Optometry (OD)

4 Year Sample Plan

    • Meet with a pre-health advisor
    • Begin core science and general education course
    • Join a pre-optometry or health professions club
    • Start gaining exposure to optometry (shadowing, volunteering)
    • Continue prerequisites
    • Deepen involvement in clubs or campus organizations
    • Begin shadowing optometrists more seriously (aim for 30–100+ hours)
    • Explore research or summer enrichment programs
    • Finish or continue final prerequisites
    • Prepare for and take the OAT (spring/summer)
    • Begin researching optometry schools
    • Request letters of recommendation
    • Start OptomCAS application in June/July
    • Attend interviews (fall/winter)
    • Complete degree requirements
    • Apply for financial aid and scholarships
    • Graduate and prepare for matriculation the following fall