The UMKC School of Dentistry Reserved Admissions Program allows highly qualified, ambitious, and talented students to reserve a seat in a future dental class. Preference given to students who are Missouri or Kansas residents.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for the Reserved Admission Program, the following requirements must be met:
- 3.6 math and science GPA upon completion of their fourth college semester
- Completion of 15 credits hours or more each semester
- Evidence of the following:
- Demonstrated investigation of the profession of dentistry. It is strongly suggested that candidates observe in a minimum of 3+ different dental offices (the offices of general dentists and specialists) and acquire a minimum of 80-100 hours of dental office observation or dental work experience.
- Evidence of social conscience and compassion. It is strongly suggested that applicants are actively involved in 3+ volunteer activities.
- Indication of fundamental personal character. A minimum of three letters of recommendation or one pre-health advisory committee letter is required.
- Evidence of critical thinking and problem-solving ability (e.g., performance in courses requiring this skill such as in laboratory segments, in formal logic or in research experiences).
- Established effective interpersonal/communication skills (i.e., an ability to communicate orally and in writing, a capacity to listen, a personality conducive to forming personal and/or professional relationships, an involvement in a range of extracurricular activities, especially those in which significant leadership roles have been taken).
- Demonstrated ability to balance full academic schedules with extracurricular involvement and/or employment (i.e., effective/efficient management of time).
- Students must also submit the following required materials during the application process:
- Reserved Admission Program application
- UMKC general admissions application
- Math & science GPA calculator spreadsheet
- Official college transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation (must include at least one from a faculty member and one from a dentist)
- Digital personal photo
- An interview will dental school faculty
Students admitted to the program are required to complete the following to maintain their status in the program:
- 3.6 math and science GPA
- Completion of 15 credits hours or more each semester, leading to the culmination of a bachelor’s degree
- DAT Academic Average (AA): 420 (20) average for accepted students
- Prerequisite courses (see UMKC’s website for more details)
Program Timeline
- By fall of sophomore year: If you are interested in applying for the program, identify yourself to Annie Lee, Ph.D., annie.lee@rockhurst.edu, or Laura Salem, Ph.D., laura.salem@rockhurst.edu. Current Rockhurst students may apply to the program during the summer between their sophomore and junior years of college.
- Spring: Reserved Admission Program application becomes available
- July 1: Application deadline — all supporting documents must be postmarked by this date
- Fall: Interviews take place.
For more details on the Reserved Admission Program, visit UMKC's Reserved Admission Program webpage.