OAT Exam Basics
What is the OAT (Optometry Admission Test)?
The OAT (Optometry Admission Test) is a comprehensive standardized exam required for admission to optometry schools in the United States and Canada. It's one of the most critical components of your optometry school application and often serves as the first major filter in the admissions process. What the OAT Tests: Survey of Natural Sciences (100 questions, 90 minutes): Biology (40 questions), General Chemistry (30 questions), and Organic Chemistry (30 questions) Physics (40 questions, 50 minutes): Mechanics, energy, waves, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics concepts Reading Comprehension (50 questions, 60 minutes): Understanding and analyzing three scientific passages Quantitative Reasoning (40 questions, 45 minutes): Math, algebra, statistics, probability, and data analysis Why Your OAT Score Matters: The OAT is administered by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and is a critical step in your journey to becoming an optometrist. Your OAT score is often the first filter optometry schools use when reviewing applications. A competitive score gets your application reviewed by admissions committees, while a low score can eliminate you from consideration regardless of your GPA, extracurriculars, or personal statement. • Minimum Competitive: 300-320 Academic Average (AA) • Competitive for Most Schools: 340-360 AA • Highly Competitive (Top Schools): 360+ AA • National Average: ~320 AA That's why thorough preparation with CrackOAT is essential. Our platform provides 10 full-length practice tests, 10,000+ practice questions, 50,000+ flashcards, and unlimited quiz generation to help you achieve your target score and maximize your chances of admission to your dream optometry school.
How is the OAT exam structured?
The OAT is a computer-based exam administered at Prometric testing centers. The total testing time is approximately 4.5 hours, including optional breaks. OAT Exam Structure: 1. Survey of Natural Sciences 100 questions | 90 minutes Biology (40 questions) General Chemistry (30 questions) Organic Chemistry (30 questions) 2. Physics 40 questions | 50 minutes Mechanics, Energy, Waves, Optics Thermodynamics, Modern Physics 3. Reading Comprehension 50 questions | 60 minutes 3 scientific passages with comprehension questions 4. Quantitative Reasoning 40 questions | 45 minutes Math, algebra, statistics, and data analysis Important Notes: You get one optional 15-minute break after the second section The exam is computer-based with on-screen calculator for Quantitative Reasoning You cannot go back to previous sections once you move forward Scratch paper and pencils are provided at the testing center CrackOAT's practice tests mirror this exact structure, so you'll be fully prepared for the timing and format on test day.
What is a good OAT score?
OAT scores range from 200 to 400 for each section. Your Academic Average (AA) combines your scores in Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Reading Comprehension, Physics, and Quantitative Reasoning. Score Breakdown: Below 300 AA - Below Average May limit your options; consider retaking 300-320 AA - Average Meets minimum requirements for many schools 330-340 AA - Competitive Strong score for most optometry schools 350-360 AA - Highly Competitive Excellent score for top-tier programs 370+ AA - Exceptional Top 1% of test-takers; opens all doors Important Considerations: Physics Score Matters: Many schools weigh the Physics section score heavily, so don't neglect this section Balanced Scores: Avoid having one very low section score (below 300) School-Specific Requirements: Research your target schools' average admitted student scores Holistic Review: OAT is important, but GPA, experience, and interviews also matter National Averages: The average OAT score is around 300 AA, with a standard deviation of about 40 points. This means a score of 340+ puts you in the top 16% of test-takers. CrackOAT's practice tests use realistic scoring algorithms to help you accurately predict your actual OAT score and identify areas for improvement.
How much does the OAT exam cost and how do I register?
The OAT exam registration fee is $520 (subject to change by ASCO). This is a significant investment, which is why preparing thoroughly with quality resources like CrackOAT is essential to avoid retaking the exam. Registration Process: Visit the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) website at optomcas.org Create an OAT account Complete the OAT application and pay the $520 fee Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) letter via email (usually within 2-3 business days) Schedule your exam appointment at a Prometric testing center Pro Tips: Register 2-3 months before your desired test date to ensure availability Choose a testing center close to home to minimize travel stress on exam day Schedule your exam for a time when you perform best (morning vs. afternoon) Consider testing center reviews and availability before selecting your location Given the $520 cost, it is crucial to prepare thoroughly the first time. CrackOAT provides everything you need to ace the OAT on your first attempt, saving you time and money.
When should I take the OAT exam?
Most pre-optometry students take the OAT exam during their junior or senior year of undergraduate studies, typically 8-12 weeks after starting dedicated preparation. We recommend scheduling your exam after completing your prerequisite science courses but while the material is still fresh.
What topics are covered on the OAT exam?
The OAT covers comprehensive pre-optometry knowledge across multiple sections: Survey of Natural Sciences (100 questions): Biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry Physics (40 questions): Mechanics, electricity, magnetism, waves, and optics Reading Comprehension (50 questions): Comprehension of scientific and technical passages Quantitative Reasoning (40 questions): Math, statistics, and data analysis The exam emphasizes problem-solving and application of concepts rather than pure memorization.
Study Strategies
How long should I study for the OAT?
Most successful pre-optometry students study for 8-12 weeks before taking the OAT, dedicating 2-4 hours daily to focused preparation. However, the ideal study duration varies based on several factors. Factors That Affect Study Time: Science Background: Recent completion of prerequisites = less time needed Starting Score: Higher diagnostic score = shorter prep time Target Score: Aiming for 370+ AA requires more intensive preparation Daily Study Time: 4 hours/day for 8 weeks = 2 hours/day for 16 weeks Learning Style: Some students need more repetition than others Recommended Study Timeline: Weeks 1-2: Diagnostic & Content Review Take diagnostic test, identify weak areas, start video courses Weeks 3-6: Intensive Practice Complete practice questions, use flashcards daily, take section-specific tests Weeks 7-10: Full-Length Tests Take full-length practice tests weekly, review mistakes thoroughly Weeks 11-12: Final Review Focus on weak areas, light review, maintain confidence Study Schedule Examples: Intensive (8 weeks): 4-5 hours/day, ideal for summer break Standard (12 weeks): 3-4 hours/day, balanced with coursework Extended (16 weeks): 2-3 hours/day, for busy schedules Students using CrackOAT typically see significant improvement within 6-8 weeks of consistent practice with our 10,000+ practice questions, 50,000+ flashcards, and 100+ hours of video content. Our platform tracks your progress and adapts to your learning pace. Pro Tip: Quality beats quantity. 3 hours of focused, active practice is better than 6 hours of passive reading.
What are the best study strategies to ace the OAT?
Achieving a competitive OAT score requires strategic preparation, not just hard work. Here are the proven strategies that top-scoring students use: Essential Study Strategies: Start with a Diagnostic Test: Take a full-length practice test before you begin studying to identify your baseline score and knowledge gaps in each section. Create a Structured Study Schedule: Plan an 8-12 week timeline covering all exam domains. Use Active Learning: Practice questions are 10x more effective than passive reading. Take Full-Length Timed Practice Tests: Complete at least 6-8 full-length practice exams under realistic testing conditions. Review Every Question: Study detailed explanations for both correct AND incorrect answers. Focus on Weak Areas: Use your practice test results to identify weak topics. Use Spaced Repetition: Review flashcards daily using spaced repetition. Practice Physics Daily: Even 15-20 minutes daily makes a huge difference. Simulate Test Conditions: Practice with the same timing and environment. Join Study Groups: Collaborate with other pre-optometry students. ✓ 10 Full-Length Practice Tests with realistic scoring ✓ 10,000+ Practice Questions with detailed explanations ✓ 50,000+ Flashcards with spaced repetition tracking ✓ Unlimited Quiz Generation for targeted practice ✓ Comprehensive Performance Analytics to identify weak areas Remember: Consistency beats intensity. Studying 3 hours daily for 10 weeks is more effective than cramming 8 hours daily for 4 weeks.
How many practice questions should I complete before taking the OAT?
We recommend completing at least 2,000-3,000 practice questions before taking the OAT, with a minimum of 6-8 full-length practice tests . Practice Question Benchmarks: Minimum: 2,000 questions + 6 full-length tests Recommended: 3,000-4,000 questions + 8-10 full-length tests High Achievers (350+ AA): 5,000+ questions + 10+ full-length tests • 10,000+ Practice Questions covering all OAT sections • 10 Full-Length Practice Tests with realistic scoring • Section-specific tests for targeted practice • Unlimited Quiz Generation for custom practice Remember: Quality over quantity. Always review detailed explanations to understand why answers are correct or incorrect.
Should I use flashcards to study for the OAT?
Absolutely yes! Flashcards are one of the most effective study tools for OAT preparation, especially for memorizing the massive amount of biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy content tested on the exam. Why Flashcards Work: Spaced Repetition: Reviewing flashcards at increasing intervals transfers information from short-term to long-term memory Active Recall: Forcing yourself to retrieve information strengthens neural pathways Efficient Review: Quickly review hundreds of concepts in 30-60 minutes Portable Study: Study anywhere - between classes, on the bus, before bed • 50,000+ Professionally-Created Flashcards • Organized into subject-specific decks • Learning, Reviewing, and Mastered tags to track progress • Unlimited Flashcard Generation for custom concepts Pro Tip: Combine flashcards with practice questions for optimal results.
How should I prepare for the Physics section?
The Physics section requires consistent practice to master mechanics, energy, waves, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics concepts. We recommend: Start with fundamental physics concepts and formulas Practice all physics topics: Mechanics, Energy & Work, Waves & Sound, Optics & Light, Thermodynamics, Electricity & Magnetism, and Modern Physics Take timed practice tests to build speed and accuracy Review mistakes carefully to understand problem-solving patterns Practice daily for at least 30 minutes Crack the OAT includes extensive Physics practice with detailed video explanations for each question type and problem-solving strategies.
What is the best approach for the Reading Comprehension section?
Reading Comprehension on the OAT tests your ability to understand scientific passages quickly and accurately. Effective strategies include: Read the passage actively, noting main ideas and supporting details Understand the question types: main idea, specific detail, inference, and application Practice time management - aim to spend 2-3 minutes reading and 1-2 minutes answering questions Don't over-analyze - the answer is always in the passage Practice with diverse scientific topics to build familiarity Crack the OAT provides 50+ hours of reading comprehension strategies and 2,700+ practice questions.
About Crack the OAT
What is Crack the OAT and how can it help me ace the OAT?
CrackOAT is the most comprehensive online OAT exam preparation platform, trusted by over 20,000 pre-optometry students. We provide everything you need to ace the OAT and get into optometry school. What You Get: 10 Full-Length Practice Tests - Realistic OAT simulators 10,000+ Practice Questions - Comprehensive coverage of all OAT sections 50,000+ Flashcards - Organized into subject-specific decks 100+ Hours of Video Content - Expert instruction on every OAT topic Unlimited Quiz Generation - Create custom practice quizzes Unlimited Instant Help - Get explanations and study guidance 24/7 Our platform is designed by optometry educators and updated regularly to reflect the current OAT exam format.
Is Crack the OAT updated for the latest OAT exam format?
Yes! Crack the OAT is continuously updated to reflect the most current OAT exam format and content specifications. We work closely with optometry educators, recent exam takers, and subject matter experts to ensure our practice questions, flashcards, and video content align with the latest ASCO exam blueprint. All content is reviewed and updated regularly to maintain accuracy and relevance.
How many practice tests are included with Crack the OAT?
Crack the OAT includes 10 Full-Length OAT Tests for the Optometry Admission Test with 10,000+ OAT Questions. Each practice test mirrors the real exam structure with all sections: Survey of Natural Sciences, Physics, Reading Comprehension, and Quantitative Reasoning. Every question includes detailed explanations written by optometry experts.
What makes CrackOAT different from other OAT prep courses?
CrackOAT stands out from traditional prep courses through our combination of comprehensive content, cutting-edge technology, and proven results. 1. Massive Content Library 10,000+ Practice Questions vs. competitors' 1,000-2,000 questions 50,000+ Flashcards across 49 subject-specific decks 100+ Hours of Video Content covering every OAT topic 2. Unlimited Study Tools Unlimited Quiz Generation: Create custom practice quizzes on any topic Unlimited Instant Help: Get explanations and study guidance 24/7 3. Gamification That Motivates Points, badges, and streaks make studying engaging Leaderboards let you compete with friends 4. Affordable Pricing $299-$499 vs. $500-$2,000+ for traditional courses. Payment plans available.
What is your Higher Score Guarantee?
We're confident in our platform's effectiveness. If you give Crack the OAT an honest try and don't see improvement in your OAT score, we'll work with you. Our guarantee requires: Completing at least 8 practice tests in each section Marking at least 80% of video content as complete Answering at least 80% of practice questions Having an official baseline OAT score from a previous attempt If you meet these requirements and your score doesn't improve, we'll extend your membership for free until your next OAT retake (up to 180 days).
Can I use Crack the OAT to prepare for the Canadian OAT?
Crack the OAT is specifically designed for the U.S. OAT (Optometry Admission Test) administered by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. The Canadian OAT has different content, format, and scoring. If you're preparing for the Canadian OAT, we recommend consulting resources specifically designed for that exam.
Does Crack the OAT help with optometry school admissions beyond the OAT?
Crack the OAT focuses specifically on helping you ace the OAT exam. While our platform doesn't directly assist with other admissions components (personal statements, interviews, GPA), a strong OAT score is crucial for getting your application reviewed by optometry schools.
Why is CrackOAT better than other resources?
CrackOAT stands out from competitors through our combination of comprehensive content, cutting-edge technology, and proven results. 1. Massive Content Library 10,000+ practice questions, 100+ hours of video lessons, and 50,000+ flashcards across 49 subject-specific decks. 2. Unlimited Study Features Unlimited Quiz Generation creates custom practice quizzes. Unlimited Instant Help acts like a personal tutor. 3. Gamification That Actually Works Points, badges, streaks, and leaderboards make studying engaging and fun. 4. Affordable & Flexible $299-$499 vs. $500-$2,000+ for traditional courses. Payment plans available. 5. Proven Track Record Trusted by over 20,000 pre-optometry students with thousands of success stories. The Bottom Line: The combination of unlimited practice generation, personalized study tools, gamification, and realistic simulators gives you an unfair advantage.
Pricing & Plans
How much does CrackOAT cost?
CrackOAT offers flexible pricing to fit your budget and study timeline. Our premium membership provides exceptional value compared to the $520 OAT exam fee and $2,000+ traditional prep courses. What's Included in Every Plan: 10 Full-Length Practice Tests 10,000+ Practice Questions 50,000+ Flashcards 100+ Hours of Video Courses Unlimited Quiz Generation Unlimited Instant Help Pricing Options: $299-$499 depending on membership length. We also offer payment plans through Afterpay, group discounts, and financial aid. Investment Perspective: Spending $299-$499 on comprehensive prep is a smart investment to avoid retaking the $520 exam.
Is this a subscription? Will I be charged automatically?
No, this is NOT a subscription! When you purchase CrackOAT, you make a one-time payment for a specific access period. Your access automatically ends at the end of your membership period You will NOT be charged again No auto-renewal It's a simple one-time purchase. No surprises, no automatic charges.
How do I cancel my membership?
You don't need to cancel anything! Your membership automatically ends at the end of your access period. There's no auto-renewal and no further charges. Your access automatically expires You won't be charged again No action required from you Simple, transparent, and no hidden auto-renewals!
Do you work with pre-optometry societies?
Yes! We work with pre-optometry societies and offer bulk discounts to organizations that sign up the majority of their pre-optometry society members. Contact hello@crackoat.com to discuss group pricing and special rates.
What is your refund policy?
All sales are final. We do not offer refunds once you have purchased access to CrackOAT. Why No Refunds? Digital products cannot be "returned" once accessed We provide extensive free demo content before purchase You can evaluate the platform thoroughly before committing Before You Buy: Try our free diagnostic test, video previews, and sample questions to ensure CrackOAT is right for you.
Can I purchase now but activate my Crack the OAT account later?
Yes! When you purchase a Crack the OAT membership, you can choose to activate it immediately or schedule activation for a later date. Your membership access period begins from the date you activate your account, not from the purchase date.
Do you offer discounts for students with financial need?
Yes! We believe cost should not be a barrier to quality OAT preparation. Contact us at hello@crackoat.com with information about your situation. We offer: Reduced pricing for students with demonstrated financial need Payment plans through Afterpay (4 interest-free payments) Special pricing for students who received OAT fee waivers from ASCO Group discounts for pre-optometry societies and clubs
Do you offer payment plans for Crack the OAT?
Yes! We understand that upfront costs can be challenging for students. Crack the OAT offers flexible payment options: Afterpay: Split your purchase into 4 interest-free payments spread over 8 weeks Monthly membership plans: Pay monthly instead of upfront Financial aid: Contact us at hello@crackoat.com if you have demonstrated financial need No hidden fees or surprise charges - just transparent, flexible pricing.
Can I extend my Crack the OAT membership after it expires?
Yes! You can extend your membership anytime before or after it expires. Contact hello@crackoat.com or use the renewal option in your account dashboard. We offer flexible extension periods (30, 60, 90, or 180 days) at prorated pricing. Your progress is preserved when you renew.
How can I set up a group discount for my pre-optometry cohort?
We offer significant group discounts for pre-optometry societies, study groups, and optometry school cohorts. Contact hello@crackoat.com with the number of students interested We'll provide a custom quote with volume-based pricing We can create access codes for easy distribution Larger groups receive deeper discounts We can also provide instructor dashboards to track group progress if needed.
How can I purchase institutional access for my optometry school?
Crack the OAT offers institutional licensing for optometry schools and pre-optometry programs. Institutional access provides: Discounted per-student pricing based on cohort size Bulk access codes for easy distribution Instructor dashboards to monitor student progress Custom branding options Dedicated account management and support Contact hello@crackoat.com with details about your institution and student population.
Study Features
What are the Learning, Reviewing, and Mastered tags in the flashcard system?
Our intelligent flashcard system uses three progress tags: "Learning" indicates you're seeing the material for the first time. "Reviewing" means you've encountered the concept before but haven't demonstrated consistent mastery yet. "Mastered" shows you've demonstrated strong, consistent understanding through repeated correct responses.
How does Unlimited Quiz Generation help with OAT preparation?
Our Unlimited Quiz Generation feature creates custom practice quizzes tailored to your specific needs, giving you an endless supply of targeted practice material. How It Works: Choose the topic you want to focus on Select the number of questions you want Pick your difficulty level Get instant, exam-style questions with detailed explanations Why This Is Powerful: Target Weak Areas: Create quizzes specifically for topics you struggle with Never Run Out of Practice: Generate unlimited unique questions Study Smarter: Focus your time where it matters most
What is Unlimited Instant Help and how can it help me study?
Unlimited Instant Help gives you 24/7 access to expert explanations, study guidance, and concept clarification - like having a personal OAT tutor available whenever you need help. What You Can Ask: Concept Explanations: "Explain the mechanism of SN1 vs SN2 reactions" Topic Comparisons: "What's the difference between mitosis and meiosis?" Strategy Advice: "How should I approach the physics section?" Study Planning: "What should I focus on in my last 2 weeks before the OAT?" Premium members get unlimited access with no restrictions.
How do the score reports help me improve my OAT performance?
Crack the OAT provides comprehensive score reports after each practice test, showing: Overall OAT score and estimated Academic Average (AA) Performance breakdown by section Comparison to average student performance Time spent per question vs. recommended pace Question-by-question review with detailed explanations Personalized study plan focusing on your weakest categories
Technical & Access
Can I access Crack the OAT on my phone or tablet?
Yes! Crack the OAT is fully responsive and optimized for all devices - desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Your progress syncs automatically across all devices in real-time. No app download required - simply access through your web browser.
What happens when my Crack the OAT membership expires?
When your membership expires, you'll lose access to premium content. However, your progress data, saved test results, and performance analytics are retained for 90 days, allowing you to reactivate and pick up exactly where you left off.
How can I contact Crack the OAT support?
We offer multiple ways to reach our support team: Use the Contact page in your dashboard Email us directly at hello@crackoat.com Click the chat button in the bottom-right corner of any page Our support team typically responds within 24 hours on business days.
Can I use Crack the OAT on my phone or tablet?
Yes! Crack the OAT is fully responsive and optimized for all devices - desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones (iOS and Android). Your progress syncs automatically across all devices in real-time. No app download required - simply access through your web browser.
Can I adjust the video playback speed?
Yes! All video content in Crack the OAT supports adjustable playback speed. You can slow down videos to 0.75x speed or speed them up to 1.5x or 2x speed. You can also pause, rewind, and take notes while watching videos.
I have testing accommodations for the OAT. Can I turn off the exam timer?
Yes! Crack the OAT supports testing accommodations for students with documented needs. Contact hello@crackoat.com with documentation of your accommodations, and we'll enable the appropriate settings for your practice tests.
Referral Program
Do you offer sponsorships for pre-optometry influencers and content creators?
Yes! We partner with pre-optometry influencers, content creators, and student ambassadors who are passionate about helping their peers ace the OAT. Who We Work With: YouTube creators making OAT prep or pre-optometry content TikTok influencers sharing study tips Instagram accounts focused on pre-optometry students Podcast hosts discussing optometry school admissions Student ambassadors at universities Partnership Opportunities: Referral Program (10% Commission): Sign up at /referrals to get your unique referral link Exclusive Discount Codes: Get custom discount codes for your audience Free Premium Access: Complimentary CrackOAT membership Paid Partnerships: Sponsored content opportunities Visit /referrals in your CrackOAT account to get your unique referral link and start earning 10% commission right away.
What is the CrackOAT referral program and how can I earn 10% commission?
The CrackOAT referral program lets you earn 10% commission by sharing your unique referral link with other pre-optometry students. How It Works: Sign up for CrackOAT and access your referral dashboard at /referrals Get your unique referral link Share it with classmates, study groups, or on social media Earn 10% commission on every purchase made through your link Track your earnings in real-time on your referral dashboard Unlimited Earning Potential: There's no limit to how many students you can refer or how much you can earn. Many students earn $100-$500+ by sharing with their pre-optometry cohort.
How do I get my referral link and start earning?
Getting started is easy! Log into your Crack the OAT account Go to the "Referrals" page in your dashboard Copy your unique referral link Share it with classmates via social media, email, WhatsApp, or any other platform Your referral link is personalized just for you and tracks everyone who clicks it. When someone signs up using your link, they automatically get 10% off their purchase, and you earn 10% commission.
How much can I earn from referrals?
You earn 10% commission on every signup that comes through your referral link. For example, if someone purchases a $399 membership using your link, you earn $39.90. There's no limit to how many students you can refer. Payouts are processed monthly via PayPal.
When do I get paid for referrals?
Commissions are calculated when someone signs up using your referral link and makes a purchase. Payouts are processed monthly on the 1st of each month via PayPal. The minimum payout amount is $50.
Do my referred friends get a discount?
Yes! When someone signs up using your referral link, they automatically receive 10% off their Crack the OAT membership. This is a win-win: your friends save money on their OAT prep, and you earn commission.