First, let's define the Letter Packet.

A Letter Packet includes a cover page, submitted evaluator letters, and an advisor summary authored by your PPH Advisor. The Letter Packet (a single pdf file) is submitted from the PPH Advising office to AADSAS.

How do I receive Letter Packet services for my dental school application?

As a JMU student/alumni seeking Letter Packet services, it is expected students will complete the Pre-Application Review (PAR) process. This includes the following:

1. Submit the Intent to Apply Form by 2/1/25
2. Complete your Pre-Application Review (PAR) document.
3. Schedule and attend a 90 minute Pre-Application Review (PAR) appointment with your PPH Advisor. Your PAR document is the focus of the PAR appointment. Your advisor will review your PAR document in advance of your PAR appointment.
4. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that all letters of recommendation have been received by the PPH Office. Students receiving a letter packet must agree to waive their right to view the Letter Packet contents. Dental school admissions strongly encourage applicants to submit a confidential letter file.

What is the Pre-Application Review (PAR) Meeting?

The PAR materials and PAR meeting are designed to support you as you construct your primary application to dental school. The PAR materials are essentially a draft of your application materials (including activity descriptions, essays, and personal statement). It is an opportunity to receive feedback and to strengthen your application and candidacy. Your PPH advisor will also provide support in your decision making on letters of recommendation and serve as a point of contact for your selected letter writers. The PAR process formally begins once you submit your Intent to Apply form and will continue through the application cycle.

While a Letter Packet or Committee Letter is the preferred method of delivery by admissions committees, you are not required to apply to Dental school with a Letter Packet from the PPHA office. You may apply with individual letters and forgo the PAR process. If you choose to send individual letters of evaluation, please follow the instructions in AADSAS.