Optometry Admission Test (OAT) and other standardized tests are accepted by all optometry schools and colleges. Many schools and universities will also accept the GRE, MCAT, DAT, or PCAT instead of the OAT. It is recommended to contact schools and universities to learn about their specific exam requirements. Generally, most schools require the OAT, but there are some that require the MCAT. When deciding which test to take, it is important to consider the material covered in each exam.
The OAT has more material related to physics and organic chemistry than the MCAT. On the other hand, the MCAT is a comprehensive exam that evaluates content knowledge and cognitive skills in physical sciences, biological sciences, and verbal reasoning. To become an optometrist in Canada, you must first complete a Doctorate in Optometry program. This program requires a minimum of 8 hours of supervision by an optometrist. In the U.
S., all optometrists must have a doctor of optometry degree from an accredited school and have passed the NBEO exams or state licensing exams offered by individual states. Additionally, all states require practicing optometrists to take continuing education courses in order to renew their license. Postgraduate residencies are not mandatory to practice as an optometrist, but they are highly recommended to improve your chances of employment. Depending on whether you want to be an optometrist or an ophthalmologist, you'll be able to choose between these tests.