Optometry School GPA Calculator
Calculate your prerequisite GPA, science GPA, and OAT competitiveness. Compare to the average accepted optometry student and plan your OptomCAS application.
How Optometry School GPA Requirements Work
Optometry programs evaluate applicants through OptomCAS, the centralized application system. Unlike some professional schools, OptomCAS calculates GPA using all course attempts — grade replacement does not apply. Your science GPA (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) is weighted heavily alongside your OAT score.
The average accepted student across accredited US optometry programs has an overall GPA of 3.56 and a science GPA of 3.47. OAT Academic Average (AA) scores for accepted students typically fall around 320 on the 200–400 scale.
OptomCAS GPA Categories
- Science GPA: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and related lab courses
- Math GPA: Calculus, Statistics, and math-intensive courses
- Non-Science GPA: All other academic coursework
- Overall GPA: Weighted composite of all three categories
How to Use This Calculator
The Simple tier calculates your prerequisite and science GPA and compares them to accepted student averages. Enter each prerequisite course, assign it a category, and the calculator separates your science GPA from your overall GPA automatically. The OAT Integration tab lets you combine your exam score with your GPA for a full competitiveness picture.
Enter your OAT score for each section (200–400 scale):
OAT Sections and Scoring
The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) consists of six scored sections. Each is scored on a 200–400 scale, and the Academic Average (AA) is the mean of five sections (excluding Reading Comprehension, which is reported separately but often still reviewed).
OAT Section Breakdown
- Biology (BIO): Cell biology, genetics, evolution, diversity — average ~318
- General Chemistry (GC): Stoichiometry, equilibrium, thermodynamics — average ~315
- Organic Chemistry (OC): Reactions, mechanisms, nomenclature — average ~310
- Physics (PHY): Optics is emphasized for optometry — average ~318
- Reading Comprehension (RC): Scientific passage analysis — average ~325
- Quantitative Reasoning (QR): Algebra, statistics, word problems — average ~316
Balancing GPA and OAT
A high OAT can partially compensate for a lower GPA, and vice versa — but programs typically require minimums in both. A 3.2 GPA with a 340 OAT is generally more competitive than a 3.7 GPA with a 295 OAT. Aim for both metrics to be at or above the accepted student average before submitting your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA do I need to get into optometry school?▾
The average accepted optometry student has an overall GPA of 3.56 and a science GPA of 3.47. However, competitive programs at UC Berkeley, Ohio State, and Pacific University may look for GPAs closer to 3.6–3.7. Programs with higher acceptance rates may accept applicants with GPAs around 3.2–3.4 when accompanied by a strong OAT score, robust observation hours, and compelling personal statement.
Does OptomCAS use grade replacement or forgiveness?▾
No. OptomCAS calculates GPA using all course attempts, including retakes. If you earned a C in General Chemistry and then retook it for an A, both grades are included in the GPA calculation. This makes it especially important to perform well the first time in science prerequisites. A post-bacc or SMP (Special Master's Program) can demonstrate academic upward trend but cannot erase prior grades from the OptomCAS calculation.
How many observation hours do I need for optometry school?▾
Most programs require a minimum of 40–100 hours, but competitive applicants typically have 100–250 hours. Diversity of settings matters: shadowing in a general practice OD office, a specialty clinic (pediatric, low vision, contact lens), and a hospital-based setting strengthens your application. Programs want to see that you have a genuine understanding of the profession before committing to four years of optometry school.
What is a good OAT score for optometry school?▾
The average Academic Average (AA) for accepted optometry students is approximately 320 on the 200–400 scale. Scoring 330+ puts you above average, which is particularly helpful if your GPA is borderline. The Physics section of the OAT is especially relevant to optometry — optics is a core topic — so strong performance there signals direct relevance to the profession. Most programs have a minimum OAT score around 290–300.
Can I get into optometry school with a 3.2 GPA?▾
Yes, but it requires a strong supporting application. Pair a 3.2 GPA with a 330+ OAT, 200+ observation hours, strong letters of recommendation from practicing ODs, and a compelling personal statement. Focus applications on programs with higher acceptance rates (20–30%) while also applying to a broad list. A recent upward GPA trend — especially strong science grades in the last two years — also helps offset an earlier lower GPA.