Multiple Admits for DDS in the US

There are few times in our life when we face a good problem. Making a decision when you have multiple acceptances is one of them. What do you do next?

We have compiled a list of factors you should consider before making a decision. Not all questions mentioned below would suit everyone. This is a thought-through guide to help each applicant scour through and make their own unique list. It’s highly recommended you reach out to current students and alumni from the respective schools and compare all the responses to the prompts mentioned below before you finalize your choice.

JOBS 

What percentage of the graduating class gets a job before graduation? 

What is the average pay from the first job? How does it increase over the first couple of years? 

Do you look for jobs during the last semester or even a year before you graduate? 

Which states are jobs more commonly available to your graduates? 

Which are the standard dental organizations/corporates that employ the graduates? 

Do you know of students who graduate from the program, try to get jobs, are unable, and end up returning to their home country? 

POST-PROGRAM OPTIONS 

What additional clinical training do you need to undergo after graduating and before practicing in a job setup? 

What percentage of students from the class go on to do a residency? 

Apart from clinical practice and residency, what are the other employment options available for students? 

How strong is the alumni network? How does the school help with connecting with alumni? 

PROGRAM-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS 

In how many installments can you pay the tuition? 

Can you do part-time jobs during the course? 

Opportunities to have contacts with other traditional dental students who are not in the international program?

How many months of actual clinical experience working on patients do we get in school?

How different is the cost of living while staying close to the school vs. away from the school?

How many students own a car? 

What is it likely socially? Did you have good friends within the program? 

When did you start looking for housing? Did the school help, or what was that process? 

Do I need to be there to look for housing, or do most students find a place and enter a lease over the phone/online? 

Based on your experience as a former/current international student, are you happy with your choice or have any regrets

FINALLY, A QUICK COMPARISON GUIDE

Clinical Exposure - patients, procedures (number, types)

Length of the program - the shorter program is better because you start earning earlier.

Climate - you will be staying in that place for at least two years

Family living nearby - dental school can be challenging, and family/friends can be a good support system.

Job Prospects – it’s generally the same across all programs but not a bad idea to confirm

Rank/ Reputation – It may not matter during the job hunt but might give you an edge if you plan on doing a residency.

Research Reputation – if you are interested in pursuing research.

Campus – safe or not; culture

Total expenses – especially if you are taking out a loan.

Will I need a car? – this will be an additional expense

Which school makes you happy? - if you visited both schools for your interview, where did you like the students more or see yourself fitting in better

What does your heart want? – this is at the end of the list, but the most important to consider

I hope you will be able to make your decision and will be fully satisfied with it. Good luck with the next phase of your life!

Dr. Nikita

Clinical Director – Caapid Simplified