Doctor of Optometry
We welcome your interest in the Doctor of Optometry program and the profession.
We seek applicants who show strengths in the sciences, and who bring strong interpersonal and communication skills. We admit students who have already invested time exploring optometry as a career and life choice.
One of The Best Academic Environments For Schools of Optometry In The Nation
The prescribed four-year curriculum is based in the medical model, emphasizing individualized attention and clinical development. The curriculum integrates classroom experience and patient contact, providing early exposure to clinical training captured through community outreach programs, rotations through our clinics and externships in clinical sites both nationally and internationally.
Distinctive features of the curriculum include case-based seminars, grand rounds, problem-based learning, incorporation of educational technologies such as web-based learning, classroom performance system, digital libraries, podcasts and video conferencing.
Opportunities exist for clinical research through our Summer Fellowship Training Program as well as study abroad in Europe.
Application Deadline for Fall 2027 is now open and will close on May 1, 2027.
Standardized Exam Score submission for Fall 2027 admission is due by May 1, 2027.
The UIWRSO application cycle runs from July through May, with admissions decisions made on a rolling basis. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as qualified candidates may be admitted until the class is filled.
For an applicant to receive full consideration, the following items must be submitted:
- Complete online OptomCAS application. All official transcripts from each college and/or university attended, letters of recommendation and your personal statement are submitted through the OptomCAS application process.
- Official Standardized Admissions Exam scores. UIWRSO recommends applicants complete the Optometry Admission Test (OAT). UIWRSO will also accept the MCAT and the DAT. The OAT official scores can be submitted through the OptomCAS application.
All applicants with complete applications and qualifying exam scores will be considered for an interview. The initial application review timeline will vary based on the competitiveness of the individual application in comparison to the applicant pool. Invitations for interviews are offered to candidates with the most competitive applications.
Doctors of Optometry (ODs) are the primary healthcare professionals for the eye and visual system. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases, injuries and disorders of the visual system, the eye and associated structures, as well as identify related systemic conditions affecting the eye.
Doctors of Optometry prescribe medications, provide low vision rehabilitation, vision therapy, spectacle lenses, contact lenses and perform certain surgical procedures.
Optometrists counsel their patients regarding surgical and non-surgical options that meet their visual needs related to their occupations, avocations and lifestyle.
An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry leading to the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice.
Optometrists are eye healthcare professionals, state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.
UIWRSO seeks academically strong, motivated applicants who demonstrate a commitment to the optometry profession. To be considered for admission, applicants must:
- Complete a minimum of 90 semester hours from an accredited college or university
- Earn a grade of C or higher in all prerequisite courses
- Maintain a recommended minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Submit OAT, MCAT, or DAT scores
- Provide two letters of recommendation, including one from a Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Submit a personal statement through OptomCAS
- Complete at least 20 hours of optometry shadowing with an OD (work experience may satisfy this requirement)
Applicants who submit a complete OptomCAS application and official admission exam scores receive full consideration for admission. UIWRSO uses a holistic review process that evaluates both academic achievement and nonacademic qualifications.
Factors considered during the admissions review include:
- Overall and science/prerequisite GPA
- Performance on admission exams
- Ability to succeed in a rigorous academic environment
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Optometry-related experience, including shadowing and employment
- Leadership, volunteer service, and extracurricular involvement
- Character, motivation, initiative, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to meet the functional standards established by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO)
Admission decisions are based on the overall strength of each application, with no single criterion carrying greater weight than another.
Final admission decisions are based on a comprehensive review of each applicant’s academic achievements, experiences, personal qualities, and interview performance. While meeting the recommended GPA and admission exam benchmarks may qualify an applicant for interview consideration, it does not guarantee admission.
The Admissions Committee reserves the right to interview, select and admit students on the basis of these academic and nonacademic qualifications, to ensure a class that is inclusive and academically competitive.
UIWRSO follows the Functional Standards established by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) to ensure students are prepared to provide safe, effective, and comprehensive patient care.
Applicants should be able to demonstrate competencies in the following areas:
- Observation
- Communication
- Sensory and motor coordination
- Intellectual, conceptual, integrative, and quantitative abilities
- Behavioral and social attributes
UIWRSO will consider these functional standards, along with those items listed in the Admissions Selection Criteria section. UIWRSO incorporates these guidelines, along with other established criteria, as standards for graduation from the four-year professional program.
Accommodations and Student Support
Applicants who may require accommodations to meet the Functional Standards are encouraged to work with the University to identify appropriate support and reasonable accommodations. Students are responsible for initiating accommodation requests and providing the necessary documentation. Upon review, the University will provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable policies and regulations.
Certain chronic or recurrent illnesses, including infectious, psychiatric or substance abuse problems that interfere with patient care or safety are not compatible with optometric practice or training. Other illnesses, such as immune disorders, may lead to a high likelihood of student illness and should be carefully considered. Candidates with questions or concerns about how their own conditions or disabilities might affect their ability to meet these functional standards are encouraged to meet with an optometry school counselor prior to submitting an application.
These standards are as follows:
Functional StandardsAdmission to UIWRSO requires a minimum of 90 semester hours of coursework from an accredited college or university. Within those credit hours, specific prerequisite courses listed below must be included. Each prerequisite course meets just one requirement. A candidate may apply while in the process of completing prerequisites, however, all requirements must be completed prior to enrollment at UIWRSO.
A grade of “C” or higher must be achieved in all prerequisite courses and all courses must have been completed within 10 years of the first day of classes for the entering student. However, the applicant can furnish evidence to the Admissions Committee of command of current knowledge in topics which do not meet the 10-year criteria.
UIWRSO Required Prerequisites
| Required Courses | Number of Courses |
|---|---|
| Biology | 1 course w/lab |
| Human Anatomy and/or Human Physiology OR Any of the following courses with laboratory may substitute: Biology II, Cell Biology, or Genetics. |
1 course w/lab |
| General Chemistry | 2 courses w/lab |
| Organic Chemistry | 1 course w/lab |
| General Physics | 2 courses w/lab |
| Microbiology OR Bacteriology | 1 course w/lab |
| Biochemistry OR Molecular Biology (minimum Junior level course or equivalent) |
1 course |
| Calculus | 1 course |
| Statistics | 1 course |
| Psychology | 1 course |
| English (Examples of writing intensive courses include: English Composition I, English Composition II, Technical Writing, Literature) |
2 courses |
Additional Requirements for Students Entering Without a Bachelor's Degree
| Required Courses | Number of Courses |
|---|---|
| Humanities (may include Theology, Philosophy, History, Foreign Language, Literature, Art) | 2 courses |
| Behavioral and Social Sciences (may include Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, History, Anthropology, Geography, Economics, Communications) | 2 courses |
Recommended Courses (Not Required)
| Recommended Courses | Number of Courses |
|---|---|
| Human Physiology II | Strongly Recommended |
| Human Anatomy II | Strongly Recommended |
| College Mathematics | Recommended |
| Ethics | Recommended |
All applicants must submit valid standardized admission exam scores to be considered for admission. While the Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is the preferred exam, UIWRSO also accepts other approved admission tests.
- Optometry Admission Test (OAT): The OAT is designed specifically for applicants pursuing a career in optometry and evaluates academic preparedness in the sciences and critical thinking. The exam includes eight scored sections. UIWRSO recommends a minimum score of 300 on each of the eight OAT subtests.
- Medical College Admission Test (MCAT): The MCAT is a standardized exam that evaluates critical thinking, problem-solving, and knowledge of the natural, behavioral, and social sciences. The exam consists of four scored sections. UIWRSO recommends applicants achieve a minimum total score of 500. Please contact the Office of Admissions for score submission instructions.
- Dental Admission Test (DAT):The DAT is a standardized exam designed to evaluate academic readiness and potential for success in professional healthcare programs. The exam assesses knowledge and skills in natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. UIWRSO recommends applicants achieve a minimum total score of 400. Please contact the Office of Admissions for score submission instructions.
Applicants may submit up to four letters of recommendation, with a minimum of two letters required for admission consideration.
At least one letter must be from a Doctor of Optometry (OD) who can provide an objective assessment of the applicant's understanding of and commitment to the profession. Both required letters may be submitted by Doctors of Optometry. Alternatively, applicants may choose to have their second letter submitted by a faculty member or academic advisor who can speak to their academic preparation and potential for success in a rigorous professional program.
UIWRSO accepts committee letters and composite letters; however, each will count as one recommendation. Letters submitted by teaching assistants will not be accepted.
Interview invitations are extended to applicants who demonstrate the strongest overall qualifications. Selected candidates will be contacted by the RSO Student Affairs team to schedule an interview.
During the interview day, applicants will meet with a faculty member and learn more about the Doctor of Optometry program, including the curriculum, clinical training opportunities, financial aid, housing, and student support services.
Preparing for Your Interview
Successful interviews begin with thoughtful preparation. Applicants are encouraged to utilize resources available through their college or university, such as career centers, mock interviews, and professional development workshops. Health Professions Advisors and pre-health offices can also provide valuable guidance, interview strategies, and opportunities to connect with other students preparing for professional school interviews.
Taking advantage of these resources can help you communicate your experiences, goals, and passion for optometry with confidence.
Admission Decisions
The Admissions Committee conducts a comprehensive review of each applicant after all required materials have been received and the interview process has been completed. Admission offers are extended on a rolling basis to the most qualified candidates. In some cases, offers of admission may be contingent upon the successful completion of outstanding requirements.
Accepting an Offer of Admission
Applicants offered admission will have approximately two to three weeks to accept or decline their seat in the incoming class.
To reserve a seat, admitted students must submit a matriculation form and a $1,000 non-refundable matriculation deposit. The deposit may be paid in two installments:
- $500 due upon acceptance of the offer
- $500 due by March 1 to confirm the reserved seat
Of the total deposit, $900 is applied toward tuition. Students should submit their deposit only after making a final decision to attend UIWRSO. Admitted students who choose not to enroll should notify the Office of Admissions as soon as possible.
Final Transcripts
Before the start of classes, matriculating students must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Verified transcripts submitted through OptomCAS may satisfy this requirement; however, final official transcripts showing completed prerequisite coursework and, if applicable, degree conferral must be received before enrollment.
Final, official transcript(s) can be sent to:
UIW Document Receiving
4301 Broadway, CPO #304
San Antonio, Texas 78209
Students can also have transcripts sent directly to us through Parchment, eScrip or National Student Clearinghouse. The transcript must be sent from the institution, either via mail or an electronic service (Email: admissiondocs@uiwtx.edu), in order to be considered official.
UIWRSO is committed to providing a comprehensive four-year educational experience designed to support student success from matriculation through graduation. As a result, UIWRSO does not accept transfer applicants or students seeking advanced standing from another optometry program.
International applications have the option to submit acceptable TOEFL scores if English is not their primary language.
Foreign transcripts are not accepted without an official evaluation from the WES, ECE or other accredited agencies.