If you have been thinking about taking a DAT course, Varsity Tutors can set you up with private DAT classes to help you reach for your professional goals. The DAT is a high-stakes exam used by the American Dental Association (ADA) to assess the academic skills of dental school applicants. It includes sections on general academics, scientific information comprehension, and perceptual ability. If you feel as though a DAT prep class could help you improve your self-confidence heading into the exam, contact us today to get the process started!
One of the first questions asked in most DAT courses is about the format and content of the exam. The test is administered at testing center nationwide, meaning that you need to sign up for a testing date and then go to a testing lab to complete your exam. If you have any questions about how this process works, your DAT course instructor will be happy to help you.
The chart below illustrates each section of the test, as well as how long you have to take it:
DAT Administration Schedule
Item |
Est. Duration |
Optional Tutorial |
15 Min |
Survey of Natural Sciences |
90 Min |
Perceptual Ability Test |
60 min |
Scheduled Break (optional) |
30 min |
Reading Comprehension Test |
60 min |
Quantitative Reasoning Test |
45 min |
Option Post Test Survey |
15 min |
Total Time |
5 Hours |
Five hours is a long time for one testing session, so you may wish to work on your intellectual stamina during your DAT class. Here are the content areas you'll be facing during this time:
DAT Content Areas
- Biology
- 40 questions
- Organic Chemistry
- 30 questions
- General Chemistry
- 30 questions
- Reading Comprehension
- 25 questions
- Perceptual Ability (90 questions)
- Apertures
- View recognition
- Angle discrimination
- Paper folding
- Cube counting
- 3D form development
- Reading Comprehension (50 questions)
- 3 passages on various scientific topics
- Quantitative Reasoning (40 questions)
- Math problems
- Word problems
Working through sample problems may help you identify where your areas of opportunity lie. For example, if you do considerably better on the biology questions than the general chemistry ones, your future DAT prep courses should probably focus on chemistry to improve your study efficiency.
Each of our DAT prep classes also involves one-on-one study time with a knowledgeable instructor. Should you have any questions, your instructor can provide an on-the-spot answer. Likewise, all of your work receives immediate feedback so that you can correct any mistakes while the material is still fresh in your mind.
Your instructor may also be able to tailor your DAT class to your unique needs. For instance, a visual learner might use scale models to better understand the biology of the mouth, while an auditory learner might get more out of listening to a lecture on the topic. You are also free to spend as much or as little time on each topic as you need to. Unlike many competing products, our DAT prep course offerings have no artificial time constraints or set curricula to distract you from what you need to do.
Jonathan: DAT course instructor
...and moved on to science courses such as chemistry, genetics, and biology. I also tutored some remedial math and english courses. No jobs other than teaching and medicine bring me everything I want in a career. I love to help others because I have benefited so much from others help in the past. My goal is to inspire a few other students to take up this job and give back as I have.... Make yourself obsolete to your students.
Education & Certification
- University of Houston Downtown - Bachelors, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- MCAT
- GMAT
- GRE
- +111 subjects
Kristine: DAT course instructor
...For more than eight years, I have taught students in many different subjects such as DAT, SAT, Chemistry (General and Organic), Biology, and Physics in both classroom and tutoring environments. Besides academics, I have even taught swimming and dance. My tutoring style focuses on tailoring the lesson to target the students weaknesses. I am very attentive and adaptable ensuring a more productive experience. In my free time, I enjoy swimming, running, and traveling.
Education & Certification
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick - Bachelors, Genetics and Psychology
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- SAT
- Algebra 2
- General Biology
- +30 subjects
Emily: DAT course instructor
...the General Physics I & II courses. I was also available for tutoring for students taking the course. I really enjoy working with students of all different learning styles and creating a plan that helps them achieve their potential. Tutoring allows me to keep my skills in the sciences fresh, while helping other students. I am passionate about the sciences and like to apply concepts I learn in class to real life situations. In my...
Education & Certification
- Villanova University - Bachelors, Biology, General
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Current Grad Student, Dentistry (DDS)
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- MCAT
- GRE
- High School Biology
- +24 subjects
Stefan: DAT course instructor
...progress can be made in them by simply looking at different strategies to approaching the subject material. I have come to understand that a great tutor is someone who can understand how a particular student learns and who works to explain the concept in a manner that encourages learning rather than tedious memorization. I believe I am aptly capable of doing so. Outside of my academic endeavors, I enjoy playing basketball and I am a...
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Reading
- ACT English
- DAT Perceptual Ability
- +37 subjects
Jason: DAT course instructor
...I discovered that I am very patient and positive. I tried really hard to help students understand the questions, background behind the questions, and ways to approach to solve the questions. I am a senior at university with Chemistry with Pre-dental degree. I am working at school as a peer tutor as well, teaching chemistry and math. I really like to teach students and feel happiness when they understand the concepts of questions! Outside of...
Education & Certification
- University of North Florida - Current Undergrad, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Pre-Algebra
- Calculus
- Elementary School Math
- +20 subjects
Thomas: DAT course instructor
I have been tutoring since 2008. I've helped 1000+ students to improve their understanding in general chemistry, biology (especially in genetics, anatomy, and microbiology), most physics courses, organic chemistry, math (algebra, geometry, and pre-calc), ACT, GRE, DAT, MCAT, and other test prep. I have a level 1 & 2 tutor certification from the College Learning and Reading Association. I offer one-on-one, small group, and online tutoring.
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee - Bachelor of Science, Microbiology
- Liberty University - Master in Public Health, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- MCAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- GMAT
- +93 subjects
Cheyne Ian: DAT course instructor
...so I have a wide range of experience. I enjoy working with kids of all ages and my favorite subjects to teach are math, biology, and chemistry. As a current student, I know that sometimes certain topics can seem impossible, but working at it is the only way to improve. I hope to provide the best possible tutoring experience for the student and the teacher in an environment conducive to learning. I am currently a...
Education & Certification
- Creighton University - Current Undergrad, Management
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- SSAT
- ACT Writing
- Writing
- +50 subjects
Amin: DAT course instructor
...is my strongest and also my favorite subject to teach, followed by Sciences (especially Chemistry). Working with kids and teens has taught me the importance of patience and finding ways to keep the material interesting. I have found that the best way to learn is rarely by listening to someone, but instead by doing and having a conversation throughout the learning process. In my spare time, I love to play and watch rugby, basketball, football...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- High School Physics
- College Algebra
- Pre-Calculus
- +25 subjects
Vaibhav: DAT course instructor
...college I spent my time volunteering at local hospitals and researching novel neuroscience techniques. I will attend medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth Medical College this fall. Having taken all of the science classes since high school, I know how daunting and hard science material might seem but if taken at a very fundamental level, it is much more logical and simpler than how many high school teachers or college professors make it seem. Thats how...
Education & Certification
- University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - Bachelors, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- MCAT
- GMAT
- GRE
- +61 subjects
Parsa: DAT course instructor
...fulfilling task and I truly enjoy helping others learn. Knowledge and education are very valuable tools in life so I see tutoring as a gratifying duty of mine to help others learn material with which they are having difficulty. I graduated from the University of Georgia in May 2011 (B.S. Chemistry) and I have aspirations of becoming a dentist. Since graduating, I have worked full-time on weekdays with an oral surgeon for dental experience and...
Education & Certification
- University of Georgia - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- High School Biology
- College Essays
- DAT Reading Comprehension
- +31 subjects
Tejas: DAT course instructor
...go to local elementary schools and teach weekly science lessons and conduct experiments with students ranging in the K to 4th grade levels. As a Biology major, I have always been a strong math and science student. I especially love teaching math because I believe that there are many teachable moments to be had when learning math which can help both students and myself as a tutor grow and learn beyond just basic math skills....
Education & Certification
- SUNY at Binghamton - Bachelor of Science, Cell & Molecular Biology
- Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine - Doctor of Dental Science, N/A
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Arithmetic
- DAT Survey of the Natural Sciences
- High School Chemistry
- +21 subjects
Matthew: DAT course instructor
...taking my DAT, I applied to 8 dental schools and was accepted to 7 of them! In my undergraduate semesters, I often took up multiple positions to be a resource for tutoring and mentoring to underclassman students. This included teaching an introduction to chemistry lab course and being a peer-mentor and President of the Making Doctors Club, a community of aspiring health professionals (pre-med, dental, vet, PA, etc.) helping them in achieving their pre-health professional...
Education & Certification
- University of Delaware - Bachelor in Arts, Chemistry
- University of Connecticut - Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Predentistry
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- OAT
- MCAT
- LSAT
- +61 subjects
Andrew: DAT course instructor
Aside from being an avid scholar, I am a world traveler and enjoy trying new things! I also love to run, draw, read, and cook, either with friends or simply by myself. I stay in shape both mentally and physically: I am constantly training to be my best. Whenever the opportunity arises to help elevate someone, I take it. Helping a student reach their goals is equally as rewarding for my student and myself.
Education & Certification
- Michigan State University - Bachelor of Science, Human Biology
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- DAT Reading Comprehension
- Pharmacology
- Geometry
- +21 subjects
Matthew: DAT course instructor
...a Pre-dental student over time because I loved learning about the sciences. I enjoy teaching a variety of subjects, including Chemistry, Biology, and Math. I have worked with students of all ages. My belief is that if the student understands the material presented, it is much easier to learn and incorporate. In my free time, I enjoy playing sports; mainly basketball. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind and a healthy mind can do...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor in Arts, Sociology/ Pre Dental
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Biology
- High School Chemistry
- Geometry
- +25 subjects
Amir: DAT course instructor
...semesters. The subjects I tutored ranged from college level science courses to advanced mathematics. In my opinion, the most rewarding aspect of tutoring is when I am able to convey a particularly challenging question to a student. I do this by approaching concepts from multiple perspectives and breaking things down into layman's terms. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, weight lifting, and spending time with my family. I really look forward to meeting all...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- GRE
- Pre-Calculus
- Quantitative Reasoning
- +30 subjects
Seth: DAT course instructor
...here in Las Vegas. I have always had a passion for the English language and writing; consequently, I enjoy helping others gain that same enthusiasm but teaching reading, writing, and general English. I also love tutoring anatomy and physiology, as well as basic biology. Due to my passion in biology and the sciences, I want to pursue a career in dental medicine. I recently took the Dental Admission Test (DAT) and have applied to dental...
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Idaho - Bachelors, Exercise Physiology
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Geography
- Elementary School Math
- Science
- +29 subjects
Christopher: DAT course instructor
...college level for upper level science courses. Being a recent college graduate, I believe I am able to connect with students more easily and understand their perspective when approaching difficult topics. I am patient with my students and always do my preparation before a lesson so that my time with the student is efficient. I strive to not only teaching the material in an effective manner, but instill the confidence needed so that the student...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-College Park - Bachelor of Science, Neurobiology & Physiology
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Science
- High School Biology
- Organic Chemistry
- +17 subjects
Daniel: DAT course instructor
...State University with a B.S. in Microbiology, I understand the hardships that many students must face in large classroom learning environments and so I can relate to younger or more mature adult students. I have much experience in working in a lab setting where application and science work in tandem so I realize the necessity in flexibility and the importance in explaining the exceptions to the rules that we learn in science. My studies have...
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor of Science, Microbiology
- University of California-Los Angeles - Doctor of Dental Science, Dentistry
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Elementary Math
- High School Chemistry
- DAT Reading Comprehension
- +21 subjects
Linh: DAT course instructor
...able to use my knowledge to help others succeed. My strongest subjects are Math and Biology, but nothing fascinates me more than the studies of natural lives around us and the molecular mechanisms of our very own body. Seeing my students understand and enjoy the subject I am passionate about is my utmost joy in tutoring. In my spare time I like to read mystery/crime novels, snowboard and simply enjoy a good football game.
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland-Baltimore County - Bachelor in Arts, Biological Science
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- Algebra
- Elementary School Math
- AP Biology
- +21 subjects
Anna: DAT course instructor
...as a 9th grade English teacher has given me the opportunity to work with students from low-income backgrounds, students with learning disabilities, English Language Learners as well as students from a range of racial/ethnic identities. I strongly believe in every students' ability to learn new and challenging concepts. I have a knack for presenting information in ways that resonate with students and that students can understand. I take pride in my ability to make learning...
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelors, Politics
- Johns Hopkins University - Masters, Education Studies
Subject Expertise
- DAT
- PCAT
- OAT
- DAT Reading Comprehension
- +99 subjects