How to Apply

Completed applications with all required documentation should be submitted between August 1 through February 1 preceding the fall semester of expected entrance. The following credentials must be submitted with UHCO's application:

  1. OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS of all college work from each institution attended.
  2. OPTOMETRY ADMISSIONS TEST (OAT)
    For more information on the OAT, contact the Office of Student Affairs and Admissions or write:

    Optometry Admission Testing Program
    211 East Chicago Avenue
    Chicago , Illinois 60611
    312.440.2693
    http://www.opted.org
  3. LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION:
    Three (3) academic letters of recommendation from undergraduate faculty members familiar with the applicant's work OR One (1) pre-health professions committee letter of recommendation.

    Letters must be written on official college or university stationary and accompany a Request for Confidential Recommendation form. Additional letters of recommendation (optional) from other individuals familiar with the applicant may also be submitted. All letters must be mailed by the originator directly to UHCO.
  4. APPLICATION FEE(S):
    A $50.00 non-refundable fee paid by check/money order or by credit card online.
    International Applicants: $75.00 non-refundable fee paid by check/money order or by credit card online.

    International Applicants must also include an additional $75 non-refundable fee made out to the University of Houston.

    Applicants will be considered for admission once all supporting credentials have been received. A $500 non-refundable deposit will be required upon acceptance into the Doctor of Optometry Program.

    All fees are to be in U.S. Funds
  5. APPLICATION FORMS:
    Admission Instructions
    Letters of Recommendation
  6. APPLICATION SUBMISSION
    Apply online here


Selection Criteria

The Admissions Committee uses the following criteria in determining an applicants academic and personal qualifications for admission to the college:

  • Undergraduate academic record
  • Evidence of ability to handle a course load of 18-20 semester credit hours
  • Evaluation of qualities such as leadership, motivation, social awareness, well-roundedness and knowledge of profession
  • Applicant's service to his or her community and college, work experience and interpersonal skills
  • Written and oral communication skills
  • Evidence received through letters of recommendation validating academic ability and achievement as well as personal qualities such as self-confidence, initiative and ability to work with others.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting Alicia Bailey at abailey@optometry.uh.edu or (713) 743-2040.

Please send all application materials to:
The Office of Student Affairs & Admissions
College of Optometry
University of Houston
505 JDA, Rm 2171
4901 Calhoun Rd
Houston, TX 77204-2020