How to Prepare for the OptomCAS Process

Before you begin the OptomCAS process, there are several ways you can prepare:

• Review Applicant Responsibilities and Code of Conduct
• Review ASCO Functional Standards
• Review the OptomCAS instructions
• Review the admissions requirements for each school or college of optometry that you are interested in applying to determine if you have fulfilled, or are in the process to fulfill, their prerequisite requirements
• Request a personal copy of all your transcripts so you may properly complete the coursework section on the OptomCAS application
• Review the letters of recommendation requirements for each school or college of optometry that you are interested in applying
• Contact your recommenders regarding writing letters of recommendation on your behalf

OptomCAS Application

• Read all OptomCAS instructions carefully and thoroughly
• Create your OptomCAS application account
• Use the OptomCAS Transcript Form to arrange for ALL of your official transcripts to be received by OptomCAS by the application deadline
• Enter ALL your U.S. and Canadian coursework on the application using personal copies of your transcripts (do not enter foreign courses)
• Submit foreign transcripts to the appropriate evaluation agency
• Contact and confirm your Recommenders and complete the Letters of Recommendation section of the application. To avoid SPAM filters, please notify your recommenders that they will receive an email from This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
• Designate your OAT scores when taking the exam to be reviewed by those schools and colleges for which you plan to apply
• Compose your personal essay to be sent to your designated schools and colleges of optometry
• Submit the correct OptomCAS fees by the deadline as payment is required to process your application
• Review your application for accuracy as you cannot edit your application once it is submitted
• Print your completed application for your personal records
• Once coursework is verified, review your GPA breakdown available in the status bar of your application. If you have any questions on your GPA, you must contact customer support immediately.
• As needed, submit a supplemental application and supplemental fee directly to the school or college of optometry by their deadline
• Arrange for your fall transcripts to be sent to OptomCAS as soon as they are available