Old DAT to New DAT Score Converter.
Plus, Everything you need to know about the new DAT scoring system.
For those planning to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), important changes are coming that will affect how your scores are reported. Starting in March 2025, the American Dental Association (ADA) will introduce a new scoring system for the DAT, shifting from the traditional 2-digit score scale (1 to 30) to a more precise 3-digit scale (200 to 600). This page will break down these changes, explain why they're happening, and provide details on how they will impact you.
What's Happening?
Beginning
March 1, 2025, the ADA transitioned to a new 3-digit scoring system for the DAT to assist dental program admissions officers and reduce interpretational errors. Key updates include:
- All scores reported to ADEA AADSAS will use the new 200-600 scale, with values reported in 10-point increments (e.g., 200, 210, 220).
- Exam content remains unchanged - the subject areas and question types will stay consistent with current versions.
- Unofficial scores will no longer be available at test centers due to the increased precision requirements of the new scoring system.
- Tests taken March 1, 2025 or later will automatically receive 3-digit scores through ADEA AADSAS.
- Results from tests before March 1, 2025 will be psychometrically converted to the 3-digit scale for ADEA AADSAS reporting, while remaining available in their original 2-digit format via the DTS Hub.
Why Is It Happening?
The ADA's decision to move to a 3-digit score scale stems from a desire to enhance the precision and accuracy of the DAT. According to the ADA, this new system allows for a more refined measure of a candidate's abilities, helping both dental schools and students better understand performance.
The updated scoring scale is a result of improvements in psychometric analysis, which focuses on measuring skills and abilities in a more detailed and accurate way.
How It Affects You
For prospective dental students, this change introduces a few new considerations:
- No Immediate Unofficial Scores: As mentioned, you will no longer receive an unofficial score report right after completing the test at the exam center. This means you'll need to wait longer for your official scores to be available. If you plan to take the DAT around application deadlines, it's crucial to factor in this added waiting time.
- Consistency in Content: While the way your score is reported is changing, the content of the exam is not. If you've been preparing based on the current format, your study materials and strategies remain valid.
- 2-Digit and 3-Digit Scores: If you take the DAT before March 1, 2025, your scores will be reported on the 2-digit scale and will remain valid. Starting March 1, 2025, all scores will be reported on the new 3-digit scale (200-600). Scores from prior administrations will be psychometrically converted to the 3-digit scale for reporting to ADEA AADSAS. However, original 2-digit scores will still be accessible in the DTS Hub for reference.
How to Convert Old Scores to New Scores
The ADA has released a Concordance Table to help you and dental schools compare the 2-digit and 3-digit scores.
For anyone who needs to convert their old scores to the new format, you can use our Score Conversion Tool. This tool simplifies the process by providing an easy way to input your old scores and get an estimate of their new equivalents on the 3-digit scale and vice versa. Access our new tool here:
DAT Score Converter.
What Should You Do Next?
Here's how you can best navigate these upcoming changes:
- Plan Your Test Date Wisely: If you're taking the test before March 2025, you'll receive the 2-digit score. After March 1, 2025, you'll receive the 3-digit score. Choose your test date based on when you feel most prepared, but also keep these changes in mind.
- Consistency in Content: While the way your score is reported is changing, the content of the exam is not. If you've been preparing based on the current format, your study materials and strategies remain valid.
- Use Our Conversion Tool: Check out our score conversion tool! It will help you quickly convert your old scores to the new format and vice versa. This can be a useful resource as you navigate the transition to the 3-digit scale.
- Stay Informed: As this transition approaches, make sure to stay informed by visiting the ADA's website for the latest updates and checking out our site for more resources to guide you through the process.
Good luck on your DAT and dental school journey!