As an undergraduate student, you should be certain that your college plan includes the Required Pre-Optometry Curriculum and also allows you to build a strong foundation in the biological sciences. In addition to your college coursework, the Admissions Committee requires that you successfully complete the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).

Although a bachelor’s degree is recommended for application to ICO, it is not a requirement. If you will successfully complete at least 90 semester hours (135 quarter hours) prior to enrollment, you could begin the Doctor of Optometry program and join the profession of optometry a year sooner!

We recommend that you begin to assess your own strengths and weaknesses while you are still in school. This will allow you time to work on any areas which may need improvement. The following links may be helpful:

Compare Your Academic Background to ICO’s Entering Class Profile
Strengthening Your Application
Schedule an Admissions Counseling Session & Tour

College is also a great time to expand your knowledge about the profession of optometry and to learn as much as possible about the optometry school experience to be sure that it is the right fit for you. Your college experience will also likely offer many opportunities for extracurricular involvement. Joining a biology club, science society and/or pre-optometry club may be helpful.

Shadowing/Observing with an Optometrist
Resources for Exploring the Profession
Pre-Optometry Clubs
ICO On the Road
Attend an Open House or Info Session

Applications for admission are always available beginning in August preceding the year you wish to enroll. As you prepare to apply, keep in mind that you do not need to have completed all requirements for admission, such as prerequisite courses and the Optometry Admission Test at the time of application. As long as you will have successfully completed all academic requirements for admission before you begin optometry school and will take the OAT by March 15 of the year you would like to enroll, you should still apply early in the process.

Application Process Step-by-Step
Apply Online/Check Your Application Status