OAT Test
The OAT or the Optometry Admission Test is a standadization test that is required by all U.S and Canadian opomer schools and colleges. All the questions asked are of multiple-choice type. The OAT test measures the student’s knowledge on scientific information and also the basic scientific capability. The ASCO or the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry sponsors the OAT test. The OAT test fee is $189. This fee includes the sending of test reports to five optometry schools chosen by the student at the time of registration. For official score report sending received after the registration formalities, each report will be charged $15 extra. More information about the OAT test can be availed from
Optometry Admission Testing Program,
211 E. Chicago Ave.,
Chicago, IL, 60611,
They can be reached at 1-312-440-2693
The OAT was once in paper pencil format, which is ruled out now. Now only the online format is available. It is advisable to take the OAT as soon as completing the basic courses in order to take the re-test if necessary. It is better to take the OAT test more than once. Some institutions like the Berkeley School of Optometry uses the highest total test score for ranking purposes. Throughout the world the Thompson Prometric testing ceners take care of the OAT test administration. A minimum three-month gap must be given between one OAT test and the next one. Some universities want their students to take the OAT before March 1st deadline. The OAT test results are given immediately to the students and later sent to the respective schools chosen at the time of registration.
Why OAT Test
All students aspiring to get admissions to schools and colleges of optometry should take a standardization test conducted by the Association of Schools and Colleges Optometry (ASCO). The OAT test scores predict the student’s future performance level. It is considerably a difficult test. Almost all subjects are covered in OAT test. Till date there is no test that can measure all the aspects of a person’s performance. The OAT can only measure the skills that are required for a fresh optometry student. Though the OAT score is very important in getting in to the optometry schools, it is not the deciding factor for admission. It is up to the respective college to decide when it comes to admissions. Hard work always pays and so is the case when it comes to the OAT test also. Good preparation always is a back up for the aspiring students. No chances can be taken when it comes to preparation. Good and careful preparation can bring about good results. Every year the OAT test is conducted in October and February. Subjects like Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Quantitative Ability, Physics, and Reading Comprehension are covered. For more details and further assistance the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) web site can be checked. The latest four attempts only will be considered