Frequently Asked Questions

1) How many students do you accept every year?

35-40.

2) What is the average GPA?

3.45 overall and 3.25 science. 

3) How many people apply?

Usually around 200.

4) Where do I find the application?

There are two applications: One for The School of Dentistry and One for the Undergraduate School. Both are due by February 1.

The application for the School Of Dentistry will be available in October at:  http://www.usc.edu/hsc/dental/admissions/dhp_admissions.htm#dh-bs.
The application is in a PDF format. Please fill it out and mail it to the School Of Dentistry. 

The application to the Undergraduate School can be found at:  http://www.usc.edu/admission/undergraduate/apply/.

5) When are interviews?

Interviews are held in late March or early April. 

6) Are there group interviews or individual?

We hold group interviews and, rarely, individual interviews.

7) Is there an age cap?

No. While the average age was 24 years old last year, we have students above and below that number.

8) Is there a limit how long ago I took my prerequisite coursework?

There is no time limit. We recommend no longer than 5 years.

9) How can I find out if my coursework will transfer?

You can go to our articulation website: https://camel.usc.edu/articagrmt/artic_hist_range.aspx and type in your school and dates that you attended to see what coursework will transfer.

10) If I have trouble with the School Of Dentistry application, who do I contact?

Contact the Office of Admissions at (213)-740-2851.

11) What kind of financial aid is available to me?

If you have financial aid questions, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at (213)-740-2861. 

12) Do I need to have a bachelor’s degree in order to get into the program?

No. We do not require any degree to start Dental Hygiene. 

13) Do I need to finish all of the prerequisites and GE’s before I apply to the Dental Hygiene program?

No. You can have coursework in progress for the Spring and Summer. As long as all of your coursework will be done before Orientation, we will accept it. Note: Not all courses are offered during Summer Session. Please make sure your course will be offered if you plan to take it during that time.

14) Can I take coursework online?

As long as the course is not a science or a lab and the course will transfer to USC, an online course will count.

15) Can I shadow current Dental Hygiene students?

You can set up an appointment through the Office of Admissions at (213)-740-2851.

16) Is experience important?

Experience is important. If you have not shadowed a Dental Hygienist, volunteered, or worked in a dental office, it is highly encouraged that you do. The program is rigorous and it is important to know that Dental Hygiene is the right career for you.

17) Do I need to send letters of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation are not required. If you have a letter of recommendation from a dentist whom you have shadowed or worked with, you can send it.