Pre-Optometry Timeline

This timeline serves as a general guide for the Pre-Optometry track at Florida State University. Individual pathways may vary based on transfer credits, course load, or gap year decisions. Optometry programs are competitive and holistic in their admissions process—strong academics, shadowing, and extracurriculars all matter. For personalized planning, meet regularly with your FSU Pre-health Advisor and major academic advisor via Campus Connect.

 
 

year 1

Courses: General Biology I & II (BSC 2010/2011), General Chemistry I (CHM1045 + lab), College Algebra or Pre-Calculus, English, Psychology or Sociology.

  • Resources:

    • Join FSU Pre-Optometry and pre-health clubs via NoleCentral.

    • Schedule a Pre-health Advising appointment via myFSU Campus Connect to review prerequisite planning and career exploration.

  • Experience:

    • Begin shadowing optometrists in clinical or retail settings.

    • Get involved in service and leadership organizations on campus.

SUMMER 1 – CLINICAL EXPOSURE

  • Gain optometry-related experience through shadowing or employment (e.g., optometric technician).

  • Begin tracking patient-care and observational hours required by most optometry schools.

 

year 2

Courses: Organic Chemistry I & II (CHM2210/2211 + labs), Physics I (PHY 2053C or 2048C), Microbiology (MCB 4403/L), Statistics, Human Anatomy and/or Physiology.

  • Continue shadowing and gaining diverse optometric experience (pediatrics, vision therapy, ocular disease, etc.).

  • Consider research, leadership, or community service roles.

  • Meet with your advisor to ensure you are on track with OptomCAS and school-specific prerequisites.

SUMMER 2 – OAT PREP & EXPERIENCE

  • Study for the OAT (Optometry Admission Test); recommended to take by early fall of Year 3.

  • Continue building clinical and professional experience.

  • Attend info sessions for schools like Nova Southeastern, UAB, or SCCO to compare requirements.

 

year 3

Courses: Physics II (PHY 2054C or 2049C), Biochemistry (BCH 4053), additional upper-level electives in health sciences (e.g., genetics, neuroscience).

  • Take the OAT (preferably by fall).

  • Begin drafting your personal statement and collecting letters of recommendation (typically includes an optometrist, a science professor, and another mentor).

  • Attend OptomCAS and interview workshops through the FSU Pre-health Advising Office.

SUMMER 3 – SUBMIT APPLICATION

  • Submit your OptomCAS application (opens in late June).

  • Continue clinical or research involvement.

  • Prepare for school-specific supplemental applications and interviews.

 

YEAR 4

Courses:
Complete degree requirements and maintain academic performance.

  • Attend optometry school interviews.

  • Finalize all shadowing logs and extracurricular documentation.

  • Meet with your Pre-health Advisor to plan for transition or gap year options.

  • Graduate!

GAP YEAR (OPTIONAL)

  • Use this year to improve academics, gain additional optometry experience, or reapply.

  • Consider working as an optometric assistant or technician to strengthen your application.

  • Meet with your Pre-health Advisor for individualized planning and support.