Question 1
One assistant can sterilize a batch of instruments in 4 hours, and another can do it in 6 hours. Working together at these rates, how many hours will they take?
How much does the DAT cost?
The DAT exam fee is $580 in 2026. It covers the test and sending your scores to the dental schools you choose when you apply. Fees are non-refundable and in US dollars.
| Examination fee | $580, including score reports to schools chosen at application |
|---|---|
| Later score reports | $55 each |
| Score audit | $105, within 30 days of your appointment |
| Eligibility extension | $150 for 45 days, once per application |
| Rescheduling | $50 with 30 or more business days' notice, $70 with 5 to 29, $150 with 1 to 4 |
The partial fee waiver
The ADA offers a limited number of partial fee waivers each calendar year to candidates in severe financial hardship. A waiver covers 50% of the examination fee for a first attempt and for one retest, and includes one free full DAT practice test from the ADA. It does not cover rescheduling or score-reporting charges. Waivers are first come, first served, and you must not have taken the DAT or had a waiver before. On 13 Oct 2026 the ADA's page said all 2026 waivers had been granted and more would open on January 1, 2027.
Retakes
Every attempt needs a new application and fee. You must wait 60 days between attempts, with at most four in any 12 months, and after three attempts you must show proof of a recent dental school application to test again.
Try 1 questions
Next step
The ADA's Dental Admission Test page and 2026 Candidate Guide
Questions people ask
How much is the DAT in 2026?
The examination fee is $580. It includes score reports to the schools you select when you apply.
Is the DAT fee refundable?
No. The ADA's fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Can I get the DAT fee waived?
The ADA gives a limited number of partial fee waivers covering 50% of the fee to first-time candidates with severe financial hardship, first come, first served.