Update: ADEA offers updated guide to dental schools

Planning to apply to dental school next year? The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) has a resource that could streamline the process.

The 2008 "ADEA Official Guide to Dental Schools" offers detailed information on dental schools in the U.S. and Canada, and much more. The guide is currently on sale for $35.

"ADEA is proud to release the 46th edition of the "ADEA Official Guide to Dental Schools" and looks forward to assisting those interested in pursuing dental education," said James Q. Swift D.D.S., president of the ADEA in a press release.

Part I of the guide offers an introduction to the world of dentistry, a description of various specialities, different practice options, and other professional opportunities. Peppered with profiles of dental students, and tables and charts -- that cover everything from undergraduate majors of dental school applicants to ideas about what to write in your essay -- the guide offers step-by-step information on the application process.

Confused about where to apply? Don't jump right into applying to the top ten schools.

"Dental school applicants should be aware that there are propriety publications available that purport to rank dental schools according to the quality of their programs..applicants should view these rankings with caution," the guide states. Each school and applicant is unique and students should do their own investigation to find the right school, note the guide's editors.

The guide offers some tools that can help.

Students can sneak a peek at the statistical breakdown of different dental schools by student age, gender, ethnicity, GPA, and educational background.

Those overwhelmed by finances can weigh their options by poring over the information on student loans (federal and private), scholarships, financial aid options, and the best ways to pay off loans.

The guide also offers the contact information of all major dental organizations.

Part II of the publication contains updated profiles and details the unique characteristics of all U.S. and Canadian dental schools, much of it in tabular form.Each profile offers:

• General information
• Academic requirements
• Dental Admissions Test (DAT) requirements
• Required GPA
• Applications deadlines, and acceptance dates
• Demographic description of applicants
• Objectives of curriculum
• Special programs and services
• Costs
• Financial aid offered

The guide (available only in print) costs $35; $29 each for orders of 10 copies or more. You can place an order by contacting ADEA publications at [email protected]. The report will be available online later this year.