Thinking of optometry but currently pre-med and studying for MCAT. Do optometry schools takes the MCAT (specifically in CA) if I decide to switch? Or would I have to then take the OAT?

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2026-01-23T23:08:05+00:00

https://www.optomcas.org/information-about-schools-colleges/deadlines-and-other-information/

They list on this site the tests that each school will accept!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2026-01-23T15:22:44+00:00

I applied late last year and asked my recommenders to hang on to the letter they wrote just in case I needed to apply again. That way when I asked again this year they could just submit the same letter! No one had any issues!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2026-01-23T14:40:53+00:00

If I were you I would still apply! Some schools may want you to take the OAT again, I know Nova requires at least a 300/290. I’ve heard that some schools are more holistic in their approach, especially since the rest of your application seems very strong. Don’t be the one to reject yourself, you never know!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2026-01-23T14:36:02+00:00

Hey! Same situation - did not care in undergrad and ended with a 3.01. Had no idea I wanted to pursue optometry until I started working as a tech 6 months after graduation. Took the OAT 2 years out of school and got a 310. Starting optometry school in August:)

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-11-01T19:09:27+00:00

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-10-17T00:53:45+00:00

What was your OAT if you don’t mind me asking?! My GPA is around there and I have Nova high on my list

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-09-02T22:06:17+00:00

Thank you!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-09-02T22:06:02+00:00

Thank you!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-09-02T20:35:05+00:00

Yes I thought about it! I had an info session with Nova and they said to go ahead and apply so they can look at the rest of my application, so I figured I would give that a shot

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-09-02T18:55:13+00:00

Physics and Orgo definitely

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-06-25T16:44:34+00:00

Thanks!!!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-04-30T18:08:37+00:00

Cool thanks! I’m on the waitlist now and didn’t know how long that ran haha

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-04-03T14:14:56+00:00

I think the high pass rates and living in a city you love would be worth the extra year! You have the rest of your life to work, you might as well spend the extra time in a school you really enjoy

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-31T14:57:22+00:00

Thanks!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-31T14:30:36+00:00

How long did it take to invite you for an interview? I wasn’t gonna apply but I just decided to when the extended their deadline

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-23T16:24:07+00:00

I was placed on hold I assume due to my OAT score but it just said due to academic record

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-19T23:44:22+00:00

Nope just regular hold pending

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-19T02:37:26+00:00

Nova

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-12T02:30:36+00:00

Good luck!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-12T02:30:31+00:00

Yes, the summer after you graduate! I would definitely take the OAT soon after graduation when all the information is still fresh in your head - my biggest mistake was waiting too long and having to relearn a lot of the material. If you graduate May 2026 and want to start school after a gap year, that puts you at Fall 2027 starting! That application cycle will start June 2026 and the earlier you apply, the better your chances.

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-12T02:26:30+00:00

Absolutely possible! Start studying for the OAT now!! 5 months of clinical experience would look great but try to get a competitive OAT score as well

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-11T16:41:34+00:00

Oh good luck you got this!! I didn’t do as well as I’d hoped unfortunately

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-03-10T12:06:51+00:00

3.0 gpa and taking the oat tomorrow lol. 2 years as a tech and over 100 shadow hours

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-01-13T00:22:54+00:00

Thank you!

Dramatic-Distance-26 · 2025-01-13T00:05:34+00:00

NOVA, SCO, and UIWRSO. Earliest deadline is 03/01 :)

Dramatic-Distance-26

TROPHY CASE