Students interested in pursuing dental school and a career in dentistry are invited to apply for the University of Minnesota Dental School 2025-26 Discover Dental School (DDS) program.
This free, hybrid program is designed to give students a deeper understanding of the dental profession and the skills they need to pursue a career in dentistry. The DDS program provides:
- Live Zoom sessions: June 2025 – April 2026
- Online learning and assignments: Accessible anytime via Canvas
- In-person experience: A three-day intensive hands-on session at the University of Minnesota’s School of Dentistry in May 2026
The program runs June 2, 2025 – May 16, 2026, and is completely free for participants!
Our Commitment to Increasing Access
The School of Dentistry is committed to expanding pathways to dentistry for students from underserved and underrepresented communities, rural areas, and diverse backgrounds. Preference will be given to:
- Rising sophomores in college
- Students who are Minnesota residents
- Students from rural communities
- First-generation college students
- Students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
- Individuals who identify as disadvantaged
Watch this video to learn more about the program:
Discover Dental School Program Overview
Eligibility Requirements
All students who will have completed at least two full semesters of undergraduate education following high school graduation by the time the program starts are eligible to apply. Please note that PSEO/IB/CIS/AP coursework completed during high school does not apply toward eligibility.
How to Apply
Applications are required, and here’s what you’ll need:
- A completed application form: https://umn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9GecU9OlU1tpcfY
- Personal essays
- Unofficial transcript(s)
- An updated resume
- The name of one professional reference
Important Dates
- Priority Application Deadline: Friday, January 31, 2025
- Final Application Deadline: Monday, February 17, 2025
(Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.) - Notification of Acceptance: By Monday, March 3, 2025
Questions? Contact Susan Wold, Assistant Director, Office of Admissions, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota at skramer@umn.edu