Skip Main Navigation
Skip Navigation
  1. Home
  2. Dental Assisting
  3. Admissions Procedure

Admissions Procedure

In order to be considered for the Dental Assisting program, you must apply during application period, March 15-May 31. 

The application is application-period specific.  There are 26 seats assigned by an online randomized lottery system.

This two -semester program (fall and spring) provides technical skills needed for employment in a dental office.  Students will develop the skills needed to contribute as a member of a dental health team in general chairside, specialty procedures, office management and x-ray techniques.

A grade of "C" or better in the designated dental assisting classes are required to move forward in the program.

Eligibility and application:

  • Students must be age 18 on the first day of class starting in August (required by California Codes - Business and Professions Code Section 2069-2071).  You will need to turn in proof of age with your application.
  • Complete and turn in an application during application period. 
  • Submit a copy of your AHC unofficial transcript (printed from your myHancock portal) showing completion of English 101 with a grade of "C" or better. You may turn in an application if you are currently (Spring) taking Eng 101 at time of application.
    • If you have taken English 101 at any other college, your equivalent course transcript must be processed through the Admissions and Records department transcriber. 

Entrance Requirements

Once accepted into the Dental Assisting program you will be emailed an acceptance packet that will require the following:

  • Complete health physical and immunization records.  Childhood immunizations - DPT, MMR, Varicella, Hep B series, and TB.  The immunizations are required by our clinical agencies for externship - Instructions/form will be included in the health packet.
  • Background Check - there can be NO open, pending or probationary status cases.  Our facilities contract decides on history of convictions per student.
  •  Drug Screening - there are NO exceptions to a positive drug screening.    If you fail or dilute your drug screening, you will not be able to retest for 1 year. (required by clinical agencies)
  • CPR - this course is taken in the summer as part of the mandatory orientation.  The acceptance health packet will give you the course information to register for.
  • Consent forms - included in acceptance health packet.

Upon successful completion of the program, students will earn a certificate in dental assisting, radiography, coronal polishing, and pit & fissure sealants, as well as law and ethics/infection control with HIPAA.  The certificates are only awarded to students who finish the entire program and requirements through Allan Hancock College. 

Students will be eligible to take the California Registered Dental Assistants Exam with the state to become an RDA.  Students may also earn an Associate in Science Degree in dental assisting.  Contact your counselor for more information.