FoxExams
USA
Optometry Admission Test (OAT)
600 questions
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About this exam
The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is a standardized admissions exam for people applying to optometry schools in the United States and Canada. It assesses academic preparation relevant to optometry study; schools consider OAT results alongside other parts of an application, such as college grades, prerequisite coursework, and interviews or experience where required. Applicants should check each school’s admissions requirements as well as the current American Dental Association (ADA) OAT information, since eligibility and application expectations can vary by program and year.
The OAT is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions in four sections: Survey of the Natural Sciences, Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning. The natural sciences section covers biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry. Biology review can include cell structure and function, genetics and molecular biology, evolution and ecology, and organismal diversity and classification. Preparing well means balancing content review with timed problem-solving, then analyzing errors to find gaps in knowledge, pacing, or question interpretation.
How to prepare for the OAT
- Review the full science scope, giving biology dedicated attention to cells, genetics and molecular biology, evolution and ecology, and organismal diversity, alongside chemistry and physics.
- Use timed practice across all four sections, then review every missed or guessed question and track whether the cause was a content gap, calculation error, or pacing issue.
- Use the current ADA OAT information and preparation materials to confirm the exam format and requirements; also check each optometry school’s admissions guidance for its prerequisites and application expectations.
FAQ
Who takes the Optometry Admission Test?
The OAT is taken by prospective applicants to optometry schools in the United States and Canada. Check the ADA’s current eligibility information and the requirements of each school you plan to apply to.
What sections are on the OAT?
The computer-based exam has four multiple-choice sections: Survey of the Natural Sciences, Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning. The natural sciences section includes biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry.
What subjects should I study for the OAT?
Study biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. For biology, review topics such as cell structure and function, genetics and molecular biology, evolution and ecology, and organismal diversity. Use the current ADA materials to guide your review.