OAT Exam – Optometry Admission Test Guide 2025

Optometry Admissions Test (OAT), is a standardized test conducted by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) for candidates seeking admission into optometry school.

The OAT consists of four sections:

• Survey of Natural Sciences: 90 minutes
• Physics Test: 50 minutes
• Reading Comprehension Test: 50 minutes
• Quantitative Reasoning Test: 45 minutes

OAT Test - Survey of the Natural Sciences Section

This section includes biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry including:

• Biology: Cell and Molecular Biology
• Diversity of Life: Biological Organization and Relationship of Major Taxa
• Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology: Structure and function of Systems, Developmental Biology, Genetics, Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior
• General Chemistry: Stoichiometry and General Concepts, Gases, Liquids and Solids, Solutions, Acids and Bases, Chemical Equilibria, Thermodynamics and Thermochemistry, Chemical Kinetics, Oxidation-Reduction Reactions, Atomic and Molecular Structure, Periodic Properties, Nuclear Reactions, Laboratory,
• Organic Chemistry: Mechanism, Structure, and Stability of Intermediates), Chemical and Physical Properties of Molecules and Organic Analysis, Stereochemistry, Nomenclature, Individual Reactions of the Major Functional Groups and Combinations of Reactions to Synthesize Compounds
• Acid-Base Chemistry, Aromatics and Bonding.

OAT Test - Physics Section

This section covers subjects including:

• Units and vectors, linear kinematics, statics, dynamics, rotational motion, energy and momentum, simple harmonic motion, waves, fluid statics, thermal energy and thermodynamics, electrostatics, D.C. circuits, magnetism, optics, and modern physics.

OAT Test - Reading Comprehension Section

This section requires reading of passages and the ability to organize, analyze, comprehend, and apply the information.

OAT Test - Quantitative Reasoning Section

This section measures the ability to perform math related calculations using formulas, word problems, conversions, probabilities, and other topics including:

• Mathematical Problems – including algebra (equations and expressions, inequalities, exponential notation and logarithms, absolute value, ratios and proportions and graphical analysis) and numerical calculations (fractions and decimals, percentages, approximations, and scientific notation)
• Probability and Statistics
• Geometry
• Trigonometry, and numerical reasoning problems.

Examinees will have a total of 275 to 300 minutes to complete the tutorial, four tests in the OAT battery, post test survey, and have the option for a 15-minute break after completing the second test in the battery.

If an examinee chooses to take the break, the testing session will resume automatically after 15 minutes have elapsed.

The Optometry Admissions Test is administered twice a year around October and February.

Deadlines for applications are usually 6 weeks before the actual test date with late applications accepted about a month before the actual OAT test.

There is no limit on the number of times allowed to take the test but only the four most recent scores and total times taken are reported to optometry schools of choice.

The current basic fee for registration for the Optometry Admissions Test is $130 dollars and a charge of $10 dollars per additional school you want the test results sent to after the first five free ones.

It is very helpful for applicants to score well on the Optometry Admissions Test.

All optometry schools use the test score as a factor to some degree or another.

Although it is not the only factor, a high score will definitely increase chances of acceptance.

Example OAT Questions

1. Survey of the Natural Sciences

Biology

Which organelle is responsible for protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells?

a) Ribosome
b) Mitochondrion
c) Golgi apparatus
d) Lysosome

The correct answer is: a) Ribosome

Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis. They can be free in the cytoplasm or bound to the rough endoplasmic reticulum.

General Chemistry

At STP (Standard Temperature and Pressure), what is the volume of 2.0 moles of an ideal gas?

a) 11.2 L
b) 22.4 L
c) 44.8 L
d) 2.0 L

The correct answer is: c) 44.8 L

One mole of an ideal gas at STP occupies 22.4 L. Therefore, 2 moles occupy 2 × 22.4 = 44.8 L.

2. Physics

A 4 kg object is accelerated at 3 m/s². What net force is acting on it?

a) 7 N
b) 12 N
c) 8 N
d) 12 N

The correct answer is: b) 12 N

Using Newton’s second law, F = ma = 4 × 3 = 12 N.

A light ray passes from air (n = 1.0) into water (n = 1.33) with an incidence angle of 45°.

What is the approximate angle of refraction?

a) 32°
b) 45°
c) 60°
d) 75°

The correct answer is: a) 32°
Snell’s law: n₁sinθ₁ = n₂sinθ₂ → 1.0 × sin(45°) = 1.33 × sinθ₂ → 0.707 = 1.33 × sinθ₂ → sinθ₂ ≈ 0.531 → θ₂ ≈ 32°.

3. Reading Comprehension

Passage (excerpt):

“Advances in optometry have shown that regular eye exams can reveal early signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. This highlights the importance of optometrists not only in correcting vision but also in supporting overall healthcare.”

Question 1: According to the passage, why are regular eye exams important?

a) They only correct vision problems.
b) They can reveal early signs of systemic diseases.
c) They eliminate the need for general healthcare.
d) They are less important than other medical check-ups.

The correct answer is: b) They can reveal early signs of systemic diseases

The passage specifically notes that eye exams may reveal early signs of diabetes and hypertension.

Question 2: What is the broader role of optometrists suggested in the passage?

a) Limiting their work to prescribing glasses.
b) Reducing the need for other specialists.
c) Contributing to overall healthcare.
d) Replacing general practitioners.

The correct answer is: c) Contributing to overall healthcare

The text emphasizes optometry’s contribution to wider health beyond just vision correction.

4. Quantitative Reasoning

If a solution requires diluting 50 mL of a stock solution to make a total volume of 200 mL, what is the dilution factor?

a) 2
b) 3
c) 4
d) 5

The correct answer is: c) 4

Dilution factor = final volume ÷ initial volume = 200 ÷ 50 = 4.

A patient spends $120 on glasses after receiving a 20% discount.

What was the original price?

a) $140
b) $144
c) $150
d) $160

The correct answer is: c) $150

If $120 is 80% of the original cost, then original = 120 ÷ 0.8 = $150.

How to Prepare for the OAT

The OAT is a broad and challenging exam that requires a solid foundation in science, mathematics and critical thinking. Good preparation will not only improve your score but also help build the academic skills you’ll need in optometry school.

1. Know the Structure of the Test

Start by familiarising yourself with the four sections of the exam: Survey of the Natural Sciences, Physics, Reading Comprehension and Quantitative Reasoning. Knowing the format, timing and types of questions will help you manage your time more effectively on test day.

2. Review Core Scientific Concepts

The largest part of the OAT is the natural sciences section, so spend extra time on biology, general chemistry and organic chemistry. Make sure you understand cell biology, genetics, physiology, reaction mechanisms and laboratory principles. Use textbooks, review notes and reputable online resources.

3. Practise Physics Fundamentals

Physics makes up a significant portion of the exam. Focus on mechanics, optics, waves and electricity — areas particularly relevant to vision science. Work through practice problems until you are confident applying formulas quickly and accurately.

4. Strengthen Reading Comprehension Skills

You will need to extract key information, identify main arguments and evaluate evidence from science-based passages. The best way to prepare is to read scientific articles regularly and practise summarising them. Timed practice passages are especially useful.

5. Build Quantitative Reasoning Ability

Review algebra, geometry, trigonometry, probability, statistics and basic calculus. Practice with word problems and numerical reasoning exercises, as these often appear in applied, real-world contexts. Pay attention to solving problems quickly, as time can run short in this section.

6. Take Full-Length Practice Tests

Simulate real exam conditions by sitting full-length practice tests. This will build stamina, improve pacing and highlight areas where you need more review. Analyse your mistakes carefully to strengthen weak points.

7. Prepare Logistically and Physically

Book your test early to secure a convenient time. In the weeks before, ensure you get enough rest, eat well and plan your travel to the test centre. Going into the exam calm and focused will make a significant difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times can I take the OAT?

There is no lifetime limit on the number of times you can sit the OAT. However, only your four most recent scores and the total number of attempts will be reported to optometry schools, so it’s important to prepare thoroughly for each sitting.

How is the OAT scored?

Each section is scored on a scale from 200 to 400, with 300 typically considered an average score. Schools may look at your Academic Average (the average of all four sections) as well as individual section scores.

How long does the OAT take?

The full exam, including tutorial, four test sections, a survey and an optional 15-minute break, lasts between 4.5 and 5 hours. The test itself is around 3 hours and 45 minutes.

When is the OAT offered?

The OAT is computer-based and is offered year-round at Prometric testing centres across the US and Canada. You can register at a time that suits you, though it’s best to book early to secure your preferred date.

What is a good score on the OAT?

A competitive score depends on the optometry schools you are applying to. Generally, scores above 320 are considered strong, though admissions committees will also weigh your GPA, recommendation letters and overall application.

Final Thoughts

The Optometry Admission Test is a demanding exam that plays an important role in the admissions process for optometry schools. It assesses not only your grasp of the sciences but also your ability to apply knowledge, reason quantitatively and interpret complex information under time pressure.

Strong preparation is the key to success. By building a solid understanding of biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics — while also practising reading comprehension and test-taking strategies — you can approach the OAT with confidence. Remember that your score is just one part of your overall application, but performing well will significantly strengthen your chances of admission.