Frequently Asked Questions About the Iowa Dental Advanced Standing Program

Q: How many people are accepted each year? 
A: Up to 4

Q: How long is the program, and when does it end? 
A: The program is a two year program plus an online CE course beginning in January and a summer course onsite.

Q: Can you work while you are in the program? 
A: No. This is a full time program.

Q: Are there any types of scholarships or financial aid available?
A: Financial aid is available to US citizens through fafsa.ed.gov. The University of Iowa does not offer any scholarships.

Q:  Is my interview fee refundable?
A:  No

Q: Will my application be reviewed if a document is missing? 
A: No, the admissions committee will only review applications that are complete.

Q: What type of recommendation letters are accepted? 
A: The program requires three letters of evaluation from (1) former faculty member, (2) teacher or mentor, and (3) from the applicant’s choice that is not a family member. The letters must be written in English on official letterhead and signed by the letter writer. If they are not on letterhead or signed by the letter writer they will not be accepted.

Q: Do I need to take the National Board Dental Examination Requirements? 
A: The program requires passage of NBDE Parts I and II.

Q: Do I have to take the TOEFL? 
A: We require a minimum score of 100. Non-English speaking applicants are required to take the TOEFL. Applications without the minimum scores will not be considered.

Q: When submitting my application through CAAPID, is there a fee? 
A: Yes. There are two fees: (1) CAAPID ADEA Fee and (2) A non-refundable processing fee of $250.00 is required (separate from the ADEA CAAPID application fee).

Q: When do I need to submit my supplemental application materials? 
A: You will need to submit your supplemental application materials when an interview is offered.

Q: When are interviews conducted? 
A: You will be notified via email if you are invited to come for an interview. The interview invitation will include the exact date and times available. Those who are not invited for an interview will be notified by email.

Q: What should I expect at the interview? 
A: The interview will include: 1. Interview with faculty 2. Didactic test 3. Bench test 4. Writing exam 5. Presentation about our program

Q: What if I withdraw my application after submitting all the documents required for the interview? 
A: Once the University receives your application, all documents become property of the University and cannot be released. We will withdraw your application, but will keep your application on file. The interview fee and application fee are non-refundable.

Q: Do you require criminal background checks? 
A: Yes. After an offer to join the program is made and as a condition of acceptance and continued enrollment, entering students are required to complete a criminal background check. Offers of admission are not considered final and enrollment is not permitted until completion of the check has results acceptable to The University of Iowa College of Dentistry.

Q:Is there a minimum GPA requirement? 
A: As GPA calculations are not standardized across institutions, a minimum GPA is not specified.  Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill throughout their training