Pre-Dental Timeline

This timeline serves as a general guide for the Pre-Dental track at Florida State University. Individual pathways may differ based on factors like transfer or accelerated credits, course availability, study abroad, or a gap year. For tailored guidance, meet regularly with your FSU Pre-health Advisor and your major academic advisor via Campus Connect.

 
 

Year 1

Courses: General Biology I & II (BSC 2010/2011), General Chemistry I (CHM1045 + lab), English, Math, General Psychology.

  • Resources:

    • Join FSU Pre-Dental Society and other pre-health clubs via NoleCentral.

    • Schedule a Pre-health Advising appointment via myFSU Campus Connect to discuss course sequencing and accelerated credits.

  • Experience:

    • Begin shadowing dentists and exploring various dental specialties.

    • Volunteer in healthcare or community service settings in Tallahassee.

SUMMER 1 – CLINICAL EXPOSURE

  • Obtain direct or observational dental experience (e.g., dental assistant, clinic volunteer, mission trips).

  • Attend FSU Pre-health workshops (e.g., Pre-health 101) and plan for long-term clinical experience.

 

Year 2

Courses: Organic Chemistry I & II (CHM2210/2211 + labs), Physics I (PHY 2053C or 2048C), Statistics, Microbiology (MCB 4403/L).

  • Continue shadowing and building dental-related experiences.

  • Begin research or leadership roles in student organizations.

  • Schedule an advising appointment to confirm readiness for the Pre-Dental track.

SUMMER 2 – TEST PREP & EXPERIENCE

  • Continue clinical work, shadowing, or research.

  • Begin studying for the DAT (Dental Admission Test).

 

Year 3

Courses: Biochemistry (BCH 4053), Physics II (PHY 2054C or 2049C), upper-level electives in anatomy, physiology, or health sciences.

  • Take the DAT by spring or early summer.

  • Draft your personal statement and request at least three letters of recommendation, including one from a dentist and one from a science professor.

  • Attend workshops on interview prep and AADSAS (dental school application) strategies.

SUMMER 3 – SUBMIT APPLICATION

  • Submit your AADSAS application (opens in May; submit by June for early consideration).

  • Continue professional and clinical involvement.

  • Prepare for supplemental applications and interviews.

YEAR 4

Courses: Complete major and elective requirements, finalize GPA.

  • Attend dental school interviews.

  • Continue clinical and leadership activities.

  • Meet with your Pre-health Advisor to prepare for matriculation or gap year planning.

  • Graduate!

GAP YEAR (OPTIONAL)

  • Strengthen academics, complete a post-bacc program, or gain additional experience if needed.

  • Meet with your major advisor and Pre-health Advisor for tailored gap year planning or reapplication strategy.