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
  • Activating your Quest account
  • Notifying your referees
  • Completing the Admission Information Form
  • 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 2025 entry and are subject to change on an annual basis. Please check for updates regularly.

Stage 1

  1. 2024
    1. Sep
      1. September 19

        Application opens

        Apply through OUAC.
      2. September 30

        Deadline to write the OAT for September 2025 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 2025 admission. 

        OAT scores from August 31, 2022 to September 30, 2024 will be considered for September 2025 admission.
    2. Oct
      1. Casper test dates

        You must have applied to OUAC and then received your Waterloo ID#, to register for the Casper.  

        Approved Casper test dates for the Doctor of Optometry program: 

        • October 3, 2024, 8:00 PM 
        • October 6, 2024, 4:00 PM - NEW 
        • October 10, 2024, 8:00 PM
        • October 16, 2024, 6:00 PM - NEW 
        • October 16, 2024, 8:00 PM 
        • November 7, 2024, 8:00 PM

        NOTE: If any additional test dates are posted before November 7 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, but you will have to update your file with your accurate Waterloo ID number by November 14. Ensure you have selected University of Waterloo Optometry for distribution before the application deadline.

        Casper can only be taken once per year. 

    3. Nov
      1. November 14

        Application closes

        Last day to apply through OUAC. 

      2. November 23

        Open house for applicants in the 2025 admission cycle only.

        Applicants will receive an invitation and will be asked to register if planning to attend. 

      3. November 28

    4. Dec
      1. December 12

        Confidential Reference Forms (x2) deadline

      2. December 16

        Week of December 16
        Interview invitations for stage 2, and first-round refusals

Stage 2

  1. 2025
    1. Jan
      1. Mid-late January

        Virtual interview weekend 

      2. January 31

        Fall 2024 final transcript deadline for applicants who received an interview invite

    2. Mar
      1. End of March

        All admissions decisions will be communicated via email

    3. May
      1. May 9

        Deadline to complete winter 2025 courses, including any remaining prerequisites

    4. Jun
      1. June 23

        Final official transcript deadline

    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.