u/Deep-Instruction7083

Does anyone have a good video on the whole process of registering for the CASPER and any tips on how to study for it? I know realistically, I should only spend around 1-3 hours "Preparing" for it. Unless im undermining how hard it is, I would love some advice!

Also the next 2 dates to take it are March 14th or March 28th. Should I take it March 14th knowing nothing about the exam or should I take it March 28th? I dont want to delay my application too much

I was originally supposed to graduate in Spring 2026, but I had to withdraw from a semester of school because of some family medical issues. As a result, I’ll now be graduating in Fall 2026 instead.

Will dental schools view this negatively, or are they generally understanding about situations like this affecting graduating times? I’m a little worried about how it might look on my application, but I’ve maintained a strong upward GPA trend and have consistently taken heavy course loads (18–20 credits per semester), so it’s definitely not a case of me slacking off or trying to take the easy route.

Has anyone been in a similar situation or know how admissions committees typically view later graduations?

I keep hearing that some schools will wait for your updated DAT score (if you are retaking) and some won't even wait for you and just move on.

Which one is it?

Hello!

I’m planning to retake my DAT because I’m not too happy with my score, but I still want to apply this cycle. I’ve been studying a little during the semester, just not as much as I would’ve liked. Once the semester ends, I’m planning to really lock in and study hard, and I’m aiming to retake it around mid-June to early July.

I know you can submit your application without a DAT score and it’ll just be put on hold. I also know you can apply with your current score and let schools know you’re planning to retake it, then update them later.

But I’ve heard that if you apply with a lower score, even if you say you’re retaking it, some schools might not wait for your new score because the cycle is so competitive. Is that actually true?

If so, would it be better to wait until I get my new score before submitting? Or should I still apply as early as possible and just let schools know I have a retake coming up? I feel like I’m taking it early enough that timing shouldn’t hurt me too much, but I just want to make the smartest move.

(I also have everything ready, such as essays, descriptions, ECs, and my GPA/upwards trend is good enough to the point where I wouldn't get rejected off that alone)