DICAS is an online portal used by nutrition students to apply to dietetic internships or RD programs. Learn how to apply and how to get ahead of the game.

Before taking a deep dive into your dietetic internship (DI) application, there are a few things you should be aware of.

One of the questions we get asked most often is how to best prepare for the DI application match. We always recommend that students begin their application process as soon as possible, so that they have enough time to confidently submit their application to the best of their ability and avoid stressing over last minute work.

The Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System, also known as “DICAS,” is the online portal used by dietetics students who are applying to DI. Most, but not all, DI programs use the DICAS match.

DICAS allows students to complete a single online application. Program directors can access the applications, but can’t see the order in which the applicant ranked his or her programs. Instead, the applicant’s rankings are submitted on D&D Digital. Read more about D&D Digital here. Upon review of the application, the program director and staff submit ranking for applicants in addition to the maximum class size.

How to Apply to Dietetic Internships:

DICAS opens a little over two months before the applications are due and the application portal closes. The information applicants fill out on DICAS include:

• Applicant Information: Contact information, personal information, and background information
• Match Information: Applicant’s D&D Digital ID
• Education Information: DPD course list form, colleges attended (majors, certificates/minors, transcript form, and cumulative GPA), session and coursework (all DPD grades including completed, in progress, and transfer DPD grades), and tests (GRE and TOEFL)
• DPD Program Information: DPD director contact information and confirmed declaration of intent
• Required Information: Awards, experience, & volunteer activities; personal statements (we recommend making a unique personal statement for each DI program. For personalized help, apply for our Get Matched Coaching program); updated resume; references (at least three references are required); and application certification
• Program Destinations: The DI programs the applicant is applying to

How to Get Ahead of the Game

Even though the application only opens a couple months before the deadline, that doesn’t mean that you must wait to work on your application when it opens.

If you want to get a head start on your DICAS application, get a coach to help you strategize each step of the application process. After applying, you’ll speak with our enrollment coach to learn more about your career goals and confirm that you’re a good fit for coaching. Click here to apply for Get Matched Coaching.

With the right strategy and support, you CAN land a spot in a dietetic internship/RD program and become a dietitian. I believe in you. 🙂

P.S. Have questions about Get Matched Coaching? Email me at jenny@allaccessdietetics.com and I’m happy to help.