Pre-Optometry Information

When it comes to helpful information for optometric practitioners, patients, and prospective students, the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) is one of the best resources available. 

ASCO's website contains numerous links catering to everyone within the eye care world. In particular, the information found on their website can be especially useful for "pre-optometry" students (those in high school, undergraduate, or post-graduate planning to apply/enroll in optometry school).

Click here or on the ASCO logo to find out more!

Arguably the most important part of applying to optometry school is ensuring that all undergraduate course requirements have been successfully met and passed. While this step may initially seem simple, it can become surprisingly complicated since all U.S. accredited optometry schools have individualized admission standards. Therefore, the aforementioned ASCO has created an extremely helpful document (last updated April 2024) listing each current U.S. optometry schools' specific undergraduate course requirements. 

Click here or on the sheet to see more details!

Another fundamental aspect of applying to optometry school is both studying for and taking the OAT (Optometry Admission Test). Similar to the infamous MCAT, the OAT draws from a wide range of academic subjects - such as biology, chemistry, physics, and reading strategy. Typically, the mean score for the OAT is 300, as it's weighted on a scale of 200 to 400. Oftentimes, a score of 330 or greater will be viewed as highly competitive by optometry admissions committees. 

However, achieving such a high score is challenging since it usually requires months worth of intensive studying. Thus, listed here is a recommended YouTube video detailing the best study materials designed specifically for the OAT.

Click here or on the thumbnail to watch!