UAB School of Optometry (2026): OAT Requirements, Admissions, and Tuition | OAT Destroyer | DAT Destroyer | Dr. Jim Romano

The UAB School of Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is one of the leading optometry programs in the southeastern United States. Located in Birmingham, Alabama, UAB offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree with a strong emphasis on primary eye care, ocular disease, and low vision rehabilitation. The school is known for its research programs, diverse patient population, and strong clinical training through UAB Eye Care.
UAB optometry requirements, OAT scores, and admissions details are outlined below for students applying to the program.
About UAB School of Optometry
The UAB School of Optometry is accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE). Students gain extensive clinical experience through UAB Eye Care, one of the largest optometric clinical facilities in the Southeast, serving a broad range of patients across multiple specialties.
- Location: Birmingham, Alabama
- Degree Offered: Doctor of Optometry (OD)
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE)
- Clinical Facility: UAB Eye Care, Birmingham, Alabama
OAT Requirements
The UAB School of Optometry is a competitive program. Competitive applicants typically present:
- Academic Average (AA): approximately 320–350+
- Total Science (TS): approximately 320–350+
- Overall GPA: ~3.2+
- Science GPA: ~3.1+
Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred
- Completion of required science prerequisites (Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics, Math, Statistics)
- OAT scores (typically taken within the last 2–3 years)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Optometry shadowing experience strongly recommended
- Applications submitted through OptomCAS
Tuition and Costs (2026)
Estimated annual tuition:
- In-state students: ~$20,000–$25,000 per year
- Out-of-state students: ~$35,000–$45,000 per year
Prospective students should verify current figures directly with the UAB School of Optometry.
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