Top Dental Colleges in USA 2025: Rankings, Courses, Tuition Fees & Admission Guide
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Dreaming of becoming a top dentist in the U.S.? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re into high-end research, patient care, or hands-on practice, the best dental colleges in USA in 2025 offer it all. From Ivy League giants like Harvard and UPenn to innovative schools like UCSF and UNC—these institutions are shaping the future of dental care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top dental schools in USA, their courses, tuition fees, admission stats, and what makes each one special. Let’s help you find your perfect dental school match!
Why Choose the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 2025?
If you’re aiming to be one of the best in the dental field, the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in Ann Arbor is a top place to start. Ranked among the top 5 dental schools in the world(QS World University Rankings 2025), it’s known for amazing teaching, research, and hands-on training that truly prepares students for real-life dental careers. Founded in 1875, the school offers several programs like DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), Dental Hygiene, Master’s, and PhD in Oral Health Sciences.
With over 700 students across all programs, the school combines world-class academics with plenty of practical experience. The school is very selective—only about 5% of applicants get accepted. But if you make it, you’ll be studying alongside some of the brightest dental students from across the U.S. and around the world. Following are the key details of University of Michigan School of Dentistry:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
| Year of Establishment | 1875 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 5 globally for Dentistry |
| Total Enrollment | 700+ students (DDS, MS, PhD, Dental Hygiene) |
| Popular Programs | DDS, MS in Orthodontics, PhD in Oral Health Sciences, Dental Hygiene |
| Annual Tuition (Non-Residents) | ~$80,000 |
| Annual Tuition (Residents) | ~$45,000 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~5% |
| Average GPA (Admitted) | 3.8+ |
| Average DAT Score | 21–23 |
| English Requirements | TOEFL iBT: 100+; IELTS: 7.0+ |
| Student Diversity | Students from 40+ U.S. states and 20+ countries |
| Graduate Outcomes | 95%+ placed in jobs or residencies within 6 months |
| Official Website | dent.umich.edu |
| Top Student Accommodation Near University of Michigan | Six11, Hub Ann Arbor, The Yard, Peninsular Place, Willowtree apartments tower |
What Makes Harvard School of Dental Medicine a Top Dental College in 2025?
If you want to study dentistry at one of the most respected and competitive schools in the world, Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) is a name that truly stands out. Located in the Longwood Medical Area in Boston, this school has a long history—it was founded in 1867—and it’s still leading the way in dental education in 2025. Harvard ranks in the top 10 globally for Dentistry (QS World University Rankings 2025). The school also has a low student-to-faculty ratio, so you’ll get personal attention and mentorship from some of the best professionals in the field.
Plus, there are amazing research opportunities, community outreach programs, and strong support for leadership development. Admission is super competitive—with an acceptance rate of just 3.5%—but if you make it, you’ll join a tight-knit and talented group of future dental leaders. Following are the key details of Harvard School of Dental Medicine:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Year of Establishment | 1867 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 10 globally for Dentistry |
| Total Enrollment | ~160 DMD students + 100+ postdoctoral candidates |
| Popular Programs | DMD, MMSc (Master of Medical Sciences), DMSc (Doctor of Medical Sciences) |
| Annual Tuition (DMD) | ~$77,000 |
| Additional Costs | ~$25,000/year (tools, fees, insurance, housing) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~3.5% |
| Average GPA (Admitted) | 3.85+ |
| Average DAT Score | 22–24 |
| English Requirements | TOEFL iBT: 100+; IELTS: 7.5+ |
| Clinical Facilities | Harvard Dental Center, partner hospitals like Brigham & Women’s |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | ~3:1 |
| Graduate Outcomes | Nearly 100% placed in jobs or residencies |
| Official Website | hsdm.harvard.edu |
Is UCSF School of Dentistry One of the Best Dental Schools in the USA in 2025?
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry is one of the top dental schools not just in the U.S., but in the world. Founded in 1881, UCSF has a long history of training excellent dentists and researchers. In 2025, it ranks in the top 10 globally for Dentistry according to the QS World University Rankings. What makes UCSF special is its focus on evidence-based learning, early clinical training, and public health.
Located in San Francisco, the school offers access to a vibrant city with plenty of opportunities in biotech, healthcare, and research. UCSF is also known for supporting diversity and inclusion, with scholarships and programs that help students from all backgrounds succeed. Following are the key details of University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry:
| Category | Details |
| Location | San Francisco, California |
| Year of Establishment | 1881 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 10 globally for Dentistry |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 450 students (DDS + postgraduates) |
| Popular Programs | DDS, PhD in Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, Residency Programs |
| Annual Tuition (DDS) | ~$75,000 (non-residents); ~$54,000 (California residents) |
| Additional Costs | ~$20,000/year (living, fees, equipment) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~6% |
| Average GPA (Admitted) | 3.7 – 3.9 |
| Average DAT Score | 22–23 |
| English Requirements | TOEFL iBT: 90+ (for international students) |
| Clinical Facilities | UCSF Dental Center, Pediatric and Specialty Clinics |
| Student Diversity | 45% of students from underrepresented groups |
| Official Website | dentistry.ucsf.edu |
| Top Student Accommodation Near University of California, San Francisco | Bayview, The Durant, The Bosco, Stonefire, Identity Logan Park, University Park |
Why Study at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry in 2025?
If you want a top-ranked dental education that’s both high-quality and affordable, the UNC School of Dentistry is a great pick in 2025. Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, this school is part of the University of North Carolina system and ranks in the top 15 globally for Dentistry (QS World Rankings 2025).
Founded in 1950, UNC’s dental school is known for its modern simulation labs, strong focus on evidence-based dentistry, and its dedication to serving local and global communities. One major perk? Students get early clinical experience—you won’t be waiting years before working with real patients. The school sees over 100,000 patient visits each year, so there’s no shortage of hands-on learning. Following are the key details of UNC School of Dentistry:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Chapel Hill, North Carolina |
| Year of Establishment | 1950 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 15 globally for Dentistry |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 500 DDS and postgraduate students |
| Popular Programs | DDS, MS in Endodontics/Orthodontics, PhD in Oral Biology, Dental Hygiene |
| Annual Tuition (DDS) | ~$57,000 (non-residents); ~$38,000 (in-state) |
| Total Estimated Cost (Incl. Living) | ~$85,000–$95,000/year (non-residents) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~5.8% |
| Average GPA (Admitted) | 3.6 – 3.9 |
| Average DAT Score | 21–22 |
| English Requirements | TOEFL iBT: 94+ (for international applicants) |
| Patient Volume | Over 100,000 patient visits annually |
| Official Website | dentistry.unc.edu |
What Are the Key Highlights of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in 2025?
If you’re looking for a top dental school that combines Ivy League prestige with hands-on learning, then the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (also called Penn Dental) is a great choice for 2025. Based in Philadelphia, this private school is part of the University of Pennsylvania—one of the top Ivy League universities in the U.S.—and has been training future dentists since 1878. Penn Dental is ranked among the top 15 dental schools globally (QS World University Rankings 2025), and it’s easy to see why.
Class sizes are small, so you get personal attention, and the school offers strong support for research, leadership, and community outreach. It’s tough to get in—the acceptance rate is under 5%—but once you’re in, you’ll graduate with a strong foundation and access to amazing career paths in the U.S. and around the world. Following are the key details of University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Year of Establishment | 1878 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 15 globally for Dentistry |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 450 students (DMD and postgraduate programs) |
| Popular Programs | DMD, MS in Oral Biology (MSOB), PhD, Postdoctoral Specialties |
| Annual Tuition (DMD) | ~$87,000 (not including living expenses) |
| Estimated Total Cost | ~$110,000–$115,000 per year (with housing and supplies) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~4.7% |
| Average GPA (Admitted) | 3.6 – 3.9 |
| Average DAT Score | 21–23 |
| English Requirements | TOEFL iBT: 100+ (required for international applicants) |
| Official Website | dental.upenn.edu |
| Top Student Accommodation Near University of Pennsylvania | Evo at Cira Centre South, The Summit at University City, The Chestnut at University City, 411 N 34th Street, 3411 Brandywine Street, University Crossings |
How Does Columbia University College of Dental Medicine Stand Out in 2025?
If you want to study dentistry at an Ivy League school in a big, exciting city—Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (CDM) in New York should definitely be on your radar in 2025. Located in Upper Manhattan, CDM is part of the Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Founded in 1916, Columbia CDM is known for combining clinical training, public health, and research all in one.
It ranks among the top 20 dental schools in the world in the 2025 QS World Rankings. Students at Columbia get to work with real patients early on, train in high-tech simulation labs, and take part in outreach programs that help underserved communities in New York. It’s a tough school to get into—with an acceptance rate of just around 3%. Following are the key details of Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (CDM):
| Category | Details |
| Location | New York City, New York |
| Year of Establishment | 1916 |
| QS World Ranking 2025 | Top 20 globally for Dentistry |
| Parent Institution | Columbia University |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 420 students across all dental programs |
| Popular Programs | DDS, MS in Periodontics/Endodontics, AEGD, DDS/MPH, DDS/PhD |
| Annual Tuition Fees (DDS) | ~$89,000 |
| Estimated Total Cost | ~$115,000 – $120,000 per year (with housing, fees, and supplies) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~3.2% |
| Average GPA (Admitted) | 3.7 – 3.9 |
| Average DAT Score | 22–23 |
| English Requirements | TOEFL iBT: 100+ (for international students) |
| Clinical Training Sites | Columbia Dental Center, NY-Presbyterian Hospital, and local clinics |
| Simulation Facilities | Preclinical simulation labs, digital dentistry facilities |
| Official Website | dental.columbia.edu |
Conclusion
Choosing where to study dentistry is a big step—but with schools like the University of Michigan, Harvard, UCSF, UNC, Penn Dental, and Columbia, you really can’t go wrong. These top dental colleges in the USA offer the best mix of clinical experience, academic strength, and global recognition. Now that you’ve got all the info, it’s time to prepare your application and start your journey toward becoming a world-class dentist. You’ve got this!
And if you’re wondering where you’ll live during dental school, don’t stress—University Living has your back! We help international and domestic students find verified, fully furnished student accommodations close to campus. Start your search with University Living today and get one step closer to your dream dental career!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top dental colleges in the USA for 2025?
The leading dental schools in the USA for 2025, according to the QS World University Rankings, include:
1. University of Michigan School of Dentistry
2. Harvard School of Dental Medicine
3. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry
4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry
5. University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
6. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
What is the average tuition fee for dental schools in the USA in 2025?
Tuition fees vary across institutions. For instance:
1. University of Michigan School of Dentistry: Approximately $45,000 for residents and $80,000 for non-residents annually.
2. Harvard School of Dental Medicine: Around $77,000 per year.
3. UCSF School of Dentistry: About $54,000 for California residents and $75,000 for non-residents annually.
Additional costs, such as instruments, housing, and insurance, can add approximately $20,000–$25,000 per year.
What are the admission requirements for top dental schools in the USA?
Common admission requirements include:
1. A bachelor’s degree or a minimum of 90 semester hours from an accredited institution.
2. Completion of prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and English.
3. Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores.
4. Letters of recommendation.
5. Personal statement and resume/CV.
6. For international applicants, proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores
What is the duration of dental programs in the USA?
The standard Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) programs typically span four years.
Do dental schools in the USA accept international students?
Many dental schools accept international applicants. However, requirements may include:
1. Evaluation of foreign transcripts.
2. Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
3. Completion of prerequisite courses at accredited institutions.
It’s crucial to check specific international admission guidelines for each school.
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