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.
Jessica: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
My background is in teaching composition, creative writing and analytical writing to college students. I have a PhD in Comparative Literature and I've published essays, stories, and plays. I taught at the University of Notre Dame for nine years. I am happy to be tutoring now because it gives me the opportunity to have an impact on students' lives from an early age. ... Every student is different. Their attention is different, their enthusiasms are different, and their learning is different. I try to understand each student on emotional as well as intellectual terms. I want to be in synch with them on every possible level so that my own approach is calibrated for the best possible outcome.
Education & Certification
- Barnard College - Bachelors, French, Women's Studies
- New York University - PHD, Comparative Literature
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- MCAT
- GRE
- +39 subjects
Mackenzie: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...in health and human disease, global health, and a minor in French. I love reading, traveling, learning and helping others learn! I have experience tutoring high school and elementary school students in math, science, and English and I love tutoring in each subject equally. Eventually, I see myself going to medical school and researching topics related to viral diseases which I've been interested in since a very young age. I'm very passionate about the subjects...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- GRE
- Human Resources
- +113 subjects
Angeles: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...peers in small groups after-school. This was the start of path as a supplemental educator: classroom setting tutoring in high school, working at a tutoring center my senior year, and providing in-home private tutoring throughout college. I strongly believe in teaching each student specifically to their educational needs, but also tailored to their individual learning habits. I personally always find that I learn the most when the topic is related to my life outside of...
Education & Certification
- University of Central Florida - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Sciences
- University of Central Florida - Master of Science, Biomedical Sciences
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- MCAT
- GRE
- +199 subjects
Ian: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
I believe in learning as the unlocking of fundamental human potential. I think that knowledge of the world as a whole allows you to be yourself more completely, to express yourself to others, and to make your developing dreams into reality.
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor of Science, Chemistry
- St Georges University of London - Doctor of Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- PCAT
- SAT Math
- +95 subjects
Alena: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...received my Bachelor's of Science in Biomedical Sciences and Psychology. Currently, I am an optometry student at SUNY College of Optometry in Manhattan, NY. In my previous roles of statistics tutor and anatomy teaching assistant at Marquette, I enjoyed being both a mentor and friend to my students. Each day was a learning experience for me as much as it was for them, and I felt as though my impact extended far beyond the classroom....
Education & Certification
- Marquette University - Bachelor of Science, Biomedical Sciences
- TBD Havent committed yet - Doctor of Optometry, Optometry
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- Math
- Other
- Social Sciences
- +19 subjects
Love: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...Analytics. I also did a two year fellowship with Teach for India where I got the chance to teach students. I believe that teaching requires a lot of hard work and effort as it is very important for the teacher to look at things from the student's perspective. I absolutely love teaching Mathematics and I feel proud to share that most of my students have become Math's wizards even though they didn't like the subject...
Education & Certification
- DigiPen Institute of Technology - Unknown, Computer Science
- Kelley School of Business - Master of Science, Information Systems
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- +67 subjects
Elizabeth: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...before "diversity training" became a mandate, I exposed my students to texts which focused on racism, sexism, homophobia, colonialism and anti-Semitism; years before the English speaking world caught onto the pedagogical theories of Paulo Freire, I insisted on student-centered learning, creating a safe environment in which my students could explore their deepest thoughts, sharing what was appropriate with their peers. My students are motivated and engaged with their studies; together we form a circle of...
Education & Certification
- DePaul University - Bachelors, English & Linguistics
- DePaul University - Masters, English & Linguistics/ Also hold TESOL credentials from College of Teachers, U.K.
- University of Malta - PHD, Theology
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- LSAT
- GRE
- +33 subjects
Felicia: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...barre, and dance fusion classes. My fitness and learning philosophy is to work hard and have fun. I enjoy helping others achieve and surpass their own personal goals. I aim to motivate students while teaching them to be intrinsically motivated through challenging yet supportive lessons and assignments. While at Northwestern, I conducted research in microgravity with the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. My photo is from a parabolic flight on NASA's "vomit comet."... My teaching philosophy is centered around making students more efficient learners, which aids in helping them to achieve their academic goals.
Education & Certification
- Dartmouth College - Bachelors, Government
- Northwestern University - Current Grad Student, Pre-medicine post baccalaureate certificate
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE
- GRE Subject Tests
- MCAT
- +87 subjects
Tola: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...has been teaching and tutoring for the past 7 years working with high school and undergraduate students, including college athletes. She has tutored or served as a teaching assistant in psychology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, and high school math courses. She has mentored and advised pre-medical students as a member of the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students (MAPS), Hope Medical Scholars at Harvard Medical School, and the Student National Medical Association.
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, Chemistry
- Harvard University - Doctor of Medicine, Homeopathic Medicine
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- LSAT
- MCAT
- +64 subjects
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Loyola University-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry - Doctor of Medical Dentistry, Predentistry
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- Graduate Test Prep
- Sociology
- +67 subjects
Shannon: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. Additionally, I minored in Business. I am working toward my Juris Doctor at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. I love sharing my love for learning by helping others reach their academic potential. As a tutor, I believe teaching should be tailored to suit each student's needs. Students learn best from different teaching styles. I am devoted to helping my students in a personalized fashion that allows...
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor in Arts, Spanish
- Loyola University-Chicago - Juris Doctor, Legal Studies
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- MCAT
- GMAT
- GRE
- +181 subjects
Remington: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...I am currently working at an experimental physics lab at the University of Maryland, College Park. My tutoring style is pretty relaxed. In my experience, if someone knows what question to ask then they are already pretty close to the answer; they just need a push in the right direction. I like to help people talk through the problems. My job is to steer you in the right direction and help you reach that "ah-ha!"...
Education & Certification
- University of Maryland - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology, Criminology
- University of Chicago - PHD, Physics
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- MCAT
- DAT
- Geometry
- +77 subjects
Benjamin: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...but sometimes we need someone trustworthy to point out where we have been lapsing. There shouldn't be any question that this skill has to be cultivated to see significant growth, but where does anyone get if they spend more time sufficing than striving? I've been a college writing tutor for over a year and consider every person's writing capability an invaluable trait worth honing. I think tutoring's a practice so largely undervalued that some people...
Education & Certification
- University of Wisconsin-Parkside - Bachelor of Fine Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- PCAT
- LSAT
- +48 subjects
Milena: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...continued to be at the forefront of my thinking. During high school I gained a deep appreciation for the importance of mathematics in everyday life .It also was the foundation to many other subjects such as physics and civil an industrial engineering. While in Europe, I gained significant real-world experience in civil-engineering, however I found my heartfelt excitement in tutoring. With over 2000+ students educated in subjects ranging from Pre - Algebra to Calculus, it...
Education & Certification
- College of Applied Technical Sciences Nis - Bachelor of Engineering, Construction Engineering
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering University of Nis - Master of Mechnaical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- PCAT
- GMAT
- +73 subjects
Tanya: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
Having been a tutor and teacher for almost 20 years, I enjoy working with all age groups and backgrounds. I focus on sciences and arts subjects as well as test prep. I am a medical doctor with MBA and MPH and enjoy tutoring as a second career.
Education & Certification
- St xavier - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- PCAT
- GRE
- ESL/ELL
- +129 subjects
Kevin: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...of Science degree and majored in Biology. I will attend the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry in the fall. During my undergraduate years, I have tutored students in math (up to Trigonometry), writing, biology and chemistry and I absolutely enjoyed it! I feel great to be able to teach someone shortcuts to solve difficult problems and understand difficult concepts. I tutor the DAT (Dental Admissions Test) and especially enjoy the perceptual ability...
Education & Certification
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Bachelors, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE Subject Tests
- DAT
- GRE
- +80 subjects
Michael: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...growing up was watching "Reading Rainbow." One of the most satisfying things to witness is when someone realizes they have new skills in sounding out words (ESL/elementary reading) or now-found confidence to take on the ACT! I do appreciate the learning styles of children as I currently share time each week at a pediatric hospital helping kids learn and grow! I have a passion for helping students learn to the best of their abilities. Whether...
Education & Certification
- Furman University - Bachelor in Arts, History
- Covenant Theological Seminary - Master of Divinity, Theology
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GMAT
- GRE
- DAT
- +115 subjects
Kevin: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...In my experience, rather than the Tutor being an all-knowing power who lectures on the information, the most beneficial environment for the student is one that feels like a conversation. By creating a dynamic atmosphere between Tutor and student, the student will be able to truly understand the material. Constant collaboration is the key to a student's success and I have spent years mastering this skill. My interests, outside of teaching, include sports, music, and...
Education & Certification
- University of California-San Diego - Bachelor of Science, Human Biology/Education Studies
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- PCAT
- MCAT
- +97 subjects
Anna: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...low-income backgrounds, students with learning disabilities, English Language Learners as well as students from a range of racial/ethnic identities. I strongly believe in every students' ability to learn new and challenging concepts. I have a knack for presenting information in ways that resonate with students and that students can understand. I take pride in my ability to make learning fun and rewarding -- even when it is a students' most challenging subject.... I believe in connecting new material to existing student knowledge. Students should always understand the importance of what they are learning and how it relates to their personal and professional goals.
Education & Certification
- New York University - Bachelors, Politics
- Johns Hopkins University - Masters, Education Studies
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- DAT
- PCAT
- Homework Support
- +99 subjects
Alexandra: Chicago OAT test prep instructor
...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 of subjects, I am most passionate about English, Literature, History, Spanish, and Government/Social Studies....
Education & Certification
- University of North Texas - Bachelor in Arts, Creative Writing
Subject Expertise
- OAT
- GRE
- PCAT
- MCAT
- +308 subjects