Creighton University School of Dentistry: Understanding Tuition, Costs, and Admissions
Creighton University School of Dentistry, a private institution located in Omaha, Nebraska, is known for its commitment to clinical experience, ethical practice, and service to underserved populations. For prospective students, understanding the financial aspects of attending this esteemed school is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the tuition, fees, financial aid options, and admission requirements for the Creighton University School of Dentistry.
Cost of Attendance
The cost of attending Creighton University School of Dentistry is a significant investment. For the academic year, the total cost of attendance for first-year dental students is approximately $94,982. This figure includes tuition, fees, and required educational materials.
Detailed Breakdown of Costs
- Tuition: $76,932
- University Fee: $1,630
- Technology Fee: $630
- Supplies, Instruments, and Materials (BSIM Fee): $10,874
- Health Insurance: $3,916 (mandatory unless waived with proof of comparable coverage)
Additional Financial Estimations
Financial estimations for students starting Fall 2025 provide a year-by-year breakdown of costs:
| Year | In-State Tuition | Out-State Tuition | Additional Fees | Estimated Living Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D1 | $76,932 | $76,932 | $17,050 | $23,490 |
| D2 | $76,932 | $76,932 | $15,474 | $28,710 |
| D3 | $76,932 | $76,932 | $15,474 | $28,710 |
| D4 | $76,932 | $76,932 | $15,474 | $28,710 |
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Creighton University recognizes the financial challenges of dental education and offers various forms of financial support, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Scholarships
More than 125 scholarships are awarded to dental students each year, ranging from $500 to $24,000. These scholarships are distributed based on both need and merit. Students are automatically considered for scholarship funding through their application materials, eliminating the need for a separate application.
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Federal Financial Aid
Students are encouraged to apply for federal financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), using Creighton’s Title IV school code: 002542. Admitted applicants should apply by February 1, and current students should do so as soon as the FAFSA becomes available.
Loans
Loans, including Federal Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS loans, are common options for covering the remaining costs of dental education.
Additional Resources
For additional information about tuition and billing, students can visit Creighton Student Accounts.
Admission Requirements
Gaining admission to Creighton University School of Dentistry is competitive. The school receives around 2,000 applications per year and enrolls just over 115 first-year students, resulting in an estimated acceptance rate of between 5% and 6%.
Academic Requirements
While a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is not mandatory, it is strongly preferred. Most admitted applicants have completed coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, or related sciences from a four-year institution. A strong science foundation is critical for success in the DDS program’s rigorous curriculum.
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DAT Score Requirements
Applicants must meet the school’s minimum DAT score thresholds to qualify for consideration. Creighton requires a minimum score of 17 in three key areas: Academic Average, Total Science, and Perceptual Ability. DAT scores are valid only if taken between June 1, 2021, and December 31, 2024. Applicants who fall below the required minimums must retake the test for their application to be reviewed.
| Section | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| Academic Average | 17 |
| Total Science | 17 |
| Perceptual Ability | 17 |
Dental Shadowing Requirement
To be eligible for admission, applicants must complete a minimum of 65 hours of shadowing in the dental field. This experience may include time spent with general dentists or dental specialists. Shadowing should reflect meaningful exposure to the daily responsibilities of practicing dentists and show that the applicant understands the demands of the profession.
Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation are required and must be submitted through the ADEA AADSAS application service. At least one letter must come from a science professor who has taught the applicant in a college-level course. Strong letters speak to an applicant’s academic performance, character, communication skills, and potential for success in a clinical setting.
Interview Process
Applicants invited to continue will:
- Complete a virtual interview with a member of the admissions committee
- Attend a mandatory in-person presentation on campus, which includes a curriculum overview, student affairs info, and a school tour
- Virtual ambassador meeting with a current D3 or D4 student
Creighton Dental School Admissions Statistics
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Applicants | 2,072 |
| Enrollment | 460 total |
| First-Year Students | 117 |
| Mean GPA | 3.72 |
| Mean Science GPA | 3.64 |
| Mean DAT Academic Score | 21 |
| Mean DAT Perceptual Score | 21 |
| Mean DAT Total Science | 20 |
| Acceptance Rate (Estimated) | ~5.6% |
Creighton Dental School Application Process
Application Timeline
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| ADEA AADSAS Opens | May 14, 2024 |
| First Day to Submit Application | June 4, 2024 |
| Creighton Supplemental Application Opens | June 10, 2024 |
| Application Deadline | December 31, 2024 |
| Document & Supplemental Deadline | January 6, 2025 |
| Interview Season | September 2024 - February 2025 |
| First Acceptance Notifications | December 13, 2024 |
Programs Offered
Creighton University School of Dentistry offers several programs:
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Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
Creighton’s four-year DDS program combines foundational training in the basic sciences with extensive clinical experience. Students begin with courses in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and microbiology, then move into hands-on instruction in diagnostics, pain management, and patient care. Clinical training starts early and increases in complexity each year, with students eventually providing comprehensive dental care in Creighton’s campus-based clinic. The program emphasizes professional communication, ethical practice, and service to underserved populations, preparing graduates for general dentistry or future specialization. The program also utilizes advanced tools and technologies to enhance the learning experience for students.
Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Dental Program
For individuals who need additional academic preparation before entering dental school, especially those who have already obtained a bachelor's degree, Creighton offers a four-semester post-baccalaureate program. This track is designed to help students strengthen their science background-especially in biology, chemistry, and physics-and demonstrate their readiness for dental school. Participants receive support through faculty mentorship, academic advising, and a curriculum tailored to the admissions expectations of the School of Dentistry.
Master of Science in Oral Biology
The MS in Oral Biology program provides advanced graduate education in areas such as oral anatomy, physiology, and dental materials. It also includes research training for students interested in academic or scientific careers. The program is ideal for future dental educators or researchers who want to contribute to innovation in oral health. Academic performance, clinical exposure, service activities, and professionalism are all reviewed together. The committee looks for students who not only meet academic benchmarks but also demonstrate a genuine interest in the dental profession and a commitment to patient-centered care.
International Dental Graduate Programs
Creighton University also offers programs for international dental graduates, including the Traditional Predoctoral Program for IDGs and the Advanced Standing Program for IDGs.
Tips to Strengthen Your Dental School Application
- Prioritize Long-Term Service with Real Impact: Commit to long-term roles in clinics or nonprofits where you’ve seen the impact of oral health disparities firsthand.
- Choose Recommenders Who Can Speak to More Than Academics: Ask for letters from people who’ve seen your work in clinical or professional settings-especially those who can vouch for your readiness to treat patients with empathy and responsibility.
- Strengthen Key DAT Sections That Reflect Clinical Readiness: Boost scores in areas like Perceptual Ability and Total Science, which show your preparedness for hands-on work and science-heavy coursework.
- Reflect on Shadowing With Depth, Not Just Hours: Describe specific patient encounters or ethical moments you observed. This shows maturity and a real grasp of the human side of dentistry.
- Use the Campus Visit to Show Cultural and Mission Fit: Ask thoughtful questions, engage with faculty, and reference what you learn in follow-ups. This shows emotional intelligence and signals genuine interest in the school’s approach to education and service.
Other costs
Postbaccalaureate Cost of Attendance
The Postbaccalaureate program has different costs:
- Based on 3 terms (Summer, Fall, Spring)
- Summer 2025: Total $7,855
- Fall 2025: Total $33,086
- Spring 2026: Total $31,139
- Based on 4 terms (Summer, Fall, Spring, Summer)
- Tuition $31,150 for 4 terms (Summer, Fall, Spring)
- Fees Full-Time $4,726 for 3 terms (Summer, Fall, Spring)
- $3,692 Student Health Insurance per year (optional)
Additional Fees
- Tuition Remission Administrative Fee (mandatory for 100% CU tuition remission, tuition exchange and FACHEX programs) - $1,250 (per semester)
- Per Credit Hour - $88
- Student Health Insurance (12-month plan $4,424, 8/1/26-7/31/27)
- Student Health Insurance (semester plans) up to $2,275 (depending on semester)
- International Student Health Insurance (12-month plan $4,424, 8/1/26-7/31/27)
- Parking Permit Fee $218-$655 (Rate may be prorated if you bring a car midyear)
- Processing Fee for Nontraditional or Visiting Programs (per course) - $30
- Late Payment Fee (will be charged monthly to all unpaid tuition balances) - 2% of the outstanding balance, assessed monthly (up to 3 months each semester)
- Orientation Fee - $318 / NA
- Arts and Sciences Lab Fee: per course/per semester ($70 per lab capped at $140 per semester/$280 per year)
- Career Portfolio Fee (mandatory fee for all Heider College of Business students) - $340 / $170
- Heider College of Business Technology Fee: per course/per semester ($20 per course capped at $60 per semester/$120 per year)
- Nursing Drug Screening Fee (required for all new nursing students first semester enrolled and all junior nursing students) - N/A / TBD
- Accelerated Nursing Academic Program Fee (3 semesters; required for Omaha and Phoenix) - $1,500 per semester
Housing and Meal Plans
Creighton University provides various housing and meal plan options for undergraduate students.
Housing
- Traditional residence halls
- On-campus apartments for upperclassmen (limited availability)
- Apartment Rates (Upperclassman): Opus - Twelve Month - $5,335/semester, $12,700/full-year
Meal Plans
- Traditional Plans:
- All Access + $150 Dining Dollars + 5 Guest Passes: $3,235/semester, $6,470/full-year
- 14 Meals + $540 Dining Dollars + 5 Guest Passes: $3,235/semester, $6,470/full-year
- 10 Meals + $900 Dining Dollars + 5 Guest Passes: $3,235/semester, $6,470/full-year
- 7 Meals + $630 Dining Dollars + 5 Guest Passes: $2,220/semester, $4,440/full-year
- Flex Plans:
- Flex 85 + $405 Dining Dollars: $1,555/semester, $3,110/full-year
- Flex 65 + $360 Dining Dollars: $1,230/semester, $2,460/full-year
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