ADAT for US Residency: Do You Need It for ADEA PASS? (2025)
Applying to specialty programs is more competitive than ever, leading many candidates to ask: is the ADAT for US residency actually necessary?
For many postdoctoral programs, the ADAT serves as a standardized “academic snapshot” that helps directors compare applicants from different schools. However, unlike the INBDE, it is not universally required. The key to a successful application is knowing whether your specific target programs require it, accept it as an alternative to the GRE, or don’t use it at all.
Here is everything you need to know about using the ADAT for US residency applications.
Does the ADAT for US Residency Matter?
The short answer is: it depends on your specialty.
For General Practice Residency (GPR) or AEGD, it is rarely required. However, for competitive specialties like Orthodontics, Endodontics, and Pediatric Dentistry, the ADAT for US residency is becoming a powerful differentiator.
It acts as an objective metric. Since GPA calculations vary wildly between dental schools, the ADAT gives program directors a standardized way to measure your biomedical and clinical knowledge.
ADAT and ADEA PASS: How Scores Flow
Most US dental residencies use the ADEA PASS (Postdoctoral Application Support Service). The good news is that the ADAT integrates seamlessly into this system.
If you request your official results be sent to at least one program, the ADA can also share your results with ADEA PASS.
- The Workflow: Once received, ADEA PASS posts the official results to your application.
- The Result: Every program you apply to through PASS will see your score. This makes the ADAT for US residency a “one-and-done” submission.
Real Examples: Programs That Use the ADAT
Requirements change every cycle, so you must check each program’s website. However, here are real examples of how schools use the ADAT for US residency selection process:
- Case Western Reserve University (OMFS): Lists that applicants must take the NBDE, GRE, or ADAT. In this case, a strong ADAT score saves you from studying for the GRE.
- UT Health San Antonio (Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology): States that applicants must take either the GRE or ADAT.
When to Take the ADAT for US Residency
Should you spend the time and money ($450+) on this exam? You should seriously consider taking the ADAT for US residency if:
- You are an International Candidate: If your dental degree is from outside the US/Canada, directors may not know how to interpret your GPA. A high ADAT score proves your competence in US standards.
- You want to skip the GRE: As seen above, many programs accept the ADAT instead of the GRE. Since the ADAT covers dentistry (which you already know), it is often easier to study for than the GRE’s math and vocabulary sections.
- Your GPA is average: If your class rank isn’t top-tier, a high ADAT score can redeem your academic profile.
When It Might Not Be Necessary
You might skip the ADAT for US residency goals if:
- Your target programs explicitly state they do not look at ADAT scores.
- You are applying to programs that heavily prioritize externships and interviews over standardized metrics.
Bottom Line
The ADAT for US residency is a strategic tool. It is not mandatory for everyone, but for the right candidate, it can be the difference between an interview invite and a rejection.
If you decide to take the leap, make sure you are prepared to score high.
Next Steps on ScoreADAT:
- Ready to apply? Read our guide on How to Apply for the ADAT.
- Need a target score? See what counts as a Good ADAT Score.