The Interview

A personal interview with the Admissions Committee will be required. Interviews will be arranged by the admissions office and begin in the Fall semester of each year. Interviews will be held in person at PNWU.

However, it is understood that travel to the school’s campus may be financially challenging. A live virtual option may be available for students demonstrating financial hardship. Applicants who are offered an interview and feel they cannot travel to Yakima due to financial hardship must contact the school immediately. Applicants who are accepted and had a virtual interview will be encouraged to visit the campus before the decision deadline. 

The interview will facilitate an assessment of the candidate’s communication ability, academic and other life experiences, contact with and knowledge about the dental profession, manual dexterity experiences, motivation, commitment to rural and underserved community service, and preparation to embark on the rigorous dental curriculum. 

Candidates selected for an interview will be informed via email. The email will outline the details of the interview. 

The interview will be all day, beginning at approximately 8:00 am and ending at approximately 4:00 pm. During this time, the candidates will receive presentations on the school and its curricular program, financial aid, a tour of the campus. Starting 2026, candidates will tour the community clinic facilities in Yakima. Candidates will have lunch with PNWU SDM students (once students are matriculated), and an interview. Time will be available for questions throughout the day. Applicants will be encouraged to ask questions during their interviews. 

The cost to attend a live interview can vary greatly depending on where the student is traveling from. Costs to consider are airfare or fuel, at least one hotel night, and food while visiting Yakima. Students may want to consider purchasing a business-appropriate outfit for the interview if they don’t already have one.

School of Dental Medicine Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements
Admission Prerequisite Mapping
Cost to Apply
The Interview
Notification
Helpful Links

Pathway Programs

Dental Hygiene Admissions
Master of Arts, Medical Sciences (MAMS)
Pathway Programs with Partner Colleges and Universities