New OAT scores

[kdiddy89]

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Hey Everyone,

I know this will be quite a repetitive thread for many people, but I just finished writing the OAT a couple of hours ago and would like to get some opinions and advice. So my unofficial scores were:

QR: 320
RC: 310
Bio: 350
GC: 290
OC: 290
Phy: 280

TS: 300
AA: 310

From my scores, I can already tell that I will probably need to write it again in the future, but what I would like to know is, what are my chances of getting into any schools, IF I DON'T write the OAT again. My current gpa is roughly a 3.0. I'm looking to apply this next cycle in July, or whenever it is that it opens up. I'm going to be away in Africa from May till roughly the end of July and I would like to apply AS SOON AS i get back.

Would it be smarter to just apply without writing the OAT again and see if I could get it? or would it be better when I apply to mention in my application that I will be writing the OAT sometime soon? that way schools can put my application on hold or something, with the hope of getting in if I do better 2nd time around. I just really want to take advantage of rolling admissions when the time comes. I hope that makes sense how I explained it.

Thanks

 

[MrEyes10]

If you are applying next cycle, I would not worry about taking it again. If you send in your app early you should have no problem getting interviews. Apply with them and if nothing comes for you by November, then retake them. If you apply early though, again, you should be okay. Good luck!

 

[sbopt87]

Which school are you planning on applying to?

 

[kdiddy89]

Which school are you planning on applying to?

I just have a passion for the field of optometry. I'm not too picky as to where I want to go to school as long as I can work my way into a future career. But if I DID have a choice, I would definitely be interested in 1) Midwestern, 2) Pacific, 3) SUNY, 4) Nova and 5) MCPHS....to name my top choice schools anyway.....I've done lots of research on schools and even ICO and SCO seem like great schools. How well do I need to score on the OAT for these schools?

Also, thanks MrEyes for the advice!

 

[sbopt87]

only chance at this point is probably mcphs.

I have similar scores but i applied already and got an interview. I think it is too late though even for midwestern and possibly mcphs.

You can always try applying though.

Midwesten and MCPHS are your best chances for now, as well as IUAPR, and RSO.

 

[kdiddy89]

only chance at this point is probably mcphs.

I have similar scores but i applied already and got an interview. I think it is too late though even for midwestern and possibly mcphs.

You can always try applying though.

Midwesten and MCPHS are your best chances for now, as well as IUAPR, and RSO.

I actually won't be applying this cycle. I'm just wondering for when the next cycle comes in July 🙂

 

[xshinigami]

Since you don't leave for Africa until May...can't you just study for the next three months and retake it in April? That way your scores will be higher and you'll have a solid chance for the upcoming cycle.

 

[MrEyes10]

No problem. Look at the list of acceptances for 2017. There are a lot of people getting in to schools with the scores you currently have, some a little worse. The only one you may want to retake for is SUNY. If you are not picky about schools, you could save the 225ish dollars you would spend to retake it and use it for some of the travel expenses to some of your interviews! Like I said, apply early. If you don't hear back by October or November, then consider a retake. I am starting at SCO in the fall so message me if you have any questions.

 

[kdiddy89]

Since you don't leave for Africa until May...can't you just study for the next three months and retake it in April? That way your scores will be higher and you'll have a solid chance for the upcoming cycle.

I have definitely been considering retaking for sure. I currently have a full course load of 5 classes this semester, so finding time to set aside will be difficult, considering I work part time as well. But, I will for sure be thinking about that. Thanks!

And thanks MrEyes10, I'll make sure to let you know if there's anything else 🙂

P.S. I was also thinking that if I don't write it in May, would it be smart to apply right when i get home in July or August, and when I apply to mention to all schools that I will be retaking the OAT in say like August or September, that way each school can decide whether or not to extend an interview or to put my application on hold?