Doctor of Optometry (OD) - Application timeline

Future Doctor of Optometry students

After you apply (in OUAC)

You'll get an email with next steps and details about:

  • Registering for the CASPER test
  • Accessing your Applicant Portal
  • Notifying your referees
  • Completing required forms
  • English language requirements
  • Submitting transcripts
  • Communication and checking your document status
  • Interview selection and decision timelines

The deadlines and requirements on this page pertain to the Doctor of Optometry admission cycle for September 2027 entry and are subject to change on an annual basis.

Stage 1

  1. 2026
    1. Sep
      1. September 17

        Application opens

        Apply through OUAC.
      2. Casper test dates

        Approved Casper test dates for the Doctor of Optometry program: 

        • July 19, 2026 - 4:00 PM

        • August 11, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • August 27, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • September 10, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • September 22, 2026 – 8:00 PM

        • October 3, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • October 6, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • October 8, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • October 14, 2026 - 6:00 PM

        • October 14, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • October 15, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        • November 5, 2026 - 8:00 PM

        NOTE: All test dates occur before the program application deadline. If any additional test dates are posted before November 5 due to high demand, as long as they list the same test identifier below, scores will be accepted.

        All times/dates are ET - Eastern Time

        When signing up for a test date, use the following test identifier: CSP-10211 Canada Casper 2.

        If you do not have a Waterloo ID number yet, you can start the process (e.g. use a 9-digit placeholder ID to register), but you will have to update your file with your accurate Waterloo ID number by November 12. Ensure you have selected University of Waterloo Optometry  for distribution before the application deadline.

        Casper can only be taken once per year. 

      3. September 30

        Deadline to write the OAT for September 2027 admission

        Scores do not have to be received at the School by this date; however, this is the last day to write the OAT for September 2027 admission. 

        OAT scores from August 31, 2024 to September 30, 2026 will be considered for September 2027 admission.
    2. Nov
      1. November 12

        Application closes

        Last day to apply through OUAC. 

      2. November 26

        • Forms that must be completed by this date:

          • Declaration of Academic Experience form

          • Doctor of Optometry (OD) Pre-requisite Courses form

          • Doctor of Optometry (OD) Experiences form

          • References Contact Form (to provide contact information for your two references)

        • Indigenous Admissions Pathway - Motivational statement due.

        • Interim transcript must be received by the Registrar's Office

        • English Language Requirement (ELR) deadline

        • Special Consideration Request deadline

    3. Dec
      1. December 7

        Confidential Reference Forms (x2) deadline

      2. December 21

        Week of December 21
        Interview invitations for stage 2, and first-round refusals

Stage 2

  1. 2027
    1. Jan
      1. Mid-late January

        Virtual interview weekend 

    2. Mar
      1. End of March

        All admissions decisions will be communicated via email

    3. May
      1. May 7

        Deadline to complete all post-secondary courses, including winter 2027 courses and any remaining prerequisites.

    4. Jun
      1. June 21

        Final official transcript deadline

        • Current University of Waterloo students do not need to upload transcripts - grades are visible to admissions team.

    5. Sep

      1. Start of academic year

Deadlines will be 11:59 pm EDT on the day posted. Applications that do not meet deadlines will not be considered.