Question on Applying Before Taking the OAT

[ArkansasHog]

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I have a low gpa (around 3.25) and am really banking on getting a very good OAT score to make my application competitive. I am scheduled to take the OAT October 5th. I was wondering if it was a better idea to wait until I take the OAT to submit my application on optomCAS, or to go ahead and submit it and have the schools receive the OAT scores after I take the test. Is there any difference?

 

[sbui102]

I think submitting early is never a bad idea, with or without your OAT. Some schools probably won't contact you until they receive the scores, but you never know. Do you mind me asking what schools you're applying to? I have around the same GPA (3.27) and my OAT is pretty low (310; took it August 2012)..I plan on submitting my application on Tuesday, once my summer grades are posted. I am only applying to UHCO and UIWRSO because out-of-state is too expensive for me.

I think we'll be fine, we just have to apply early and keep hanging on 😀

 

[browneyes22]

I think both of you will be fine. I would say schools like SUNY or berkeley will be more of a challenge to get into.
I would say just focus on performing the best you can and study study study.

 

[PinkCupcake]

You can apply early without OAT, but be aware that many schools will wait for those scores before they issue an interview invitation. The only school I applied to that gave me an interview without my OAT was ICO (this may not be typical for everyone).

 

[ArkansasHog]

I think submitting early is never a bad idea, with or without your OAT. Some schools probably won't contact you until they receive the scores, but you never know. Do you mind me asking what schools you're applying to? I have around the same GPA (3.27) and my OAT is pretty low (310; took it August 2012)..I plan on submitting my application on Tuesday, once my summer grades are posted. I am only applying to UHCO and UIWRSO because out-of-state is too expensive for me.

I think we'll be fine, we just have to apply early and keep hanging on 😀

I am applying to NOVA, UICW, SCO, and NSU. I may also apply to some of the New England schools if my dad accepts a position in New Jersey this month. I will take anywhere I can get!