Overview
OptomCAS is a service of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and is administered by Liaison International (LI), an education information technology company located in Watertown, MA.
OptomCAS allows optometry applicants to use a single web-based application and one set of materials to apply to multiple schools and colleges of optometry. Applicants who apply through OptomCAS submit a completed web-based application comprised of biographical data, colleges and universities attended, academic course history, recommendations, work experience, extracurricular activities, honors, and a personal essay. It is the applicant’s responsibility to read and follow specific instructions for OptomCAS and the schools and colleges of optometry. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY EARLY.
Applicants may start and submit the OptomCAS application as soon as it is available. Application deadlines will vary for each school or college of optometry. Information on application deadlines can be found at Deadlines and Other Information.
Role of OptomCAS
The purpose of OptomCAS is to facilitate the optometry admissions process for applicants and schools and colleges of optometry. OptomCAS will not determine whether an applicant has met the optometry school or college requirements or is eligible for admission.
OptomCAS Processing Overview
OptomCAS will consider an application ready for verification once the following items are received:
- Complete OptomCAS application
- Official transcripts from every college and university attended
- Correct OptomCAS application fee
- OptomCAS will allow up to four recommendations. The recommendations are not required for verification and will be forwarded to the designated schools and colleges of optometry once they are received at OptomCAS.
Verification
Verification will begin once an application is deemed complete by OptomCAS. Verification includes checking the accuracy of the application materials, comparing original transcripts to the self-reported course information on the application, calculating numerous OptomCAS GPAs, and submitting the verified application file to the applicant’s designated schools and colleges.
Role of Schools and Colleges of Optometry
Optometry schools and colleges will determine whether an applicant is eligible for admission and will notify applicants directly regarding all admission decisions. Admission policies and prerequisites for each school and college of optometry will vary.
Supplemental Materials
Optometry schools and colleges may also require a supplemental application. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check the requirements for each school and college of optometry to make sure all requirements have been fulfilled. Failure to submit all required OptomCAS and supplemental materials by the deadline of the school or college may jeopardize an applicant’s eligibility for admission consideration.
