All 17 schools
and colleges of optometry in the U.S. require that you take the OAT.
The test is conducted by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
(ASCO) and is offered at Prometric Testing Centers around the country (but not in Bowling Green). Beginning in 2006, all OAT administrations are computer based (CBT).
It is suggested
that students take the test in summer of the year prior to seeking admission
(e.g.. summer 2006 for fall 2007 admission). Taking the test in the
fall may not give the student the best opportunity to gain acceptance,
as by the time official scores are reported (approx. 3 weeks later) application
deadlines are imminent and optometry school classes have already begun
to fill. There is a $185 examination fee that includes copies of the report for the student, his/her
pre-optometry advisor, and up to 5 optometry schools.
It is important
that the student prepare adequately for the test. While taking OAT
preparatory courses may or may not be helpful to you, it is important that
you have finished your physics (2 semesters), chemistry (four semesters)
and biology ( as much as you have time for) courses before taking the OAT.
Students will find courses in cell/molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry,
and physiology very helpful.
The test is
exclusively multiple choice and is composed of four sections: 1) Survey
of Natural Sciences (40 biology, 30 general chemistry, and 30 organic chemistry
questions, lasting 90 minutes; 2) Reading Comprehension, usually 3 reading
passages followed by 15-17 questions per passage, lasting 50 minutes; 3)
Physics, 40 questions lasting 50 minutes; and 4) Quantitative Reasoning,
45 minutes (calculators not permitted). There is a scheduled 15 minute
rest between the 2nd and 3rd section. The OAT is scored based on
the number of correct answers, therefore candidates are not penalized for
guessing. The score ranges from 200 to 400 with a mean score of around
300. A 350 is an excellent score representing approx. 90% ile.
Click
Here to go to the OAT site
