Optometry in Canada

Optometry Program

·         Optometry programs are between 4 and 5 years

·         Cost of studying in Canada is approx. $60,000-$70,000

·         Cost of studying in the United States is approx. $175,000-$200,000

·         Upon completion must satisfy provincial board requirements to be licensed in your province of choice

Optometry Schools

·         There are only two schools in Canada that offer OD programs

o   University of Waterloo (English program)

o   Université de Montreal (French Program)

·         There are 20 schools in the United States that offer OD programs recognized in Canada, for information go to the link below    

o   http://opto.ca/becoming-a-doctor-of-optometry

 General Prerequisites

·         Academic requirements

o   Complete 3 or more years in a Bsc (full course load)

o   GPA minimums for Canada must be at least 75%

o   Take first year courses with labs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math

o   Additional courses may be required; English, Psychology, Second year sciences

o   Optometry Admissions Test

·         Non-Academic Requirements

o   Autobiographical Sketch

o   Confidential Assessment Forms or Reference Letters

o   Volunteer and Work experience

o   Interview!

Optometry Admissions Test (OAT)

·         This exam is used to measure your critical thinking and overall knowledge

·         Consists of four sections: Survey of Natural Sciences, Reading Comprehension, Physics Test and Quantitative Reasoning Test

·         This exam is around 5 hours long and is all multiple choice

·         Fee to write is $270

 Want Additional Information? Head to www.opted.org