OD program GPA requirements
| Metric | Typical minimum | Competitive average |
|---|---|---|
| Overall GPA (OptomCAS) | 3.0 | 3.4 – 3.6 |
| Science GPA | 3.0 in sciences | 3.3 – 3.6 |
| OAT Academic Average | 300 (approx.) | 330 – 360+ |
There are only 23 ACOE-accredited optometry programs in the United States. This limited number of programs creates significant competition for seats. ASCO publishes aggregate applicant and enrolled student data annually — check opted.org for the most current figures. Individual program websites publish their own admitted cohort statistics.
How OptomCAS calculates your GPA
OptomCAS recalculates GPA from all official undergraduate and post-baccalaureate transcripts submitted. Key aspects of the OptomCAS calculation:
- All undergraduate institutions: Community college, transfer coursework, dual enrollment, and summer sessions are all included.
- Grade replacement: OptomCAS policy on repeated courses can change between application cycles. Verify the current applicant guide at optomcas.liaisoncas.com for the exact treatment of retaken courses.
- Science GPA calculated separately: OptomCAS calculates an overall GPA and a science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math — BCPM) GPA reported separately to programs.
- Graduate coursework separate: Post-baccalaureate and graduate coursework is reported separately and may be evaluated independently by programs reviewing your file.
OAT scores and GPA
The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is administered by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and required for admission to most US optometry programs. The OAT is scored on a scale of 200–400, with an average score of approximately 300. OAT sections include:
- Natural Sciences (Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry)
- Reading Comprehension
- Physics
- Quantitative Reasoning
OAT scores and GPA are evaluated together. A strong OAT score (350+) can compensate for a GPA at or slightly below the competitive average, and vice versa. However, neither a high GPA alone nor a high OAT score alone guarantees admission — programs evaluate both.
Science prerequisites for OD programs
Common science prerequisites (verify for each program — requirements vary):
- General Biology (2 semesters) with lab
- General Chemistry (2 semesters) with lab
- Organic Chemistry (1–2 semesters) with lab
- Physics (2 semesters) with lab — including optics
- Calculus or Statistics
- Microbiology (some programs)
- Biochemistry (some programs)
Physics — particularly the optics component — is especially relevant to optometry and is weighted meaningfully in both OAT content and by admissions committees reviewing science prerequisites.
Optometry shadowing and observation hours
Shadowing a licensed optometrist is expected — though not always formally required — for competitive optometry applications. Shadowing demonstrates understanding of the scope of optometry practice and commitment to the field. Unlike medicine or PA programs, there is no widely standardized minimum hour requirement, but common guidance is:
- A minimum of 40–100 hours is commonly recommended
- Exposure to multiple practice settings is valued: primary care optometry, contact lens fitting, pediatric optometry, low vision, hospital or VA optometry
- A letter of recommendation from a supervising OD is valued at many programs