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Application Process for Students

This page covers the application process for programs leading to the RDN credential.

Application Overview

Application and admission processes vary depending on the program type.

For application information to dietetic technician programs and didactic programs in dietetics, visit the program's website for more information and requirements.

Coordinated programs, future education model graduate programs and dietetic internships may use Dietetics Inclusive Centralized Application Service to collect applications beginning in October 2022 for summer 2023 or later start dates.

Applicants to dietetic internships must also participate in the computer match process through D&D Digital as part of their application process whereas Coordinated Programs and Future Education Model Graduate Programs do not participate in computer matching.

Dietetics Inclusive Centralized Application Services (DICAS)

DICAS is a web-based application service used by applicants to apply to multiple programs by completing a single online application. DICAS simplifies and streamlines the application process for applicants looking to apply to dietetics supervised practice programs.

Application Process

  • Visit the DICAS Platform to search for supervised practice programs (DI, CP, GP and ISPPs) of interest.
    • If the program you are interested in does not appear in the DICAS, check the program's website for directions on how to apply or contact the program director.
  • If you are applying to a Dietetic Internship (DI), you must also register in D&D to rank supervised practice program in which you are applying. Register for the DI match through D&D Digital. This step allows you to create, edit and verify the priorities for your choices of internships. Some program types (CPs, GPs and ISPPs) do not participate in the match.

Videos

D&D Digital

D&D Digital is a web-based service that matches DPD students (applicants) to dietetic internships each spring and fall based on both the applicants and programs ranked order of preference. Those rank order lists are "matched" with each other to select which (if any) program an applicant would be "matched" with.

Information and Videos

Timelines

Contact Information

  • If you need assistance with the centralized application, please contact DICAS customer support at 617/612-2855.
  • If you need assistance with computer matching, please contact D&D Digital customer support at 515/292-0490.
  • If you have any general questions about applying to dietetics programs, contact ACEND.

Find-a-Preceptor Database

The Find-a-Preceptor Database allows program directors and students to search for a preceptor within a certain geographical or specialty area.

Open House Listings

These listings are being made available through Nutrition and Dietetic Educators and Preceptors and provide information regarding open houses being hosted by ACEND® accredited dietetic internships, coordinated programs and nutrition and dietetics graduate programs.

If you have questions specific to any of the open houses, please direct them to the contact person designated on the listing.

Find an ACEND-Accredited Program

ACEND has more than 600 accredited programs across the United States and select countries internationally, with in-person and online options. Use the search filters to find the program that fits your needs.

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