply for permission to test again, providing

proof of recent application to dental school with each subsequent application to test.

• Subsequent to the candidate’s fifth DAT attempt, the candidate may retest only once per 12-month

period.

• The preceding retest policies are not subject to appeal.

Candidates who are requesting additional testing beyond three attempts must submit their request in writing to

datexam@ada.org and must include one of the following acceptable forms of evidence of their demonstrated

attempt to apply to dental school within the previous 18 months:

• Copy of a completed and submitted ADEA AADSAS application

• Letter of rejection from a dental school

• Letter on school letterhead from a dental school admission officer encouraging the applicant to retest

• Letter on school letterhead from a college or university health profession advisor or instructor confirming

the applicant has applied to dental school

PARTIAL TESTING

Partial testing is not permitted. Applicants are required to take all four sections of the DAT. The lowest possible

scale score is reported for any assigned test not taken. Individuals unable to complete the DAT must submit a

new application and fee to retest.

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ADMINISTRATION SCHEDULE

The table below presents the DAT administration schedule. Candidates must report to the testing center at least

30 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment. The total administration time is five hours and 15 minutes,

including the optional tutorial, scheduled break, and survey.

DAT ADMINISTRATION SCHEDULE

Tutorial (optional) 15 minutes

Survey of Natural Sciences 90 minutes

Perceptual Ability Test 60 minutes

Scheduled Break (optional) 30 minutes

Reading Comprehension Test 60 minutes

Quantitative Reasoning Test 45 minutes

Post Test Survey (optional) 15 minutes

Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes

The optional break after the first two test sections is the only scheduled break. If a candidate chooses to take this

scheduled break, the testing session will resume automatically after 30 minutes have elapsed.

Taking a break at any other time is considered an unscheduled break. During an unscheduled break,

candidates may NOT access personal belongings or prohibited items, study, refer to notes or texts, use a

telephone, eat or drink any food or beverages, or leave the test center. Locker access during

unscheduled breaks is strictly prohibited.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 17

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Before applying to take this examination, candidates must first obtain a Dental Personal Identification Number

(DENTPIN

). Candidates can register for a new DENTPIN or retrieve an existing DENTPIN at ADA.org/DENTPIN.

The DENTPIN

is a unique personal identifier used by U.S. dental and dental hygiene education system and

standardized testing programs, such as the Dental Admission Test (DAT), Advanced Dental Admission Test

(ADAT), and the Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH)—as well as application service programs such as the

American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Postdoctoral Application Support Service (ADEA PASS), the

ADEA Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (ADEA AADSAS), the Texas Medical & Dental

Schools Application Service (TMDSAS), the ADEA Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for

International Dentists (ADEA CAAPID), and the ADEA Dental Hygiene Centralized Application Service (ADEA

DHCAS). In each case, the DENTPIN

is used to uniquely identify individuals, and for the confidential and secure

reporting, transmission, and tracking of test scores and academic data.

Once a DENTPIN is obtained, candidates can submit an application through the Examination Program website. A

new application and fee must be submitted before each testing attempt. Application processing takes place

Monday through Friday during standard US business hours.

After DTS processes a candidate’s application, that candidate is eligible to test for a six-month period, unless

other considerationsꟷincluding retest rules and requirementsꟷlimit the eligibility period to a shorter timeframe.

Candidates are encouraged to choose their test administration date carefully, as any last-minute requested

changes (e.g., for medical or personal reasons) may not be approved.

When registering for a DENTPIN and submitting an application, all provided information must be accurate.

Candidates must use their legal name. When including a middle name, candidates must use either their full

middle name or a middle initial.

If the name on a candidate’s application fails to EXACTLY match the name appearing on IDs brought to the

Administration Vendor test center, the candidate will NOT be permitted to test. As a result, the testing

appointment and application fee will be forfeited and the candidate will be required to submit a new application

and fee before taking the examination.

Changes and corrections to the application (name, birth date, etc.) must be completed at least two weeks prior to

a scheduled testing appointment. Candidates are responsible for identifying any corrections or omissions and

must notify the testing program at dentpin@ada.org.

Updates made to contact information (address, email address, etc.) using the “Update Your DENTPIN

” page at

ADA.org/DENTPIN will NOT automatically update existing test applications and score report requests.

During the application and testing process, candidates will be required to provide their name, DENTPIN

address,

date of birth, and other requested information to allow proper identification by the testing program. This

information must be accurate. If it is determined that a candidate deliberately falsified personal information in the

DENTPIN

system, examination application, or at the test center, scores will be voided and all schools will be

notified. Possible repercussions associated with deliberate falsification include a required two-year waiting period

before taking the examination again, or a complete banning from the Examination Program and any other

examination program implemented by DTS.

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TEST CENTER PROCEDURES

The Administration Vendor will electronically capture the identity of each candidate biometrically (e.g., through

photograph, fingerprint or palm vein scan) before candidates can proceed with testing. Candidates must consent

to these procedures before they are permitted to test. Electronic capture of biometric data allows for a more

efficient return to testing after breaks. Biometric and other identifying information will be retained by the

Administration Vendor and will be utilized for identity verification at potential future test administrations (e.g.,

retesting).

Administration Vendor staff will visually inspect eyeglasses and hair accessories as part of check-in procedures.

Staff may also use an electronic detection wand to scan for electronic devices. Jewelry, except for wedding and

engagement rings, is prohibited. Updates to security protocols at check-in may change with little to no advance

warning. Candidates can view the current check-in procedures at the Administration Vendor’s website.

Administration Vendor staff will observe candidates at all times during the testing appointment. This observation

includes staff walking through the secure testing room, as well as video recording of the candidate’s examination

session. Administration Vendor staff are required to report behavior that might represent a violation of rules and

regulations.

Administration Vendor staff are not authorized to answer questions from candidates regarding examination

content, examination software, specific examination program policies, and scoring.

IDENTIFICATION POLICY

When you arrive at the administration vendor test center to take your examination, two original, current (not

expired) forms of identification (ID)one primary and one secondary will be required. An expired ID WILL NOT be

accepted, even if that ID is accompanied by temporary identification or documentation that a new, valid ID has

been requested.

The primary ID must be a government-issued ID with your photograph, name, and signature. Examples of

acceptable primary IDs include, but are not limited to a driver’s license, passport, or passport card. All IDs, with

the exception of passports, must be in English.

The secondary ID must contain your name and signature. Examples of secondary IDs include, but are not limited

to debit cards, library cards, or a credit card.

Only physical forms of IDs will be accepted by test center staff. Digital or paper copies of IDs will not be accepted.

WARNING! Your DENTPIN record (which is the name on your application) must match your IDs exactly or

you will be denied admission to testing and forfeit your testing/application fee.

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RESCHEDULE OR CANCEL A TESTING APPOINTMENT

To reschedule or cancel a testing appointment, candidates must either use the scheduling tools on the

Administration Vendor website or contact the Administration Vendor using the contact information provided on the

Administration Vendor website. This must be done in advance of the testing appointment. Additional fees apply

and must be paid directly to the Administration Vendor (see the Examination Fees section of this Guide). Local

test centers where candidates complete their examination cannot schedule, reschedule, or cancel your

appointment. Appointments must be canceled or rescheduled by the business day prior to the scheduled test, and

at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled appointment. Candidates will receive a confirmation notice when

rescheduling their testing appointment; please retain a copy of this notice.

NO-SHOW POLICY

Candidates who do not appear for a scheduled testing appointment and do not cancel or reschedule their

appointment by the required time in advance of the test date will forfeit all testing fees. These candidates will be

required to submit a new application and provide corresponding payment to schedule a new appointment.

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EMERGENCIES ON THE DAY OF A TESTING APPOINTMENT

If an emergency occurs on the day of a testing appointment that prevents a candidate from sitting for their

examination, a written request for relief must be submitted to DTS. This request should include applicable

documentation and be sent to testingproblems@ada.org within five business days of the scheduled appointment.

Examples of emergencies and applicable documentation include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Sudden illness on the examination day. Provide a doctor’s note or hospital records confirming that you

were treated on the day of the examination.

• Death in the family on the examination day. Provide a copy of an obituary, prayer card, funeral service

program, or death certificate confirming that the relative passed away or services were held on the day of

the examination.

Testing appointments affected by emergencies occurring prior to the day of the scheduled appointment should be

handled through the Administration Vendor’s rescheduling and cancellation process indicated previously.

TESTING PROBLEMS ON THE DAY OF THE TESTING APPOINTMENT

If a candidate encounters a problem during their examination, the administration should not be resumed until the

issue has been documented and resolved by the test center administrator. If a candidate continues to have issues

with their testing experience after having requested such assistance, they should again alert test center staff and

request that staff resolve the issue. If the issue persists, the candidate should immediately discontinue testing.

Candidates who continue to test despite the presence of continued, significant issues waive their right to appeal

for a remedy on the basis of those encountered issues. Concerns not resolved at the time of testing must be

submitted in writing within five business days of the testing appointment to testingprobl[email protected]rg.

Candidates must contact testingprobl[email protected]g directly, and state the specific relief being requested. Upon

receipt of directly communicated information, DTS will conduct an investigation and notify the candidate of the

outcome. Candidates with documented, unresolved testing issues could be offered the courtesy of a retest within

30 days. If the candidate accepts the retest courtesy, the retest will replace the results of the initial test, and the

initial test results will be voided. Candidates who continue to test despite severe issues — and particularly those

who continue to test, wait for their results to be released, and call DTS afterwards upon receipt of a poor score —

are unlikely to obtain the remedy they seek.

Test center incident reports submitted on behalf of the candidate — and comments submitted by the candidate

via post examination surveys — are considered indirect communication to DTS. These indirect communications

may be considered by DTS as part of its general quality assurance procedures but would not result in specific

relief for the candidate.

Examination results cannot be canceled or adjusted under any circumstances.

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TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS

The Examination Program provides reasonable and appropriate testing accommodations in accordance with the

Americans with Disabilities Act. These accommodations occur for individuals with documented disabilities or

medical conditions who demonstrate a need for accommodation, request an accommodation prior to testing, and

who are approved by the Examination Program to receive accommodations based on the information submitted.

Testing accommodations are offered to those with a qualified disability or a medical condition in order to offer

equal access to testing. Candidates must request testing accommodations with each application, but — for

subsequent administrations — will not be required to submit additional documentation covering the same

disability or condition.

Information concerning specific accommodations provided will not be shared outside of DTS, the test center, and

the Examination Program, and will not be indicated on examination results.

In considering a request from a candidate with a disability, the Examination Program is guided by a focus on

validity. Testing accommodations are provided so all candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate their

knowledge and skills, as opposed to having the measurement of their knowledge and skills inappropriately reflect

a disability.

To determine whether a candidate qualifies for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Actꟷor as

a result of a current medical conditionꟷthe Examination Program requires a complete evaluation of the candidate

as well as a completed and signed Testing Accommodations Request Form. A health care professional

appropriately qualified to evaluate the disability or medical condition must conduct the evaluation. For more

information on accommodations and an explanation of how to request testing accommodations, please consult

the Testing Accommodations Request area on the Examination Program website (see the section above entitled

“Application Procedures”).

If you have a documented disability recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act and require testing

accommodations, you must submit the following three documents prior to testing:

1. A completed testing application

2. The Testing Accommodations Request Form through your DENTPIN account

3. Documentation to support the testing accommodation request

You may submit your testing accommodation request in one of the following ways.

Before applying to test

• You may submit your testing accommodation request prior to submitting your examination application.

The Examination Program will review your request, and if approved, the Examination Program will add

the approved testing accommodation to your record after you complete your examination application.

• To submit a testing accommodation request before applying to test, please sign into your DENTPIN

account and click “Submit Request” from the top ribbon menu. From the dropdown menu, select

“Accommodations Request”.

• Fill out and submit the Testing Accommodation Request Form. This will include a file uploader for

attaching the required supporting documentation. Requested testing accommodations should align with

the identified functional limitation, so that the adjustment to the testing procedure is compliant with federal

guidelines.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 22

While applying to test

• During the application submission process, select “Yes” when asked “Are you requesting testing

accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act?”.

• Fill out the Testing Accommodation Request in the examination application, which will appear after the

payment page. This will include a file uploader for attaching supporting documentation. Requested testing

accommodations should align with the identified functional limitation, so that the adjustment to the testing

procedure is compliant with federal guidelines.

Candidates can schedule a testing appointment AFTER testing accommodation requests have been

approved. Testing accommodations cannot be added to a previously scheduled testing appointment. If

candidates schedule testing appointments before testing accommodations are approved, candidates will

be required to cancel the appointment and pay a rescheduling fee. Candidates requesting

accommodations must receive their eligibility email with approved accommodations before scheduling a

testing appointment.

UNACCEPTABLE FORMS OF DOCUMENTATION

Please do not submit the documents indicated below. They will not be accepted.

• Handwritten letters from health care professionals

• Handwritten patient records or notes from patient charts

• Diagnoses on prescription pads

• Self-evaluations

• Research articles

• Original documents (submit copies only)

• Previous correspondence to the Examination Program (DTS maintains copies of all correspondence)

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 23

EXAMINATION REGULATIONS AND RULES OF CONDUCT

RULES OF CONDUCT

Rules have been established that govern the administration of this examination to ensure results accurately

reflect candidates’ skills. Examination regulations and rules of conduct help preserve the integrity of the

examination process and provide standardized examination administration conditions that yield valid and reliable

results.

The Examination Program bears no responsibility for inaccurate information or inappropriate permissions received

from test center administrators. It is your personal responsibility to understand and comply with the Examination

Regulations indicated in this guide. If a candidate’s conduct is determined to violate the terms set forth in this

Guide, the Examination Program will act to strictly enforce its policies and procedures.

Accessing official examination content prior to testing, breaching the confidentiality of examination content, or any

attempt to subvert the examination process represent violations of test regulations. Conduct occurring before,

during, or after testing that violates the examination regulations and rules of conduct could result in invalidation of

examination results and other penalties.

Candidates must be truthful in completing the application and must abide by all instructions regarding examination

conduct. Failure to comply with the examination regulations and rules of conduct could result in a determination of

the presence of an irregularity, and examination results could consequently be voided. If results are voided as a

result of an irregularity, candidates could be prohibited from testing for a specified time period or, in egregious

cases, from retesting at all. Additionally, candidates could face civil or criminal prosecution.

By applying for the examination, candidates agree to abide by the following Rules of Conduct:

1. The candidate certifies that they are registering for this examination for the purpose indicated in the

Examination Purpose section of this Candidate Guide. The examination may not be taken on behalf of

anyone else or for any reason other than for the purpose indicated. Candidates may not take the

examination to practice or to obtain an advance review of the content

2. Candidates are not allowed to complete an examination for any reason other than that indicated by the

Examination Purpose. If available information suggests a previously eligible candidate might be

completing an examination for other purposes, the Examination Program may revoke the candidate’s

eligibility, and the candidate could be required to re-establish eligibility to take the examination.

3. Candidates will not give, receive, or obtain any form of unauthorized assistance prior to the examination,

during the examination (e.g., in the testing room or when on a break), or subsequent to the examination.

4. Candidates will maintain the confidentiality of examination content at all times. Candidates will not

reproduce or attempt to reproduce examination materials through memorization, recording, copying, or

other means. Candidates will not provide information concerning examination content that might affect the

examination’s ability to accurately assess candidates’ skills, or that might provide unfair advantage to

other candidates. For example, Candidates will neither make use of nor participate in the sharing or

distribution of information regarding examination content or answers (via electronic means or otherwise).

5. Candidates will not bring any unauthorized materials, as listed in the Examination Misconduct section of

this Guide, into the secure testing area. All unauthorized materials must be placed in an assigned locker

and may not be accessed during testing.

6. Candidates will not remove information about the exam (written, printed, recorded, or other) from the test

center.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 24

7. Candidates will comply with Administration Vendor test center policies and procedures and will not create

a disturbance in the test center.

8. Candidates will not tamper with the computer testing equipment and facilities.

9. Candidates will cooperate fully with any investigations involving testing irregularities and agree to have

their examination analyzed to detect aberrancies.

10. This Examination is a secure examination protected by U.S. copyright laws. Any unauthorized disclosure

of the examination’s content could result in civil liability, criminal penalties, voiding of examination results,

or other appropriate penalties.

Test content (in whole or in part) is prohibited from being disclosed before, during, or after the test to anyone,

including but not limited to: family, friends, classmates, colleagues, or test preparation organizations. This applies

to any content disclosed through discussions, emails, in writing, online (e.g., blogs, social media, websites), or

otherwise.

Candidates who receive unreleased test items should immediately contact DTS at testsecurity@ada.org, and

should NOT review the materials they have received. Candidates who have been found to be in possession of

such information—or to have participated in the distribution of this information—may have their examination

results voided. Penalties might be imposed subsequent to discovery and investigation of the original incident,

which could occur years after the incident itself.

Candidates are encouraged to report any activities where information about examination questions is disclosed,

so that DTS can investigate and take any necessary action. Report such activity to DTS at testsecurity@ada.org.

PRIVACY AND SECURITY

The Examination Program will maintain the privacy and security of candidates’ personal information using industry

standard methods. DTS will collect and retain personal information to serve candidate needs, administer the

examination, fulfill Examination Program responsibilities (e.g., to maintain the integrity of the test and detect and

prevent unlawful activity), and fulfill legal requirements. Examination results shall be retained indefinitely, along

with testing records and candidates’ personal information.

Before the examination is administered, candidates will be required to provide a written release concerning the

collection of their biometric information. Biometrics are collected by the Administration Vendor for purposes of

verifying identity and detecting and preventing unlawful activity; the data is stored securely by the Administration

Vendor.

As applicable and in accordance with the purpose of each specific Examination Program, examination results will

be released or reported to state boards, education programs, or other entities upon written candidate

authorization or designation by electronic means through the electronic application or score report request form.

Examination results may be released or reported in the absence of such authorization when policies indicate that

such notification is appropriate (e.g., notification of state boards concerning an irregularity). Examination results

may be released to education programs to enable those programs to understand student outcomes. For research

and policymaking purposes, examination results may be released — with personally identifying information

removed — to individuals or entities that the Examination Program deems legitimately interested. Information

regarding privacy policies is made available to all candidates and the public.

The ADA provides information technology support for the Examination Program and uses data security

procedures to protect the integrity of personal and exam information. Security safeguards include administrative,

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 25

technical, and physical safeguards over data and data processing systems. For information on policies relating

to your use of the ADA website, please refer to the Privacy Notice and Terms of Use available at

ADA.org/privacy-notice.

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 26

EXAMINATION MISCONDUCT

The Examination Program strives to report results that accurately reflect the skills and performance of each

candidate. The standards and procedures for administering each examination are intended to provide candidates

with a reasonable opportunity to demonstrate their skills, and to facilitate accurate evaluation of those skills.

The Examination Program reserves the right to withhold, void, or invalidate any result when, in the Examination.

Program’s judgment, it is reasonable to question the validity of the result. Reasons for withholding, voiding, or

invalidating results, or for imposing other appropriate penalties, could include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Unusual answer patterns

• Atypical score increases from one examination attempt to another

• Discrepancy in, or falsification of, a candidate’s identification

• Information indicating that a candidate has engaged in misconduct or a violation of the examination

regulations, rules of conduct, or test center procedures

• Sharing of remembered exam questions or answers. This includes sharing through social media

platforms, online discussion forums, or other means

• Taking an examination on behalf of another individual, or having another individual take an examination

on your behalf

• Falsification of application information or supporting documents

• Falsification of a candidate’s results or results report

• Inconsistent performance on different sections of the exam from one examination attempt to another

• Improper access to secure exam content

• Evidence is available concerning the presence of an examination administration irregularity

• Any other information indicating the results might not be valid.

When examination results are voided or invalidated, the candidate is notified in writing. This notice includes

information about the decision and the procedure for appeal. Results will remain voided until an appeal process

has been completed, or the time for appeal has expired.

When previously reported results are voided, the score report recipient will be notified in writing that the result has

been voided.

If it is determined a candidate has engaged in irregular behavior, information regarding this determination

becomes a part of the candidate’s record. At its sole discretion, the Examination Program may elect to send a

summary report documenting the incident to legitimately interested parties. This would include all parties to whom

a candidate has instructed results be sent (both currently and in the future).

In situations where an irregularity has occurred, individuals who are involved or implicated with respect to the

occurrence of the irregularity, or who are reasonably believed to have witnessed the irregularity, could be asked

to provide information concerning the irregularity.

The Examination Program reserves the right to pursue other remedies, including prosecution of anyone

whose conduct unlawfully undermines the security of the examination or the integrity of the examination

process.

No personal items are permitted in the secure testing area. Any personal belongings brought to the test center

must be stored in a designated locker; storage is limited. Personal belongings may be inspected. Notes or any

materials accessed during the examination or on an unscheduled break could be confiscated. Accessing personal

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 27

belongings or a locker during an unscheduled break violates the examination regulations. Test administrators are

not authorized to provide permission to candidates to access personal belongings or lockers during an

unscheduled break.

Items that are prohibited from the secure testing area include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Books, notes, study materials, scratch paper, tissues, and markers

• Personal earplugs not previously approved by the Administration Vendor. Headphones NOT provided to

you by the Administration Vendor.

• Dental instruments, models, or materials

• Slide rules, paper, calculating devices, rulers, and other measuring devices (except those items approved

in advance under testing accommodations)

• Electronic devices such as cell phones, recording devices, iPods, tablets, and headsets

• Tote bags, purses, wallets, backpacks, and briefcases

• Highlighters, pens, erasers, pencils, dictionaries, and translators

• Food, candy, gum, and beverages (except those items approved in advance under testing

accommodations)

• Outerwear, such as coats, jackets, gloves, or head coverings (religious attire is allowed)

• Good luck charms, statues, religious or spiritual items, and similar objects

• Watches (digital, analog, or smart) or timing devices (a timer is provided on the computer screen during

the examination)

• Magnifying devices

• Jewelry (except for wedding and engagement rings)

The test center will provide two note boards (without graph lines) and two low-odor fine tip markers during the

examination. Used note boards will be replaced by test center staff upon request. Scratch paper, pencils, and

markers not furnished by the testing center are prohibited. You are not guaranteed to receive graph lines on your

provided materials.

Candidates may not write on the note boards before the test begins or during scheduled breaks. The note boards

should not be folded, bent, distorted, or modified in any manner. Markers cannot be used on any surface other

than the note boards. Candidates may not touch the monitor during the examination. All items provided must be

returned to the test administrator before leaving the test center. Test center note boards will not be stored for

multiple day examination use. Any notes taken will be surrendered at the end of each testing day and erased.

Candidates may not engage in conversation with others during testing or while on an unscheduled break.

Discussing the examination is strictly prohibited.

Test center administrators will report the activity of candidates who take unscheduled breaks.

During an unscheduled break, candidates may NOT access personal belongings or prohibited items,

study or refer to notes or texts, use a telephone, eat or drink any food or beverages from lockers, or leave

the test center. Test administrators are NOT authorized to provide permission to engage in these

activities.

Although the examination is administered under strict supervision and security, examination irregularities can

sometimes occur. Examination results could be voided based upon a breach of examination security, invalid

examination conditions, or candidate violations of the examination regulations, rules of conduct, or test center

procedures. If irregularities are detected during the examination, or evidence of irregular behavior is disclosed

DAT 2024 Candidate Guide | 28

when the examination is scored or afterward, those involved will have their examination results voided and face

appropriate penalties.

Failure to comply with examination regulations, rules of conduct, and test center procedures could result

in a determination of the presence of an irregularity, and examination results could be withheld, canceled,

considered invalid, or another appropriate penalty could be imposed. Candidates might also be directed

to leave the test center before the examination is completed. If results are withheld or invalidated, or

other penalties are proposed or imposed as the result of an irregularity, candidates could be prohibited

from testing and other appropriate penalties could be imposed.

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IRREGULARITIES AND APPEALS

An irregularity is defined as a situation in which there could be a question about the validity of examination results

in accurately reflecting the ability and skills of a candidate.

For example, such questions could be raised when:

• there is communication between candidates during the testing session.

• unauthorized assistance occurs.

• candidates have inappropriate access to examination content (e.g. remembered questions or answers

are shared by email, online posting, or other means).

• conduct prohibited by the examination regulations, rules of conduct, or test center procedures occurs or

examination administration disruptions are present, including natural disasters and other emergencies.

When an irregularity is identified, results for the candidate(s) involved will be voided pending resolution of the

corresponding appeal(s). If an appeal is denied or no appeal is filed, the results of the candidate(s) involved could

remain voided and/or other appropriate remedies imposed.

Rule violations and/or irregularities occurring in one Examination Program implemented by DTS may result in

penalties that impact a candidate’s ability to test in another Examination Program implemented by DTS.

Candidates whose results are subject to being voided are notified by written correspondence and provided with a

copy of the Limited Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates. Appeals must be submitted in writing within 30

days of notification of the irregularity. Appeals must be submitted in writing within 30 days of notification of

the irregularity. Appeals must clearly state the specific relief being requested and include corresponding

arguments, evidence, and documentation in support of the request.

The candidate will be notified of the appeal decision within 60 days after receipt of the appeal.

When considering an appeal, the Examination Program strives to ensure that examination results accurately

reflect candidates’ skills, and that the appealing candidate has an opportunity equal to, but not greater than, the

opportunity provided to other candidates.

Results will be voided when there is a reasonable and good faith basis to do so. If it is determined that voiding

results is not warranted under the circumstances, the results will be released.

Candidates should be aware that irregularities — other than natural disasters and emergencies beyond the

control of the candidate — are considered to be a serious breach of the examination process.

The Examination Program strives to handle irregularities and their investigation in a confidential, professional, fair,

and objective manner.

Candidates should be aware that reports of irregularities may have consequences beyond the voiding of results or

the imposition of other appropriate penalties.

• Information regarding the irregularities may be brought to the attention of school authorities, regulatory

agencies, or other entities, by other sources.

• Additional information concerning a candidate may surface within the context of an investigation into an

irregularity.

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Candidates are encouraged to report suspicious activity or observations of violations of the examination

regulations to DTS at testsecurity@ada.org.

ARBITRATION REQUIREMENT

Arbitration has become an increasingly common way to resolve legal differences. Generally speaking, the

advantages of arbitration over traditional lawsuits are that arbitration is less expensive and issues are resolved in

less time. If a candidate wishes to pursue a dispute that has not been resolved by the appeal process mentioned

above and detailed in the Limited Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates, the candidate must use the

procedure described in the following Agreement to Arbitrate.

AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE

1. In the event that any legal dispute arises between you and the Examination Program, in connection with

your participation in this Examination Program, where that dispute is not resolved by the appeals process

detailed in this Guide and elsewhere, you agree that the exclusive means for resolving the dispute shall

be Binding Arbitration as described by the terms of this Agreement. This means that you waive the rights

you may have to resolve the dispute in a court of law, or by any other means that might otherwise be

available to you.

2. The American Dental Association (“ADA”) agrees to be similarly bound except that the ADA reserves its

full rights to pursue injunctive and other appropriate relief in any state or federal court in cases of unfair

competition or violations of, or threats to violate, any intellectual property rights of the ADA. With respect

to any action filed by the ADA pursuant to this paragraph 2, you consent to submit to the jurisdiction of the

state or federal court in which the ADA seeks relief.

3. Arbitration proceedings initiated pursuant to this Agreement to Arbitrate shall be conducted in accordance

with the then current Consumer Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association. The arbitrator’s

award shall be binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction.

Information about the American Arbitration Association, its rules, and its forms are available from the

American Arbitration Association website, www.adr.org.

4. In the event of Arbitration, and except to the extent the Consumer Arbitration Rules provide otherwise, the

parties shall bear their own costs and attorneys’ fees associated with the Arbitration proceedings, unless

the arbitrator directs one of the parties to pay the other’s costs, or attorneys’ fees, or both.

5. To the fullest extent permitted by law, no Arbitration brought pursuant to this Agreement shall be joined to

any Arbitration involving any other party whether through “Class Arbitration” proceedings or otherwise.

6. This Agreement is part of the application to take this examination. Your assent to be bound by it is a

requirement for taking the examination, but you can only sit for the examination if you also fulfill all other

conditions imposed by the Examination Program.