The OAT Score Scale

The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) produces scores on a 200–400 scale for each section: Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning. The score that matters most is the Academic Average (AA) — the average of Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Quantitative Reasoning. Most schools also consider the Total Science (TS) score and Reading Comprehension separately, but when someone asks "what OAT score do I need?" they're asking about the AA.

The national average AA hovers around 300, which corresponds roughly to the 50th percentile. A score of 320 puts you around the 70th percentile. A 340 is approximately the 90th percentile. A score above 350 is exceptional — roughly the 95th percentile or above.

What Top Programs Actually Admit

Here is what the data shows across tiers of ACOE-accredited US optometry schools:

  • Top-tier programmes (UC Berkeley, Houston, Ohio State): Median AA 330–340. These schools consistently admit classes with scores well above the national average. A 320 is possible but puts you below median.
  • Mid-tier programmes (Indiana, UAB, SUNY, Ferris State): Median AA 310–325. A score of 310 is competitive; 300 is within range but below median.
  • Lower-tier and newer programmes: Median AA 300–310. Scores around the national average are competitive here, though stronger scores still help with scholarships.

An important nuance: optometry school admissions are less score-driven than law or medical admissions. A student with a 310 AA and a 3.6 GPA with extensive clinical experience can be competitive at programmes where the median AA is 320. The OAT matters, but it doesn't dominate the way the LSAT dominates law school admissions.

What Score Should You Target?

If you're building a balanced school list, these are reasonable targets:

  • 330+ AA: Competitive everywhere. Opens doors for merit scholarships at most programmes.
  • 310–329 AA: Competitive at the majority of US programmes. A solid GPA and clinical experience fill the gaps at top schools.
  • 300–309 AA: Competitive at many programmes but limits your options at the most selective schools. Focus on programmes where your GPA and experience are strong complements.
  • Below 300 AA: Still possible to gain admission, but your school list narrows considerably. Consider retaking if your practice scores suggest you can improve significantly.

Section Scores Matter Too

Some schools screen for individual section scores, particularly Biology and Reading Comprehension. A 340 AA with a 280 in Biology raises flags. Aim for balanced section scores — no individual section more than 30 points below your AA. Schools want well-rounded scientific foundations, not a student who aced one section and struggled in others.

Should You Retake?

You can retake the OAT after 90 days. Schools see all scores but generally consider your highest AA. If your practice tests consistently scored 20+ points above your actual score, a retake is worth considering. If your actual score matched your practice performance, additional preparation time is needed before a retake makes sense.

For a broader view of what optometry schools are looking for beyond test scores, read our guide on GPA and optometry school admissions.