What Is a Good DAT Score? AA, TS, PAT, and Section Scores Explained
DAT Scoring · 2026-06-21 · MCATDATPrep Team
Quick answer: A good DAT score is not just one number. Dental schools may look at Academic Average, Total Science, PAT, and whether any section creates concern.
Build your MCAT/DAT study plan
Turn this strategy into a week-by-week plan. Use the free score goal and study planner to choose your test, target score, date, weekly hours, and weakest section.
Understand AA, TS, and PAT
Academic Average summarizes several academic sections. Total Science focuses on the science sections. PAT tests perceptual ability and can matter even when your academic sections are strong.
Balance matters
A strong AA with a weak PAT or science subsection may still need explanation or improvement. Build your plan around the section that creates the most admissions risk.
Turn the score target into a schedule
Once you know your target, choose an 8-week, 12-week, or 6-month plan based on your starting point and weekly hours.
How to use this today
Pick your target score, test date, weekly study hours, and weakest section. Then convert this article into a concrete weekly plan instead of leaving it as advice.
Create your free MCAT/DAT study plan now →
FAQ
Should I use this as my only study resource?
No. Use it as a planning layer. Pair it with official-style questions, full-length review, and targeted section practice.
How often should I update my plan?
Update it after every diagnostic or full-length exam. Your missed-question patterns should decide the next week of work.