Prospective students have a wide variety of background questions. Some of the most frequently asked questions are outlined.

Admission Procedure/Process: All interested students must submit their application to the Office of Academic Admissions at the Medical College of Georgia. Each application is reviewed by an admissions committee. If any part of an application is not complete, the applicant may be contacted for the missing information. Each application is reviewed by all members of the committee. Final admission decisions are made based upon grade point averages (both overall and the math/science GPA), letters of recommendation, other language test scores as appropriate, and an assessment of the motivation and personal qualities of the applicant that are deemed most conducive to the successful completion of the program. Preference is given to residents of Georgia. The Office of Academic Admissions will notify the applicant, via mail, the final decision of the Admissions Committee. (top)

What is the application deadline?
It is a good idea to apply early so time is allowed for advisement regarding prerequisites. It is suggested that the application process begin in the fall or winter for the following academic year. The deadline for the baccalaureate program is April 1. The completed application and all required materials for a completed application are due on this date. (top)

What "counts" in admission?
The admissions committee uses a weighted formula that is based on the success of prior applicants. The formula weighs cumulative grade point average and math/science grade point average. Priority is also included for Georgia residents, quality of references, autobiographical section content, and writing ability (See application form). References who have the ability to rate work skills or prior academic performance are recommended. Also, the admissions committee is interested in the reasons for entering the dental hygiene profession and in the applicant's ability to express the motivation behind their decision. The committee does not require personal interviews. However, a visit to the campus is encouraged prior to matriculation. (top)

Will having dental assisting experience increase my chances for acceptance?
Dental assisting experience is not required prior to admissions. However, dental assisting certification (CDA) is noted by the admissions committee. (top)

What kind of grade point average (GPA) do I need to have?
The cumulative GPA of all college work must be a minimum of a 2.3 (on a 4.0 scale). However, due to competition, the previous classes have an average GPA well above the minimum. (top)

I didn't know what I wanted to do when I went to school ten years ago and got poor grades. After working for five years, I now know that I want to be in dental hygiene. I've gotten good grades since returning to school. Can you "forgive" my old grades?
You can request consideration as a nontraditional student if you were out of school for more than two years. If the committee agrees, we can compute your grade point average based on all prerequisite courses taken the first time you were in school and all courses taken since you returned to school. We can also give special consideration for an applicant who had a "bad" quarter/semester due to circumstances beyond his/her control. For example, an applicant may be an honor student, but received "F"s for one quarter/semester since he/she withdrew after the deadline due to hospitalization following an accident. (top)

It's been more than ten years since I took some of my science courses? Will I have to retake them?
Yes, the required sciences courses should have been taken in the past few years so that you have current science course information. Applying early will allow us to evaluate your courses in time for you to take any additional courses needed to meet prerequisites. (top)

Would it be to my advantage to take more science courses than the minimum required?
Yes, additional chemistry and laboratory sciences are recommended. Experience shows that a strong science background is needed to successfully complete the dental hygiene curriculum. (top)

Do I have to complete all my prerequisites before I can apply?
No. We can consider your application before you have completed all of the prerequisites. There is a page in the application where you must indicate where and when you took or plan to take each prerequisite. Be sure to check that the courses you need will be offered in the quarter/semester you plan to take them. Applicants who have not completed all prerequisites may be offered "provisional acceptance pending satisfactory completion of prerequisites" prior to registration. (top)

Will I be able to work while attending your program?
Our programs are very demanding. Classes generally meet all day Monday through Friday with homework assignments that fill evening and weekend hours. We cannot prohibit you from working while in school, but most students find it extremely difficult. The Student Financial Aid Office is very helpful in finding alternative resources. (top)