If you are preparing to take the OAT assessment, you may want to consider taking an OAT course offered by Varsity Tutors. The OAT is an important exam for assessing your potential success in an optometry education program. If you've ever spent time online searching for things like "OAT tutoring near me", then you probably already know how effective it can be to get OAT test prep help from an expert instructor. Being properly prepared through OAT preparation can be an important factor in helping you to feel more confident on exam day. When you feel confident in your skills, you can be less nervous and recall learned material more easily. Contact Varsity Tutors today to get more information on the benefits of OAT prep.
Why Take the OAT Examination?
Students across the country decide to take the OAT when they make the decision to attend optometry school. In fact, taking this exam is a required part of the admissions process at each of the 20 optometry schools you can attend in the United States and Puerto Rico. Beyond that, a solid score on the OAT could make you a more attractive candidate for admission at the schools you ultimately apply to.
Additionally, when you earn a strong OAT score, you may have the potential to earn more scholarship money. Optometry school can be very expensive so you should make every effort you can to take advantage of the scholarship opportunities that are available to optometry school candidates. Of course, getting a strong score on the OAT is something that is easier said than done. OAT test prep from Varsity Tutors may be the missing piece to your OAT test preparation plan. You can learn more about the benefits of OAT test prep and the exam itself by continuing to read below.
OAT Eligibility Requirements
There aren't many requirements that you need to satisfy in order to become eligible to take the OAT. The test is given by the Association of Schools and College of Optometry, or ASCO. They do recommend that potential test takers wait to take the OAT exam until they've completed at least two years of their college education. This is because doing well on the OAT requires a solid understanding of scientific subjects like biology, physics, and chemistry.
You'll also want to make sure that you sign up for the OAT exam slot of your preference well in advance of your optometry school admissions cycle. This ensures that you get your test score back with enough time to spare so that you can still apply to optometry schools early in the admissions cycle. Applying early to these schools is a good idea because of the competitive nature of their admissions process.
Taking the OAT exam early also gives you the opportunity to retake the test if you aren't happy with your initial score. If you do decide to retake your exam, then you'll want to keep a few things in mind. First, you'll have to wait at least 90 days from the date you took your last OAT test before you become eligible to take the exam again. Similarly, candidates who have already taken the exam three times must apply in writing to take the OAT test another time. If you find yourself in this scenario, then you'll also only be allowed to take the OAT one time per 12 month cycle.
These restrictions for retaking the OAT exam were instituted to ensure that students who retake the exam have the opportunity to study the material that gave them trouble when they took the exam last time. However, it can be difficult to create a strong OAT test preparation plan without any guidance. You may want to contact Varsity Tutors and inquire about OAT test prep assistance if you're looking for extra help with your study sessions.
Breaking Down the OAT Exam
The Optometry admission exam comprises four tests that are timed as detailed in the chart below. OAT tutors can work with you during OAT test prep to improve your test-taking skills:
Survey of Natural Sciences |
90 Minutes |
Reading Comprehension Test |
50 Minutes |
Physics Test |
50 Minutes |
Quantitative Reasoning Test |
45 Minutes |
The OAT exam was designed to assess how prepared candidates for optometry school are to continue with their studies at a higher academic level. To that end, the exam focuses on the skills that you'll need to have in order to find success in optometry school as well as when working as a practicing optometrist. Specifically, you'll be asked to answer a lot of questions focusing on scientific knowledge and analytical ability. Below, you'll find a more detailed look at each section on the OAT.
The test's first section, Survey of Natural Sciences, focuses on the topics of chemistry and biology. You'll be asked to answer a total of 100 multiple-choice questions within the section's 90 minute time limit. This means that you'll need to work quickly in order to answer everything without running into time issues. If you'd like some help with being able to work through this section quickly, then you can easily get it with OAT test prep assistance from Varsity Tutors.
The next test section is called Reading Comprehension. As its name suggests, this section focuses on your ability to understand and analyze dense written materials. You'll be asked to answer 50 multiple-choice questions that are based on a series of complex written passages. Again, if you need help developing your reading comprehension skills, you can get it through OAT test prep help.
Next, the third section of the exam focuses exclusively on physics. The following bullet list details some of the test topics that you will encounter. Your tutor can review these topics and others with you during OAT tutoring to gauge your skill level.
- Units and Vectors
- Statics
- Dynamics
- Rotational Motion
- Algebra
- Statistics
- Data Analysis
- Reading passages requiring comprehension and analysis
Finally, the last section of the OAT exam is called Quantitative Reasoning. This test section focuses on your analytical and mathematical abilities. To perform well on this part of the exam, you'll need a strong understanding of a range of math topics, including advanced trigonometry.
There are clearly a lot of different skills that you'll need to be successful when taking the OAT exam. Studying all of this material can be difficult to do alone. Why not let Varsity Tutors help you study with an in-depth OAT test prep plan? To get OAT test prep help, you don't have to search online for things like "OAT tutoring near me". Instead, simply contact an educational director today to learn more about each OAT prep option that is available to choose from.
Finding the Best OAT Prep Option For Your Needs
When you sign up for OAT prep assistance with Varsity Tutors, there are a few different OAT prep options that you can choose from. When selecting the OAT prep choice that makes the most sense for you, it's a good idea to think about how the OAT prep option fits with your learning style and test goals. Below, you'll get a more detailed look at each type of OAT prep that is offered by Varsity Tutors.
The first OAT prep option you may be interested in is OAT tutoring. This form of OAT test preparation is conducted in a one-on-one learning environment that is free of distractions. OAT prep with OAT tutors gives you the chance to work with a qualified tutor who can answer any questions you have about the material. Take full advantage of the time you spend with your tutor in the OAT classes to openly communicate about the material and any weak areas you have.
During an OAT prep session, the tutor can give you a baseline assessment to clearly define areas where you're excelling and areas where you need work. This assessment is an invaluable tool in OAT courses because it enables the tutor to create a customized plan for tutoring. OAT tutors can set benchmarks to measure progress during the OAT test prep.
Alternatively, you may also be interested in taking a small group OAT class. Taking an OAT class that has this format may be the right option for you if you've previously enjoyed learning in the classroom environment. Your OAT classes will be taught by an expert on the exam who knows what it takes to perform well on it. OAT classes even replicate some aspects of private OAT tutoring in that they offer the opportunity to work with your OAT preparation instructor in a one-on-one environment if you need extra help with a challenging topic. If you think this test preparation option is the best fit for you, then you don't need to search online for "OAT classes near me" to get started. Instead, you can just contact an educational director at Varsity Tutors today if you're ready to get started.
You can benefit from OAT test prep if you get nervous when taking standardized tests. Your tutor can work with you to share relaxation techniques that can help you relax on the exam day. OAT tutors can help you hone your study skills so you are able to feel confident when studying, which can improve recall on test day. There are no magic methods here, but the OAT preparation instructor can show you the best way to relax when you feel pressured.
Time management is an important factor when taking a timed test. You need to make sure that you spend the right amount of time on each question and section. That is another reason why OAT test preparation is so invaluable. The tutor can give you timed practice tests so you both can see how you would perform on exam day. After completing practice tests, the tutor can gauge your progress and continually reevaluate the structure of the tutoring.
Another benefit you can receive from the OAT courses you ultimately sign up for is flexibility. When you sign up to take OAT courses, we make every effort to connect you with an experienced educator who can meet your scheduling needs. You'll also be able to engage in our Live Learning Platform to participate in online tutoring. The flexibility that you'll find through OAT courses ensures that you can get the test preparation help that you've been searching for without having to worry about how it will impact the rest of your life.
Understanding OAT Score
The OAT is scored on a scale ranging from 200 to 400. Depending on the test year, a score of 300 is typically the median. To put this in perspective, if you earned a score of 350 while taking your exam, then you would be at about the 90th percentile. If you're not familiar with how the percentile system works, this simply means that a score of 350 would be better than about 90% of the other individuals who took the same exam you did.
As touched on previously, the admissions process at optometry schools is notoriously competitive. With only 20 schools to choose from, there just aren't enough slots for all of the students who want to attend optometry school to get accepted. This is why getting a strong OAT score is so important. You want to put your best foot forward when applying to these schools. To that end, taking an OAT course with Varsity Tutors could be the right way for you to get more out of your study sessions.
Getting Started With Your Own Ideal OAT Course
If you plan on taking the OAT soon, then signing up for OAT courses could help you increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your test preparation plan. To get started, you don't have to look online for "OAT courses near me". Instead, just get in touch with an educational director at Varsity Tutors to learn more about the test preparation options that you can choose from. You can increase your confidence level in your knowledge of the material covered on the OAT exam by completing OAT prep with the help of Varsity Tutors. Our Educational Directors are ready to discuss all of the benefits of OAT test prep with you. Get started with an OAT class today.
Raghavendra: OAT test prep instructor
...comes from nurturing creativity. Both as an instructor and a student I have tried to come up with different ways to facilitate free thinking and exploration of fundamental concepts. Throughout my life, I have tried to convince people that math is fun and something that can be appreciated if looked at appropriately. I graduated from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign in December 2021 with a major in Math and minor in computer science. I...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE
- PCAT
- Social Sciences
- +106 subjects
Alexandra: OAT test prep instructor
...hundreds of other Texans with a private, four-year, full-ride scholarship. As a Terry Scholar, I am well-versed in all subjects and have taken on the role of mentor to many of the incoming freshmen. I have spent most of my free time in college as a nanny and tutor to families around the DFW area. I have experience with all age groups and there is nothing that intimidates me! While I tutor a broad range...
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- MCAT
- DAT
- +308 subjects
Michael: OAT test prep instructor
...creating/coaching a study program so when test time comes, you are confident and prepared! Most importantly, I want students to know that with me, don't be afraid to make mistakes! Getting the answer wrong or even a bad grade is such a great tool for learning if you stay engaged and you know it does not define your abilities nor intelligence! Let's work together! I believe learning is much more effective, memorable, and productive when...
Education & Certification
- Furman University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Covenant Theological Seminary - Master of Divinity, Theology
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- PCAT
- +114 subjects
Arianna: OAT test prep instructor
...am currently working on my med and business endeavors. I have not only an interest, but a motivation to help others. I have helped students get into Ivy League schools as well as other top universities across the country with top scholarships. I tutor in all subjects from French to Essay Writing and Algebra to Chemistry! I want my students and tutees to see the value in themselves and know that they can accomplish anything...
Education & Certification
- Dartmouth College - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- MCAT
- ISEE-Middle Level Writing
- +437 subjects
Mariangela: OAT test prep instructor
...Literature Secondary Education and a Master's degree in Education with a specialization in ESL from Temple University's Graduate College of Education. I have taught full-time for over six years and worked with a variety of students from over 65 different countries throughout my career thus far. In addition to English, I also speak German and Greek fluently and have lived in both Germany and Greece. I love traveling and experiencing different cultures, learning, reading, and...
Education & Certification
- Temple University - Bachelor of Science, English
- Temple University Graduate College of Education - Master of Science, Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- LSAT
- GRE
- PCAT
- +86 subjects
Amraha: OAT test prep instructor
...Neonatology! I have always grown up in an environment that appreciates and encourages learning, and I love helping others achieve their academic goals! I have a lot of experience with AP classes, and I took over 15 courses and received college credit for ALL of them! I also have a lot of experience with tutoring students in elementary school, and middle school. I am able to adapt to all learning styles, and would love to...
Education & Certification
- The Ohio State University - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
- The Ohio State University - Master of Science, Pharmacology
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- MCAT
- GRE
- +285 subjects
Rebecca: OAT test prep instructor
...Reading Education (which came with a Reading/Writing Specialist endorsement), and an EdS in Educational Administration and Instructional Supervision. I also have a Rank 1 in my field and hold consultant endorsements in both English and reading. I have been a high-school English teacher for 20 years, 17 of those years at the top-ranked public high school in my state. Throughout those years, I have taught many programs for elementary and middle-school students. I also have...
Education & Certification
- University of Louisville - Bachelor in Arts, English
- University of Louisville - Masters in Education, Reading Teacher Education
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- DAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- +109 subjects
Hasan: OAT test prep instructor
...physics at the Indiana Academy for Science, Math, and Humanities. I am greatly enjoying teaching to the gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors for the last 26 years. I have taught both AP Physics, Conceptual Physics, Modern Physics, and Calculus courses at the Academy and at the University level. I have also been tutoring online and in person for many years helping scores of students in various physics, math courses , SAT, and...
Education & Certification
- University of Bombay - Bachelor of Science, Physics
- University of Toledo - Master of Science, Atomic and Molecular Physics
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- Other
- Algebra
- +38 subjects
Amina: OAT test prep instructor
...New York. Besides my studies, I am very passionate towards helping others in school in any way I can. I am here to help you. I will do my utmost best guiding you to succeed in academia through my tutoring methods. On top of this, I am very friendly! I enjoy reading, questioning, thinking, and exploring the world. I have been to Europe twice and went to summer school there to study German Language. Something...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Hunter College - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE
- GMAT
- LSAT
- +175 subjects
Lexous: OAT test prep instructor
...experience and it also taught me a lot. I also have a younger sister who is 14 years old whom I help with homework often. My absolute favorite subject since I was a child is English (reading and writing). I fell in love with books as a child and the love still exists as an adult. I am a yoga instructor in between time and I also own an online fashion boutique. You can catch...
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- DAT
- LSAT
- +56 subjects
Bin Zhao: OAT test prep instructor
...have A's on every Japanese language class in Baruch. When I immigrated to the US, I became interested in Japanese culture where there was Japanese television on Fridays. When those programming licensing ended, I turned to the internet. In the second semester in college, I took the opportunity to enroll in the first Elementary Japanese class. I was able to get an A in the class. I have taken all the required classes and have become...
Education & Certification
- CUNY Bernard M Baruch College - Bachelor in Business Administration, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- LSAT
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- +225 subjects
Noble: OAT test prep instructor
...in private settings as i have discovered many different ways to boost the MCAT scores and many of my students received great results from my tutoring. I found out that most MCAT students struggle with the MCAT due to lack of study skills and discipline; therefore, i write a daily and weekly schedule for my students and i keep my eyes on their progress. in the past few years , i have students accepting in...
Education & Certification
- Yeshiva University - Bachelors, Biochemistry
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Masters, Biotechnology
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- MCAT
- MCAT Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
- +27 subjects
Jeremy: OAT test prep instructor
I am a newly graduated Optometrist. I graduated from Midwestern University - Arizona College of Optometry in Glendale, AZ in May 2020. I passed all 3 parts of NBEO on the first time. My class had the highest pass rate for NBEO Part 1 and Part 2 in the nation. I was on a committee during Optometry school to help my class prepare for NBEO parts 1 and 2.
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- Midwestern University-Glendale - Doctor of Optometry, Optometry
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- MCAT
- OAT Survey of Natural Sciences
- OAT Quantitative Reasoning
- +3 subjects
Divyan: OAT test prep instructor
...Socratic method which involves a shared dialogue between teacher and students. The teacher leads by posing thought-provoking questions. Students actively engage by asking questions of their own. The discussion goes back and forth. This promotes critical thinking and allows me to explore the underlying beliefs that shape the students views and opinions. I believe in staying with my students till they are confidant enough to take up the problems independently even after the session. Cheers.
Education & Certification
- IIT Dhanbad - Bachelors, Electronics
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- Graduate Test Prep
- IB Physics
- +13 subjects
Carsen: OAT test prep instructor
...group" leader through multiple organizations. I am a member of the sorority Pi Beta Phi and held the positions of Historian, Senior Transition Leader, and member of the Leadership and Nominating Committee during my undergraduate years. As far as tutoring goes, I offer my services to students of all ages and in numerous subjects. I particularly enjoy tutoring the STEM subjects. I also thoroughly enjoy working with female STEM students, which allows me to serve...
Education & Certification
- Pepperdine University - Bachelor in Arts, Chemistry
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- MCAT
- ACT Reading
- Math
- +62 subjects
Wan: OAT test prep instructor
I am an O.D. graduate from the class of 2023. Service and language have always been my passion! In addition to course support, I have experience tutoring transitioning high school students, college students, and nontraditional adult/senior students.
Education & Certification
- Wayne State University - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- MCAT
- LSAT
- DAT
- +73 subjects
Camille: OAT test prep instructor
...graduating with an Associate of Arts degree, I won another tennis scholarship to St. Thomas University. There, I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. As an athlete, I traveled frequently. I was fortunate to experience many different cultures and meet people of various backgrounds. It has enabled me to be flexible and versatile to unexpected turns and twists in life. Maturity provided a stable ground that kept me in the direction I face...
Education & Certification
- Saint Thomas University - Bachelor of Science, Human Biology
- Barry University - Master of Science, Biomedical Sciences
- Avalon University School of Medicine - Doctor of Medicine, Premedicine
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- LSAT
- PCAT
- +594 subjects
Nathan: OAT test prep instructor
...favorite pastime. The combination of the two lead me to my field of studyconvergence journalism with an emphasis in humanitarian journalism. I earned my degree from the University of Missouri School of Journalism in 2014. Upon graduating, I've applied my skills to different jobs in varying industries. These roles include reporting, marketing, research, technology and teaching. My goal when working with students is to help them understand the "why" behind what they are learning. I...
Education & Certification
- Missouri School of Journalism - Bachelor in Arts, Journalism
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- Adult Literacy
- High School Level American History
- High School Writing
- +80 subjects
Rooa: OAT test prep instructor
...to my home country of Sudan where I would volunteer in local hospitals and clinics and shadow optometrists and other medical doctors. I fell in love with the optometry field and decided to build a career as an eye doctor. As much as I was excited about dedicating my life to such a rigorous career, I was also very passionate about teaching. I taught and continue to teach a wide range of courses, predominantly focusing...
Education & Certification
- Brandeis University - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- LSAT
- MCAT
- +33 subjects
Sierra: OAT test prep instructor
...recent college graduate from the University of South Florida. I have a B.S. degree in Natural Sciences and am currently working on an optometry degree. I have an extensive background in teaching and tutoring. I am currently a substitute for the county of Hillsborough and have previous years of experience in after school programs. As a tutor, I focus on developing key learning techniques that will help progress the student's learning. Together we will outline...
Education & Certification
- University of South Florida-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Natural Sciences
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- College Chemistry
- Statistics
- High School Biology
- +20 subjects