OAT Practice Test

The exam is about 4.5 hours long including breaks. You get 4 hours and 10 minutes of actual testing time across seven sections. That breaks down to roughly 50 minutes per section, though some sections are longer than others. Your practice test on our platform reflects this timing, so you can get used to managing your pace.

The OAT tests you on Natural Sciences (biology, organic chemistry, general chemistry, biochemistry, physics), Reading Comprehension, Physics, Quantitative Reasoning, and sections covering your knowledge of optometry principles and clinical scenarios. Most of the emphasis falls on the natural sciences, so if you're weak there, that's where you should focus your prep.

The OAT tests you on Natural Sciences (biology, organic chemistry, general chemistry, biochemistry, physics), Reading Comprehension, Physics, Quantitative Reasoning, and sections covering your knowledge of optometry principles and clinical scenarios. Most of the emphasis falls on the natural sciences, so if you're weak there, that's where you should focus your prep.

Most students take the OAT in the spring or summer before they apply to optometry programs. You can take it as many times as you want, but schools typically see all your scores, so they'll know if you've retaken it. That said, if you improve significantly, most schools will consider your highest score. It's worth taking it seriously the first time rather than planning multiple attempts.

You register through the official OAT testing service website, which operates through the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. You'll need to create an account, choose your test date and location, and pay the registration fee. Make sure you register early since test dates can fill up quickly during peak season, especially at popular testing centers.

Most students spend 2 to 4 months preparing, though it depends on your baseline knowledge. Start by taking a diagnostic practice test to see where you stand, then focus on your weak areas. Use study materials aligned to the actual exam format, take Prephow OAT practice tests, and review explanations carefully. Many students also find study groups or tutors helpful for tough concepts.

Most optometry programs accept OAT scores that are two to three years old, though policies can differ. If you took the exam several years ago, it’s best to check the current requirements of each school you’re applying to, since older scores may need to be retaken.

Scores range from 200 to 400, with 300 representing the national average. Many competitive applicants score at or above 300 on the academic average and in the science sections. Each optometry program sets its own expectations, so a “good” score can vary depending on where you plan to apply.