A small number of colleges and universities in the nation offer professional programs in optometry. Medical schools offer course work, clinical experience, and specialties in ophthalmology. See Medicine listed under Related Programs. Many four-year colleges and universities also require ACT or SAT scores. A minimum of three years of college is required to enter optometry schools.
Most students enter after four years of undergraduate study.
A student without a bachelor's degree must demonstrate exceptionally high scholastic achievement, intellectual capacity, and motivation to be considered for admission. Applicants are required to take the Optometry Admissions Test, given in October and March. The October test date is recommended. Contact a school of optometry for test application forms. Letters of recommendation, a personal essay, an interview, and specific courses may also be required for admission.