OAT - Optometry Admission Test
The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is a standardized exam designed to assess competencies in areas important for success in optometry school and a career as an optometrist. The exam covers four content areas: Survey of the Natural Sciences (Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry), Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning.
Most optometry schools require the OAT, but the IU School of Optometry has decided to make the submission of test scores optional. You may submit OAT scores, GRE scores, or no test scores to IU, and your application will be judged holistically based on all the materials you elect to share with the school.
A fundamental way to begin to prepare for the OAT is to review the concepts covered on the exam, which you can read about in the "scope of the examination" section of the OAT Guide. You can always find the most recent version of the OAT guide on the OAT website, and the guide also includes useful information about test scoring, fees, and other procedures.
Review the concepts and ask yourself if you are familiar with them. You should prepare intensively by reviewing material in OAT prep books. OAT practice exams are also available in various paper and electronic formats to help you prepare.
For more information on registering and preparing for the exam, please consult the OAT website.