Also see a sample 4-year plan.
Optometrists Occupational Outlook
Optometrists are healthcare professionals who specialize in eye and vision care. They examine, diagnose, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, as well as identify related systemic conditions. Optometrists prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses, and vision therapy, and they play a critical role in detecting early signs of systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders through comprehensive eye exams.
To become an optometrist in the United States, one must complete a four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) program following undergraduate education. Some optometrists pursue residencies for advanced training in areas such as pediatrics, ocular disease, or vision rehabilitation.
Optometrists work in a variety of settings, including:
With the growing need for vision care in an aging population, the profession offers strong job stability, opportunities for entrepreneurship, and the chance to build long-term relationships with patients.
Optometrists differ from ophthalmologists (who are medical doctors performing surgery) and opticians (who fit lenses and frames), making them a vital middle ground in the continuum of vision care.
Most optometry schools require the following undergraduate coursework (generally completed by the end of junior or senior year):
Biology
General Biology I & II with labs; often Human Anatomy & Physiology
Chemistry
General Chemistry I & II with labs; Organic Chemistry I (& sometimes II)
Physics
Physics I & II with labs (algebra- or calculus-based)
Mathematics
Calculus and/or Statistics
English
1–2 semesters of English composition or literature
Psychology
Introductory Psychology (sometimes required or recommended)
Microbiology
Often required
Biochemistry
Required or highly recommended by many programs
Other
Ethics, public speaking, and social sciences (varies by school).
Always check the exact requirements for each optometry school through the Optometry Centralized Application Service (OptomCAS) or the school’s website.
Overall GPA
3.0 minimum
3.4 – 3.7+
Science GPA
3.0 minimum
3.4 – 3.7+
Science GPA includes biology, chemistry, physics, and math courses (BCPM). A strong upward trend can help if your GPA started low.
When to Take
Typically spring or summer after junior year
Subjects Covered
Natural Sciences (Bio, Chem, Org Chem), Physics, Reading Comp, Quantitative Reasoning
Scoring
Scale: 200–400; competitive score: 320+
Preparation Time
2–4 months of dedicated prep time recommended
Resources: Kaplan, The Princeton Review, OAT Bootcamp, Chad’s Videos
Usually 2–3 letters required:
1 from a science professor
1 from an optometrist
Optionally, a third from a supervisor, advisor, or another faculty member
Tip: Build relationships early and request letters 2–3 months in advance of deadlines.
Shadowing
Volunteering
Clinical Work
Centralized service for applying to most U.S. optometry schools
Opens in late June/early July
Includes:
Personal information and transcripts
Personal statement (4,500 characters)
OAT scores
Letters of recommendation
Experiences (work, leadership, volunteering)
Tips for Success
Build strong study habits early to excel in science courses.
Form relationships with professors and mentors.
Track your experiences and reflect on what you've learned.
Practice self-care to manage stress and avoid burnout.