MCAT for Optometry school?

[Pursuing MD]

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Will any optometry school accept the MCAT as an entrance exam? I got a 21 on the MCAT, and want to apply to an optometry school with it...is this possible? Finally, if I were to apply now to an optometry school, would I be able to attend this Fall 2002? Thanks.

 

[christie]

To answer your questions, no, Optometry schools will not accept the MCAT over the OAT. I would reccomend taking the OAT in October. Since you have already taken the MCAT, the OAT won't be nearly as bad.

I don't think if you applied now, you would be admitted to an Optometry school for this Fall 2002, mainly b/c you haven't taken the OAT. Also, it is highly reccomended to apply early in the application process i.e Sept-Dec 2001 for Fall 2002 entry.

I would suggest to take the OAT this October, and apply to Optometry schools in Sept & October for Fall 2003 entry.

Good Luck

 

[Pursuing MD]

What's the best (or the top 3) optometry schools in the U.S?

 

[christie]

I don't believe there is an official ranking for the 17 Optometry schools. I would guess that UC Berkley is up there though.

 

[cpw]

I really don't think they've ever formally rated OD schools. But, if you go on admission statistics UC Berkeley is the hardest to get into. But, you have to look at what's best for you.. do you want a research strong school? A clinically strong school? etc.. large class size (ICO) vs small (Oklahoma and Pacific)

Look at the factors. You'll definitely have to take the OAT. The next administration is October and then you can apply for admission to the class of 2007.

Good luck and let us know if you have any other questions. Also, make sure you're doing OD school because it's what you REALLY want to do.. not because you don't think you've got a shot at med school. There are some in my class using OD school as a "I didn't get into med school so I'll do this instead" thing and they're NOT happy.

Something to ponder.