Preparation for optometry school involves engaging in experiences that develop and demonstrate skills in communication, leadership, community service, research, and familiarity with the profession. What you do with your time helps define who you are in your application. Optometry schools will learn what you care about and who you are through experiences that align with your interests and goals. Keep in mind that activities complement your coursework, but will not compensate for low grades. Both are important!

• Keep a detailed record of all hours and experiences — document contact information and reflections on each activity. Most students create an Excel spreadsheet to track their experiences.
• All activities should be completed during your undergraduate study.
• Try to complete activities consistently throughout the school year.
• Be intentional and deliberate in planning your experiences, so you are prepared to apply when the time comes.

Shadowing

Shadowing should be one of your first experiences as a pre-optometry student. Observing optometrists in action will help you gather the information you need to commit to the profession fully. Shadowing requires professional dress and conduct.

Competitive applicants shadow at least 2 different optometrists and accumulate 50-100 hours of shadowing.

Community Service

Because you are preparing for a humanitarian profession, it is important to have volunteer experiences that demonstrate a consistent and long-term commitment to serving others in your community. Look for service opportunities with an underserved population, in your community, on campus, or a humanitarian setting. Volunteer activities need not be optometry related but should be meaningful to you. Quality of the experience is more important than quantity.

Competitive applicants complete at least 3 different experiences and gain 200-300 hours of volunteer experience during their undergraduate study—this is in addition to any church service.

Leadership Experience

As an optometrist, you will be a leader in many ways. Professional schools admit students who have experience making and recognizing the consequences of their decisions. Leadership involves teamwork and builds solid communication skills. Examples of leadership could be mentoring, tutoring, society presidencies, student government, in a job, coaching, or church callings.

Competitive applicants complete 2-3 different experiences and gain 100-200 hours. At least half of your hours need to be non-church related.

Research Experience

Optometry schools desire applicants who understand scientific literature, know how research is performed and can distinguish credible research. Any research, as long as it is hypothesis-based and utilizes the scientific method can build your experience. As you do research, make sure you understand the hypothesis, the procedure, and your responsibility in the project. You can count research projects done in your courses or participate in research through faculty-directed work, Idaho INBRE, the UC-Davis internship, or other internships nationwide.

Not required for optometry school, but makes you a more competitive applicant.

Patient Exposure

Interacting well with patients is one of the key indicators of a successful future provider. While optometry schools do not require hours, it can make you more competitive. Hours in an optometric office are preferred.

Not required for optometry school, but makes you a more competitive applicant.

Hobbies

While optometry schools do not have requirements for hobbies, they are interested in well-rounded students who know how to balance work with recreation. Hobbies and interests can make your application unique to you.

"Double-Dipping"

To be competitive, you should strive to meet the requirements in each individual area. One activity should not be counted in two areas. This is called “double-dipping,” and makes it appear you are not taking the time to develop yourself fully. While an activity may be both volunteer and leadership, you will list the experience as a single experience on your application—recognizing there may be overlap in some experiences.

Helpful Websites and Resources

• American Optometric Association

When deciding which test to take to apply to optometry school, you will want to check with individual schools. Some schools require the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), while others will accept the OAT, GRE, DAT, or MCAT.

What content does the OAT contain?

The OAT is broken down into four sections:

1. Survey of Natural Sciences
2. Reading Comprehension
3. Physics
4. Quantitative Reasoning

How is the OAT scored?

On the OAT, scores range from 200 to 400 and are reported in increments of 10.

What Classes Should I Complete Before Taking the OAT?

BIO 180, BIO 181, CHEM 105, CHEM 106, CHEM 351, ENG 301, MATH 109 (or MATH 110x and MATH 111), and MATH 112 or 119 are all foundational courses to prepare you for the OAT.

What are the costs associated with taking the OAT?

The OAT costs $500. There may be other fees for extra score reports or rescheduling fees.

The costs for study materials, travel, and the exam can be between $500-$2500, depending on if you choose to self-study or purchase programs and materials.

There is a fee assistance program. You can find information about waiver requirements at ADA.org.

A limited number of partial fee waivers are available to OAT examinees each calendar year (January - December). The partial fee waiver covers 50% of the OAT fee. The partial fee waiver does not apply to any charges associated with rescheduling/canceling a test date or score reporting after the time of initial application. Partial fee waivers are granted on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible examinees who have submitted the required documents. An examinee is eligible to request a partial fee waiver if each of the following criteria is met:

• First-time examinee
• U.S. citizen or resident alien
• Has demonstrated financial hardship
• Received financial aid from their school

How do I register for the OAT?

Before you can apply to take the OAT or apply for admission to an optometry school, you must obtain a Personal Identification Number (PIN). You can register for a PIN at ADA.org/OAT/PIN. If you have tested or applied before August 1, 2014, a PIN has already been assigned to you. The OAT Program uses the PIN for identification of individuals and for the confidential and secure reporting, transmission, and tracking of test scores. Once you have a PIN, you may submit an OAT application at ADA.org/OAT. A new application must be submitted each time you wish to take the OAT.

Where do I take the OAT?

After your application is processed, you will receive an email with scheduling instructions. You may then call 800.688.5804 or visit Prometric.com to schedule your appointment to take the OAT. After your application is processed, Prometric will receive notification of your eligibility for OAT administration. To allow adequate time for Prometric to receive your eligibility information, please wait 24 hours after receipt of your eligibility email before attempting to schedule a testing appointment.

How do I Prepare for the OAT?

Give yourself at least two to four months to study for the OAT. Many sources recommend 200–250 hours. For example, you could plan on three hours per day, five days per week, for 3-4 months. It can help to find an OAT study buddy who can help you stay motivated and on task. Additional ideas to help:

• Take two or three real-time simulated practice tests—this is the best way to most accurately replicate the conditions you will experience on test day.
• Focus on fundamental concepts.
• Study efficiently by creating a study calendar and focusing extra time on subjects you find difficult.
• Study one subject at a time. By focusing on one subject, you will be able to digest the material quickly and effectively.
• Get into a routine and ensure you continue to sleep and eat well.
• Visit the ASCO test preparation website for practice test, OAT guide, and other helpful resources.

There are multiple test prep courses available. When deciding between the courses, consider the following:

• Cost: compare what resources will be available through each test prep course for the expense
• Location: some test preps are only available online while other test preps will have in-person classes or tutoring available
• Teaching Style and Structure: Compare the length of the programs, the teaching style, and how the programs are structured.

Helpful Resources and Websites

• ASCO Test Preparation

When deciding which test to take to apply to optometry school, you will want to check with individual schools. Some schools require the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), while others will accept the OAT, GRE, DAT, or MCAT.

What content does the GRE contain?

The GRE is broken down into three sections:

1. Analytical Writing
2. Verbal Reasoning
3. Quantitative Reasoning

How is the GRE scored?

Verbal Reasoning

130–170, in 1 point increments

Quantitative Reasoning

130–170, in 1 point increments

Analytical Writing

0–6, in half-point increments

What Classes Should I Complete Before Taking the GRE?

ENG 150, ENG 301, MATH 109 (or MATH 110x and MATH 111), and MATH 221 are all foundational courses to prepare you for the GRE.

What are the costs associated with taking the GRE?

The GRE costs $205. There may be other fees for extra score reports or rescheduling fees.

The costs for study materials, travel, and the exam can be between $205-$1500, depending on if you choose to self-study or purchase programs and materials.

The GRE Program offers a limited number of GRE Fee Reduction Vouchers on a first-come, first served basis to U.S. citizens or resident aliens who are college seniors or unenrolled college graduates who meet eligibility requirements.

To apply for a GRE Fee Reduction Voucher, students should complete the GRE Fee Reduction Request form (PDF) and follow the instructions on the form regarding submission of materials to ETS. Students should allow up to three weeks for processing and mail delivery.

How do I register for the GRE?

The GRE® General Test is available at more than 1,000 test centers in more than 160 countries. It is offered as a computer-delivered test year-round at most locations around the world. To register for the test, view your scores, and access other services, you'll need an ETS account.

The computer-delivered test is offered year round, and you can register online or by phone. How you register may vary depending on where you will test. Register for the computer-delivered test.

Where do I take the GRE?

View test centers and dates for the GRE General test. For the computer-delivered test, you can also view seat availability, though you won't be able to register without signing into your GRE Account. See Test Centers and Dates.

How do I Prepare for the GRE?

Give yourself one to three months to study for the GRE. Many sources recommend 100-200 hours of test preparation.

Additional ideas to help:

• Take two or three real-time simulated practice tests—this is the best way to most accurately replicate the conditions you will experience on test day.
• Study efficiently by creating a study calendar and focusing extra time on subjects you find difficult.
• Study one subject at a time. By focusing on one subject, you will be able to digest the material quickly and effectively.
• Get into a routine and ensure you continue to sleep and eat well.

There are multiple test prep courses available. When deciding between the courses, consider the following:

• Cost: compare what resources will be available through each test prep course for the expense.
• Location: some test prep courses are only available online, while other test preps will have in-person classes or tutoring available.
• Teaching Style and Structure: Compare the length of the programs, the teaching style, and how the programs are structured.

Helpful Resources and Websites

• FAQs about the GRE
• Prepare for the GRE
• GRE Test Content and Structure

Optometry schools admit students once a year in the fall, but applications are submitted 12-15 months before the desired optometry school enrollment date. Applications open each year in June for the following year admission.

When you apply depends on when you will complete your degree, complete necessary prerequisite coursework, and successfully take required tests (OAT or GRE). Timing is sensitive so you will want to plan well.

Apply early in the cycle, but make sure your application is the best it can be. Optometry school requirements vary from school to school — research schools early for specific information on their requirements.

Before submitting your application, have people with an unbiased eye go over the entire application to catch any errors.

Optometry School Application includes five main components:

1. The Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
2. Primary Application
3. Letters of Recommendation
4. Secondary Applications
5. Interviews

The Admissions Test - OAT or GRE

Check school websites to determine which test you will need to take to apply for admission.

Primary Application

Primary Applications are processed through a central processing service and can be sent to every school affiliated with that service. The application service for optometry school is called OptomCAS.

The application opens online in June and can be submitted as soon as completed. It is important to apply early!

READ ALL INSTRUCTION MANUALS AND DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY!

OptomCAS requires:

• Your test score (GRE, OAT, or other accepted test score)
• A list of all college classes taken, as well as official transcripts from each college where you have earned credit
• A list and descriptions of your activities since graduating from high school
• A Personal Statement outlining your motivation for pursuing a career as an optometrist
• Letters of Recommendation

NOTE: To help us advise other students, we would appreciate it if you would release your statistical information from your applications to the Health Professions Advisor when prompted. This information will always be kept confidential.

Personal Statement

Your personal statement is a very important piece of your application and should be given a high degree of attention in the process. You can begin creating your first draft at any time, but serious work should be done a few months before applying. A personal statement is about you and your motivation for pursuing a career as an optometrist. Remember, why you want to be an optometrist is different from how you were inspired to become one.

PLEASE NOTE, your audience has more optometry knowledge and knows what it is like to be an optometric professional. Don’t try to impress them with your knowledge of the field.

Get feedback! Have 3 or 4 people you can trust to be honest with you (professor, parent, advisor, etc.) read your essay and offer feedback. Give yourself plenty of time to make revisions.

A great personal statement will answer the following:

• Motivation - Why optometry?  Why optometry over another helping profession?
• Capacity - How have you prepared to become an optometrist? 
• Fit -  What makes you a good fit for the profession? 
• Vision - What impact do you wish to make?  

GENERAL PERSONAL STATEMENT DOs AND DON'Ts:

DO answer the question, “Why do you want to be an optometrist?”

DO concentrate more on actual experiences rather than speculation about future accomplishments.

DO focus more on what you can give rather than on what you can get by becoming an optometrist.

DO “show” more than “tell.”

DO limit the number of “I” statements you use.

DO share your background if it is appropriate.

DO describe meaningful experiences.

DO pay careful attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

DO pay attention to the character count (4500).

DO NOT use the “I want to help people” theme if possible.

DO NOT devote too much space to writing about other people (family, patients, an optometrist you know).

DO NOT summarize or merely repeat what is on the activity list on your primary application.

DO NOT use overly flowery language.

DO NOT assume everyone knows what you know.

DO NOT try to make jokes.

DO NOT use a foreign language.

DO NOT begin your essay with a quote.

Letters of Recommendation

OptomCAS has a service that allows your letter writers to upload your letter directly to the application and have them distributed to all schools to which you have applied.

Requirements for letters vary between schools, so research schools early and know what you need. Most schools require 2 or 3 letters.

Requesting Letters of Recommendation

• Ask if potential writers feel capable of writing a STRONG letter. If anyone is hesitant, you should probably try someone else.
• Ask if recommenders would welcome any written background material. You could include a brief biographical sketch or resume, your interests and activities, career goals, and motivation toward your intended profession.
• Always give recommenders ample time — two to three weeks at a minimum.
• Make sure letter writers know their letters must be signed and on letterhead
• Follow-up with your letter writers and be sure to send thank you notes.

Secondary Applications

Some Optometry schools will require a Secondary Application. These are specific to each school, and vary in length and structure, but often require one or more additional essays, or ask you to list certain experiences in a specific format. FOLLOW DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY.

Some schools send Secondary Applications to every student who submitted a Primary Application. Other schools will screen Primary Applications first and only send Secondary Applications to students who are under consideration for admission.

Secondary Applications usually have a fee attached, so it is a good idea to re-evaluate your list of schools at this point. If you have changed your mind about applying to a school, you do not have to complete their Secondary Application.

Make sure you promptly return your Secondary Applications with well-written, thoughtful, and professional responses.

Interviews

The final stage of the application process is the interview. If you receive an invitation for an interview, that is an indication that a school has decided that you are a qualified applicant and they want to get to know you better. Most optometry schools hold “interview days” where they bring in a group of applicants for a day that may consist of some or all of the following: Interviews, lunch, a school tour, and opportunities to meet students and faculty. Remember, the entire day is the interview, not just those times when you are in a formal meeting. Be on your best professional behavior all day!

Interviews can take many forms, so it is essential to research your schools and be prepared. A Health Professions Advisor can help you with preparation tips and practicing your interviewing skills.

The most common types of interviews are:

• One on one interview—Usually one or two 20-30 minutes interviews
• Multiple Mini Interview (MMI)—7-10 rooms with a different prompt or scenario posted on the door. You are typically given 2 minutes to think about the prompt before entering a room, and 5-8 minutes to respond to the question. Additional questions or a role play situation could be part of the interview.
• Group interview—Either one applicant interviewed by several interviewers, or a group of applicants interviewed by one or more interviewer.
• Zoom Interview—More schools are implementing video interviews. Before the interview, applicants are sent a link to a site like Zoom, Teams, HireVue, etc., where they will be asked to provide a timed video or written response to questions.

• Applications are submitted 12-15 months before the desired optometry school enrollment date. Applications can be submitted in June/July for the following year.
• It is helpful to create a timeline for yourself when applying to optometry school. Having an academic plan, a plan to complete extra-curricular activities and a plan for test preparation all contribute to your timeline.

Preparing to Apply

• Talk to the potential writers of your Letters of Recommendation. Give them plenty of time to write the letters.
• Continue with your volunteer, shadowing, or research activities until you have received an acceptance letter from an optometry school. Do not stop these activities until you have an official offer of admission. It may take more than one application cycle to gain admission, so you need to be continually improving your application until you do.
• Prepare for and take the OAT or GRE– Register for and take it by the end of April in the year you submit your application.
• Consult the OptomCAS website for school requirements. Always confirm school-specific requirements by checking each school’s website directly.
• Continue to save money for the application process.

International students are students who are not green card holders or permanent residents. A permanent resident is generally considered the same as a US resident for application purposes.

International students not holding a green card can be accepted to some US optometry schools.

If an international student is accepted, schools have policies that may require a student to show evidence of their capacity to pay tuition above and beyond the INS requirements for an I20. Some schools may expect the student to pre-pay tuition for the entire four years or create an escrow account for these funds. Some institutions will accept loans co-signed by a US citizen.

International students do not qualify for Federal Financial Aid, but a few institutions may provide merit scholarships.

Research Schools and Plan Accordingly

Each school is different, and it is imperative that you check individual admissions websites to view policies regarding international applicants, coursework requirements, financial requirements, etc.

Create a Financial Plan for Optometry School

Optometry school is an expensive endeavor. The average cost of attending a 4 year program can range from $75,000 to $220,000. International non-resident students do not qualify for Federal Financial Aid, so consider alternate options. For instance, some institutions offer school-specific loan programs. Additionally, some major banks offer private student loans to international applicants, but you would need to have a co-signer who is a citizen of the US.

The key is to evaluate the available options and have a plan in place before starting school.

Most Important, Make Yourself a Competitive Applicant

This really is the key to the whole process. When you apply, it is imperative there are no gaps in your application.