Optometry

Overview

Doctors of Optometry (ODs) are the primary health care professional for the eyes.

As a pre-optometry student, you can major in anything. There is not a specific major that all pre-optometry students must have. Optometry schools care that you do well in your major and in your pre-optometry coursework. Think about what interests you and how you can prepare to be the best eye health professional you can be.

Application

Visit the Apply page for more on prerequisite coursework and grades, transcripts, activities, personal statements and letters of recommendation in general.

Application Timeline

Requirements vary by program. This is not an official planning sheet and should be used as a reference. Please consult with an advisor to plan out a timeline that fits you.

  • Start science prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology, General Chem, Organic Chem, General Bio, Microbiology, Psychology, Statistics, Calculus – UWB Career Services Coursework
  • Network: Join pre-health clubs, Shadow optometrists
  • Clinical Hours: Volunteer at hospitals/clinics
  • Summer: Enrichment or research program –  Applications due in January/February – UWB Getting Experience
  • OAT:
    • Winter-Spring quarter: Intensive Studying
    • July-Sept: Take OAT
  • Gather Materials:
    • Request letters of recommendation
    • Draft and revise personal statement
    • Collect transcripts
  • Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS)
    • June: Cycle Opens
    • May of next year: Closes
  • Summer: Interview Prep – Mock interviews, practice questions
  • September–March: Attend interviews, Send thank-you notes
  • Fall (Sept–Nov): Early interviewees may get acceptances before winter break
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Majority of offers are released.
  • Spring (Mar–Apr): Final offers and waitlist movement happen.
  • August: Begin Optometry School!

Resources