What Is a Good DAT Score in 2026? (200-600 Scale)

A good DAT score in 2026 is generally a 440 or higher on the 200-600 scale, which falls around the 80th percentile of test-takers. The national average is roughly 400, which is about the 50th percentile, and scores of 460 and above are considered highly competitive at most U.S. dental schools. That is the short answer. The rest of this guide explains what those numbers mean and how to set a realistic target.

What counts as a good DAT score in 2026?

Since March 2025 the DAT reports scores on a 200-600 scale in 10-point increments, replacing the old 1-30 scale. On this scale, the national average Academic Average sits near 400. A score of 440 or higher puts you comfortably above the typical applicant, and many students aim for the 440 to 500 range to stay competitive. A 460 or higher generally lands around the 90th percentile and is competitive nearly everywhere.

Good is relative to your school list

There is no universal cutoff. A good DAT score is one that meets or beats the average of the schools you are applying to. Competitive programs often report accepted-student averages in the higher ranges, while other schools accept a wider band. Before fixing a target, look up the accepted-student score ranges for your actual list, then aim to land at or above their average rather than chasing an abstract number.

Academic Average vs section scores

Your DAT report includes individual section scores plus an Academic Average (AA), which is the number schools most often quote. Because the AA blends your sections, a single weak section drags the whole average down. That is why the fastest way to raise your AA is usually to fix your lowest section, not to push an already-strong one higher. For how the scale works in detail, see our DAT score scale explained.

How to reach a good score

Diagnose first, then target. Take a full practice test, find your weakest section, and weight your study time toward it. The sections that reward trainable skills, especially Reading Comprehension and the PAT, often offer the quickest gains for the effort. See how to study for the DAT and the section breakdown.

Reading Comprehension is the most trainable section, so if RC is dragging your Academic Average, it is often the fastest number to move. That is the section we specialize in. See how to practice DAT RC.

Frequently asked

What is the average DAT score? Roughly 400 on the 200-600 scale, about the 50th percentile.

What DAT score do I need for dental school? Most competitive applicants score 440 or higher, though the exact target depends on your school list.

Is a 500 DAT score good? Yes. A 500 is well above average and competitive at essentially every U.S. dental school.

Try our RC question bank free or see pricing.