Pre-Optometry
Welcome to pre-optometry! We are excited that you have your sights set on becoming an optometrist. You have a long road ahead of you but we are here to help. We will provide information and support as you take the pre-requisite courses up until you start the application and testing process.
- Most optometry schools require the following courses:
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General Chemistry I and II and labs
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Organic Chemistry I and II and labs
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General Biology I and II and labs
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At least one upper level biology course
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Physics I and II and labs (either alg/trig based or calculus based)
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Microbiology
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Calculus I
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Introduction to Psychology
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Introduction to Statistics
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English Composition I and II
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- Some schools require other science, math and and/or behavioral sciences. It is important that you research the requirements for those schools in which you are interested. Your pre-health advisor can help you with this research.
- Specific requirements for some area schools can be found at the following links:
There are 22 schools and colleges of optometry in the United States and Puerto Rico.
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International students may be required to demonstrate English language proficiency as a condition of their admission.
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In order to receive financial aid students must be a permanent resident or citizen of the U.S. Many optometry schools, that do accept foreign applicants, require that students prove the ability to finance all 4 years of optometry school prior to matriculation.
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If undergraduate courses are taken at a college or university outside of Canada or the U.S., student is responsible for getting their course work verified by a credentialing evaluation service.