1. Getting into Competitive Subjects DENTISTRY Dr Simon Wood BChD Admissions Tutor Leeds Dental Institute University of Leeds Dr Duncan Wood Admissions Tutor School of Clinical Dentistry University of Sheffield

2. Dentistry – Typical Entry Requirements 6+ GCSEs (inc Maths and English at Grade C; Biol and Chem or Dual Sci) 3 A2 levels: Grades AAB (must include grade A in Biology and Chemistry) UKCAT (most, but not all Dental Schools) Graduate qualifications are also considered (eg. 2.1(Hons) or higher in a life science.

3. How competitive is it? Nationally: < 2.5 applicants for each place. (UCAS Website) Those with predicted minimum requirements is probably less than 2 applicants per place. What is the problem?

4. Approx 1400 applicants for 85 places (81 Home/EU; 4 International). Therefore the selection procedure is tough and sometimes blunt. At Sheffield… Over 1000 applicants for 75 places. At Leeds…

5. Facts & Figures 1000+ applicants 300-350 interviews 200-220 offers 100-110 accepts 75 meeting the requirements

6. Problems for Selectors Pressure to hit targets. If we overshoot… If we undershoot…

7. Problems for Selectors Increasing number of graduate applications Increasing number of ‘post qualification’ applications

8. Problems for Selectors Working with unreliable predicted grades (Schwartz report) Selecting from high achievers No AS (A1) results

9. Problems for Selectors Should we concentrate on academic achievement or academic potential? Widening Participation Obstacles to achievement

10. A Holistic approach… Difficult because: Each student must be assessed fully, with strong, supported evidence. Time Weight given to each criteria

11. Selection for interview: GCSE Results Predicted A2 grades Academic Reference Personal Statement (non-academic achievements) Academic Potential UKCAT (not currently required at Leeds)

12. Personal Statement: Demonstrates knowledge of profession, work experience. Demonstrates leadership skills, team working. Demonstrates motivation: Sports, work, voluntary work, dedicated to interest or hobby.

13. What makes a good Personal Statement? Assessment of Statements.

14. The Interview ~15 mins; structured. 3 panel members. Predetermined list of questions (motivation, social awareness, responsibility, interests). Opportunity to ask questions Panel scores individually and then agree an overall subjective rating for the applicant.

15. Motivation to study Dentistry at a particular School Understands the demands of HE Can demonstrate self motivation Explains why this School is their preferred option. Is knowledgeable about the course, school, university and city.

17. Communication Skills Answers questions Doesn’t gabble Articulate Engaging Can argue when appropriate