Re-Applying to Dental School to Study Dentistry
Due to the competitive nature of the dental school application. It is not unusual for many candidates to re-apply. It is likely though, as a re-applicant, those Universities will wish to see tangible differences between your first application and a subsequent one.
It is imperative that you first liaise with the Universities that you wish to re-apply to, checking that there are no contra-indications or factors which you have not satisfied for their admissions process.
Use this article to give you further insight into the process of re-taking qualifications and re-applying to study Dentistry.
Things to consider if you are retaking A-levels
The first thing to consider is whether or not your prospective university allows retake students. Contacting university administration teams and researching on the university websites will help to answer these questions.
Secondly, consider whether you will be needing the help of a school/college for your retakes, for example – does your school have a Year 14, would you have to change schools/colleges and retake a year while in attendance, or can you retake by yourself at home? Furthermore, you need to make sure that you are registered to re-sit the exams (which may have a cost if you are doing it privately) and you also have to check where you will be sitting them so you are organised.
Another thing to ask yourself is whether you think you can do better the second time around and are you willing to put in the work? Consider what went wrong the first time around and make the appropriate changes, whether that is needing support from a tutor, changing your exam technique, going back to school or just stress or time management.
The final thing to consider is what to do if you do not succeed the second time. What are your back up options? Which other courses besides Dentistry would interest you?
You may experience some anxiety or stress when retaking A levels – this is natural and should be expected. You need to find the right stress relief techniques that work for you. Some suggestions are breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, hiking, and sport.
We support those who are re-applying with our services:
Thinking About A Gap Year ?
Listen to advice from those students who took a gap year, in this article.
What to consider if you are re-applying to Dental School
Objective Feedback
The first thing is to try and get feedback from your previous application. Whenever you get a rejection you should ask why they have made that decision as you can learn on how to improve when reapplying.
Stay Organised
Secondly, make sure you remember to carry out all the appropriate requirements i.e. register a new application on UCAS, re-sit the UCAT/BMAT, and update your personal statement. This personal statement should be an improved version of your first one.
Refresh & Renew Knowledge
You should be able to talk about what you have done since you last applied – especially work experience, any volunteering opportunities and maintaining an interest in dental developments.
Check Admissions Before Applying
Also when re-applying, check the admissions criteria as you don’t want to waste an application slot due to a misunderstanding. When it comes to the interview stage, don’t be scared that people may know you’re re-applying. This is not a negative thing and can actually be used as a positive as it can often give you more to talk about, especially if you have done something productive in your time.