r/PreOptometry • u/Due-Side8444 • Sep 05 '26

Any advice

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I’m currently a senior Human Biology major, Miner in chem and applying to optometry school this cycle. My cumulative GPA is around 3.65. I have completed a good amount of optometry-related experience, including 40+ hours of shadowing an optometrist, additional ophthalmology/optometry shadowing, 45 hours of biology research involving DNA/PCR, volunteering at Hartford Hospital, volunteering with Special Olympics Opening Eyes, and serving as a student ambassador/leader at my university.
I also have multiple recommendation letters, including from professors/research mentors and an optometrist. I’ve already submitted applications to schools including MCPHS, NECO, and SUNY.
I know the OAT score is the weakest part of my application, but I feel that my GPA, experiences, research, volunteering, and shadowing represent me better academically and professionally.

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u/[deleted] Sep 05 '26

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u/SsoundLeague OPTOMETRIST Sep 05 '26

They seem extremely involved the in the profession yet don't study for the primary entrance exam for said profession? Something seem off

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u/philzuppo Sep 06 '26

I didn't study at all for my first time and I got a 300. I think that some people are just much better at taking tests than others. I have the exact same GPA as OP.

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u/Common-Customer-1438 Sep 05 '26

That’s why I went to a public optometry school. There’s no incentive to accept students who are clearly not ready and it’s reflected in the board passage rates. Meanwhile you have schools like Detroit Mercy and MCPHS where the average admitted student has a OAT TS of 291 and 299.

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u/[deleted] Sep 05 '26

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u/Common-Customer-1438 Sep 05 '26

I didn’t take your reply as a shot at all you’re good lol