I believe the purpose of calculating GPA and OAT is to help the schools to determine whether a person is capable of handling the rigors load of optometry school. But it is not a good estimate of ones intelligence, personality, work ethic, etc., thats why schools considers extracurricular experiences in the application and many adopt close file interviews so they can better evaluate a person as a whole without prejudice.
We (Americans) have elected a President with GPA lower than 3.0
. twice, I think the public can accept an optometrist with sub 3.0 undergrad GPA. Also, it is not a smooth ride after one enrolled to the optometry school. There are many exam and practical throughout the program to ensure the students are competent with the knowledge and skill that are required for the profession, and a national board to certify the training. In my opinion, it is easy to find applicants thats smart enough to complete the program, but much harder to find someone with a passion in the field. And as a patient, I care about my health care provider's skill, personality, and passion much more than his/her undergrad GPA.