Pre-Optometry
If you’re interested in attending optometry school, the Pre-Optometry Pathway may be for you. This pathway is not an official program, it’s the process of preparing to be eligible to apply to optometry school.
While it may be helpful, you do not have to be a science major to get into optometry school. As long as you complete the admissions requirements, optometry school can still be an option for non-science majors. Determine if optometry is the right path for you.
Pre-Optometry Resources On This Page:
- Prerequisite Coursework
- Examination
- Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Applications
- Pre-Professional Advising
Prerequisite Coursework
Review the Optometry School Prerequisite Courses for important information regarding coursework for optometry school.
Examination
Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
The OAT is a standardized multiple-choice exam that is one of the components of the admissions process. Review the OAT Candidate Guide for more information.
Testing Accommodations
There are reasonable and appropriate testing accommodations available in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
If you have a disability or medical condition that you believe requires an adjustment to standard testing conditions, you are encouraged to submit a request for testing accommodations. Refer to the OAT Candidate Guide for information on how to submit a request.
Fee Wavier
Partial fee waivers for the OAT are available on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible candidates.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
Schools calculate different categories of GPAs, such as Overall, Science, and Non-Science. Refer to the Calculating Your OptomCAS GPAs resource.
Applications
Most applicants use the OptomCAS (Optometry Centralized Application System) to apply to optometry schools.
