The Application Process
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Take the OAT - preferably
in summer of the year prior to your matriculation (summer 2006 for fall
2007). It is best to have your scores sent to each of the schools
you are even considering applying to. Official scores from the Optometry
Admission Testing Program take up to 3 weeks to to arrive.
Talk to your pre-optometry advisor about your scores and decide if you
need to retake the test. A student must wait 90 days before attempting
a retake.
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One must apply directly to each school, there is no centralized
application service for optometry schools.
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Check with each school for the details of the application
process and specific prerequisites. This can most easily be done
on-line.
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Apply Early- Most schools accept applications any time after
August 1 (12 months prior to starting school). By the end of October,
well in advance of deadkines, schools have already received a hundred or more applications. Don't
wait until the deadline!!
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Print and complete your Personal
Data Sheet
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The application includes a personal statement (essay).
Don't procrastinate writing your personal statement. You should begin
before you take the OAT over the summer. Have peers and faculty proofread
and criticize.
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Have transcripts sent to each school. WKU has an online
request form at http://www.wku.edu/Dept/Support/AcadAffairs/Registrar/
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After receipt of materials each Optometry School will notify
the applicant directly for the need of any additional materials ("secondaries").
Return the secondaries promptly, this shows motivation and genuine interest
in that school.
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Schedule appointments with your pre-med committee (your advisor
and 2 other faculty from the Pre-professional Advisors Committee) to interview
you about optometry school. After all 3 interviews, the committee
members will assemble, compare notes and the chair (your academic advisor)
will compose the letter of evaluation. Most schools also require
a letter of recommendation from a Doctor of Optometry.
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The interview- If chosen, you will be asked to come to campus
for an interview. While a good sign, an interview does not guarantee
acceptance. For a students take on this process, go to the interview
feedback page
Last Update: August 10, 2006
Author: Kenneth
M. Crawford
