Associate of Applied Science and Technical Certificate - Dental Assisting Program Information

How do I apply to the CWI Dental Assisting Program?
Complete the admission requirements to College of Western Idaho.

Students must turn in their Dental Assisting Application to a One Stop Student Services location before they can register and be accepted into the program. This application consists of the following: 1) Three Professional Reference Forms – one of them being from a dental professional after a ½ day of job shadowing. 2) Physical Exam, Immunization Documentation and Dental Exam Documentation. The physical and dental exam documentation must be completed within six months of application. 3) A short essay stating why you are interested in a career in Dental Assisting.

You must have a recent Compass assessment score on file with CWI to enter the program unless you have completed college-level math and writing courses. You must complete the following courses before you can graduate from CWI in the Dental Assisting Program. It is recommended that you complete Communication 101, Math 123 and Psychology 101 (or score at least 53 on your Pre-Algebra Compass; at least 26 on your Algebra Compass; at least 80 on your Reading Compass; and at least 70 on your English Compass) prior to starting the Dental Assisting Program.

If you need a brush-up on your computers skills, CISA 101- Computer Literacy Skill Development is a course designed to help students develop their skills.

For all questions and concerns regarding completion of this application process, One Stop Student Services can assist you by phone at 208.562.3000, by e-mail, or by visiting any One Stop location (Nampa Campus, Canyon County Center, Ada County Campus and CWI at BSU). See Maps & Campus Locations for directions.

Step 1:
Apply separately to CWI ». Go to CWI One Stop Student Services and submit all official transcripts directly to CWI Registrar. Transcripts from all high schools and all colleges attended must be submitted. To complete the CWI application you will also need to complete the Proof of County & State Residency Form. You need to complete this step as soon as possible so your CWI application and transcripts are verified prior to acceptance into the program.

Complete Dental Assisting Application »
Now you are ready to complete the Dental Assisting Application form. Begin by entering your personal information. Be sure to write your name at the top of page 2.

Step 2:
Assemble the following materials in this order:

1. 3 professional references using the Professional Reference form only ». No letters of recommendation will be accepted. The forms are to be filled out, signed, and placed in a sealed envelope by your reference person. The reference person should sign their name over the seal and return the sealed envelope to you. You will include the 3 sealed envelopes in your application packet. No references will be accepted if mailed or faxed directly to CWI. Check the reference box on the application form when you have included all three references.
2. Complete Physical Exam & Immunizations Forms »
3. Complete Dental Exam Form »
4. Personal Statement: Attach your written explanation, with a minimum of 150 words, of why you are pursuing training and a career as a Dental Assistant. If you are re-applying, indicate what steps you have taken to improve your skills since your last application.

Step 3:
PRE-REQUISITES: The pre-requisites for the program are COMM 101 or ENGL 101, PSYC 101 and MATH 123. For maximum consideration, all pre-requisite courses should be completed prior to application deadline. Enclose a non-official copy of your transcripts. Highlight courses as they appear on your transcript(s) and complete the following information. Check each pre requisite completed.

You must have a recent Compass assessment score on file with CWI to enter the program unless you have completed college-level math and writing courses. You must complete the following courses before you can graduate from CWI in the Dental Assisting Program. It is recommended that you complete Communication 101, Math 123 and Psychology 101 (or score at least 53 on your Pre-Algebra Compass; at least 26 on your Algebra Compass; at least 80 on your Reading Compass; and at least 70 on your English Compass) prior to starting the Dental Assisting Program.

For full credit, pre-requisite courses must be completed prior to application deadline. Enclose a non-official copy of your transcripts. Highlight courses as they appear on your transcript(s) and complete the information grid on the application. Check off each pre-requisite previously completed. If you are currently attending a pre-requisite course, 1/2 credit is awarded upon verification of course credit and grade. Complete a Course Credit Verification Form » for Current Enrollment and include with your application packet.

Step 4:
Complete the Science or Medically Related Coursework section.

Step 5:
Complete the Follow-up/Emergency Contact Information.

Step 6:
Sign and date the application.

FINAL STEP - Submission of Application:
Include this completed application form with all the additional materials required in Steps 2-6. Place all the required materials in the proper order into one large envelope. Seal it and sign your name across the seal.

Write your name and “Dental Assisting Application” on the front of the envelope. Deliver all materials in one large envelope to One Stop Student Services, at any College of Western Idaho campus. Your submission will be date and time stamped and a receipt of submission of the packet will be given to you.

You are responsible for completing all steps and including all forms. After you have submitted your application envelope to One Stop Student Services, please contact Terrie Beckman, Dental Assisting Program Head, for an interview at 208.562.2315 or terriebeckman@cwidaho.cc. (Email is preferred)

When will I be notified if I have been selected for admission?
It is your responsibility to contact Terrie Beckman, above, for an interview after you have submitted your application envelope.

To Get Financial Aid:
Almost all prospective students are eligible for some kind of financial aid, regardless of credit history, income or assets. Visit Financial Aid for more information.