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Admission Requirements

@Nucleus University School of Dentistry, Aruba (NUSOD)

Admission Requirements for the DDS Program


Welcome to the first step towards your journey in dental medicine at Nucleus University School of Dentistry Aruba (NUSOD). Our DDS program seeks to enroll a diverse group of students who are committed, highly motivated, and prepared for the rigorous path of dental education. Below are the essential admission requirements designed to identify individuals who possess the skills, attributes, and aspirations aligned with our mission of excellence in dental education.

Academic Prerequisites:


Education: Applicants must have completed an undergraduate curriculum and must have been awarded a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent before matriculation to the 4-year MD program. Ninety semester/college hours, including all prerequisite courses, must have been completed.

Premedical studies should include:

  • One academic year of General Biology (Biology I and II)
  • One academic year of General Chemistry (General Chemistry I and II)
  • One academic year of Organic Chemistry (Organic Chemistry I and II)
  • One academic year of Physics (Physics I and II)
  • One academic year of English (English I and II)
  • One academic year of Math (Precalculus and Calculus)

Additional courses in biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, though not required, are highly recommended.

Standardized Tests:


While the Dental Admission Test (DAT) is not a mandatory component of the application process, it is highly recommended. A strong performance on the DAT can enhance an application by demonstrating the applicant's aptitude for the study and practice of dentistry. Applicants who choose to submit DAT scores should ensure they reflect the most current assessment of their abilities.

Application Materials:


All applications to the NUSOD DDS program must be completed directly via our official website at nusom.org. The online application portal guides applicants through each step of the process, from submitting personal information and academic records to providing letters of recommendation and personal statements. Our website also offers detailed instructions and tips for preparing a strong application.

Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be submitted directly to the admissions office.

Letters of Recommendation: Submit at least three letters of recommendation. These should preferably come from faculty members who are familiar with your academic abilities and a dentist who can attest to your potential in the field.

Personal Statement: A comprehensive personal statement discussing your motivation for pursuing a career in dentistry, your goals, and why you believe NUSOD is the right fit for your dental education.

Additional Requirements:


Interview: Selected applicants will be invited for an interview, which is a critical component of the admissions process. Interviews may be conducted in-person or virtually, depending on circumstances.

English Proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English may be required to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.

Technical Standards:


Applicants must meet the technical standards necessary for dental practice, including motor skills, communication proficiency, and behavioral and social attributes.

Diversity and Inclusion:


NUSOD values diversity and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, believing that a diverse student body enhances the learning environment and the profession of dentistry as a whole.

Final Considerations:


Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. The Admissions Committee reviews all aspects of each application, including academic records, test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and interview performances, to select the most qualified candidates.

We are excited about your interest in joining the distinguished ranks at NUSOD and look forward to reviewing your application. Should you have any questions about the application process or requirements, please do not hesitate to contact our admissions office.

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