OAT Write Date for Applications

[Premed3]

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Hello,

I'm a Canadian Student applying to Waterloo Optometry + US Optometry schools next year.

I'm just wondering what the latest date should be to write the OATs? In fact, can anyone tell me when applications are due for optometry schools?

I was planning on writing it in early August, but if it's recommended that Canadians applying to the US finish earlier or if applications must be done by like end of summer or something...then I'll have to write it earlier. Just trying to find out the last possible date.

Thanks.

 

[Rinny]

Each school has different deadlines, but I believe that most schools require applicants to apply by February or March. However, to be competitive you should definitely apply by the end of the fall. Earlier is better.

Your plan to take the OAT at the beginning of August is excellent. That gives you plenty of time to retake it if need be (remember that you must wait 3 months in between testing). If you don't feel prepared though by the beginning of August, it is completely reasonable to take the OAT in September or even October. I completed my applications in October and took the OAT in October as well. However, I still recommend that you take it before then because if you don't do as well as you had hoped, you will not want to wait until January to re-take it. Bottom line: Earlier is better (summer or beginning of the fall) but if you truly are not ready to take it or finish up your application, waiting an extra month or two is definitely okay.

 

[Premed3]

Hey thanks for the reply,

I'm aiming for Waterloo Optometry first, would you still say writing early August is a good choice?

 

[JennieJoy]

Taking it in august is a good idea. Isn't the deadline for Waterloo something ridiculous like september? A girl from Canada who I interviewed with at ICO said Waterloo is ridiculous with their application process.