The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is a standardized examination designed to measure general academic ability and comprehension of scientific information. The OAT is sponsored by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) for applicants seeking admission to an optometry program. All 17 schools and colleges of optometry in the United States, and the University of Waterloo, Canada require the OAT. Registration information for taking the OAT is available online at: http://www.opted.org/info_oat.cfm .
The OAT exam is computerized and examinees are allowed to take the OAT an unlimited number of times but must wait at least 90 days between testing dates. However, only scores from the four most recent attempts and the total number of attempts will be reported. While the OAT may be taken after as little as one year of college, most students elect to complete two or more years of college prior to taking the exam. Pre-requisite courses for the OAT include courses in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry and physics.
The OAT consists of four tests:
Survey of the Natural Sciences (Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry),
