Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is involved in the application process?
UIWSO will immediately begin processing admission applications in the order that they are received. For an applicant to receive full consideration, the following must be submitted:
- Completed centralized OptomCAS application (with UIWSO as a Designated School recipient)
- Completed UIWSO Supplemental Form for Admission
- Official Optometry Admission Test (OAT) scores released directly to UIWSO
Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended and letters of recommendation should be sent directly to OptomCAS for centralized processing.
The Admissions Committee will review all completed applications and will extend invitations for on-campus interviews to those candidates with competitive applications.
2. What is the admission application criteria?
Our admission policy will be competitive in order to select those applicants who have the potential for academic success and who will be a credit to the optometric profession as well as the global community. Eligible applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- Successful completion of prerequisite coursework (minimum of 90 semester hours)
- A recommended minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale
- A recommended minimum overall Optometry Admission Test score of 300
- Letters of recommendation
- On-campus interview conducted by a member of the Admissions Committee
- Extracurricular and community service activities
- Communication skills
- Interest in and understanding of the optometric profession
3. What are the deadlines for applying?
Candidates applying for the 2010 academic year must submit all application materials no later than May 1, 2010.
4. Is there an application fee for the UIWSO Supplemental Admission Form?
There is no fee for the UIWSO Supplemental Form for Admission.
5. Do I need to have a bachelor’s degree before applying to the School of Optometry?
A bachelor’s degree is not required, but it is preferred for applicants to UIWSO. All applicants must complete a minimum of 90 semester hours of college coursework from an accredited college or university prior to application.
6. Does UIWSO have a rolling admission?
Applications will be processed as they are received and offers of acceptance will be made on a rolling basis, therefore applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible during the application period. Qualified individuals will be admitted on a continual basis until the class is filled.
7. How soon will I know if I have been accepted?
Those students selected for on-campus interviews will be notified of their admission status after all required information has been received.
8. Do you accept transfer applicants from other Optometry schools?
The UIWSO endorses the concept that student continuity at a single institution for the duration of the professional degree program, is most often in the best interest of the student. Currently UIWSO does not accept transfer students, including those with advanced standing.
9. What is the expected class size?
Class size is projected to be approximately 64 students.
10. Is there a minimum OAT or GPA requirement?
UIWSO has a policy of competitive admissions, a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale is recommended. Also a minimum overall Optometry Admission Test score of 300 is recommended. Please refer to question #2 for admission requirements.
11. How should I prepare for the Optometry Admission Test (OAT)?
Please refer to the OAT Examinee Guide located at http://www.opted.org/ for detailed information on the administration of the examination. Test preparation materials and a sample test are located on the same site.
12. How long are the OAT scores valid?
Examinees are allowed to take the OAT an unlimited number of times but must wait at least 90 days between testing dates. Scores are reported directly to the designated school or college of optometry.
13. How many times can I take the OAT?
Please refer to Question #12.
14. What is the admission interview like?
Only those applicants with the strongest credentials will be invited to UIWSO for an interview. On the day of the interview, candidates will be personally interviewed by a member of the Admissions Committee where the candidate’s professionalism, motivation, initiative, communication, and interpersonal skills will be evaluated. Candidates will also receive information regarding financial aid, housing, and student services. A campus tour may also be provided, if requested.
15. How can I best prepare for the interview process?
Candidates will be expected to be on time and to dress professionally for their interview. Be prepared to discuss your academic background, any achievements or experiences related to your academic preparation, your motivation and interest in optometry as a profession, and your future professional goals. Most importantly, be yourself since the Admissions Committee would like to see a true picture of you as a student and as a future optometrist.
16. What is the tuition?
Please refer to the tuition and fees section.
17. How do I apply for financial aid?
Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any other documentation required by the Financial Aid representative by the appropriate deadline. Students are awarded and packaged financial aid for tuition, fees, books, room, board, transportation, and personal expenses. Upon admission and enrollment to UIWSO, students will be required to meet annually with the Financial Aid representative to review their financial needs and determine their financial packaging.
18. Is there housing available?
University on-campus housing options will be made accessible to Optometry students, based upon availability. Importantly, information on apartments and other housing options located in close proximity to the UIWSO campus will also be available to students.
19. Is there a dress code?
Yes, UIWSO Professional Dress Code and Conduct Policy is to promote the development of professional maturity and to maintain the atmosphere of professionalism required of a healthcare facility.
