How Long is the DAT Test?

If you’re preparing to apply to dental school, you’re likely familiar with the Dental Admission Test (DAT). One common question among aspiring dental students is: “How long is the DAT test?” Let’s break it down.

Total Test Time

The DAT is a comprehensive exam that takes approximately 5 hours to complete. However, this includes more than just the actual testing time.

Test Structure and Timing

The DAT is divided into four main sections:

1. Survey of Natural Sciences (90 minutes)
2. Perceptual Ability Test (60 minutes)
3. Reading Comprehension Test (60 minutes)
4. Quantitative Reasoning Test (45 minutes)

These sections add up to 4 hours and 15 minutes of actual testing time.

Additional Time

In addition to the testing time, test-takers are given:

• 15 minutes for a tutorial at the beginning of the exam
• An optional 30-minute break after the first two sections

Key Takeaways

• The total seated time for the DAT is about 5 hours.
• Excluding the initial tutorial and optional break, the actual test time is 4 hours and 15 minutes.
• There’s a 15-minute tutorial at the start.
• An optional 30-minute break is provided halfway through.

Remember, while knowing the test duration is important, focusing on thorough preparation for each section is crucial for success on the DAT. Good luck with your studies!