Admission criteria varies between programs. However, national regulations require completion of a baccalaureate degree prior to sitting for the American Orthoptic Council [AOC] certifying examinations. There are no required course prerequisites mandated from AOC, individual orthoptic programs may have their own pre-requisite requirements or recommendations.

The Graduate Record Examination is not required. Advance standing may be awarded to ophthalmic medical personnel who possess an undergraduate degree and a current COT or COMT certification. Advance standing eligibility is determined by the program director upon a candidate’s acceptance into their program. Advanced standing may also be granted on a case-by-case basis by the AOC based on the extra qualifications, degrees and/or related work experience of the applicant. A request for special consideration of advanced standing will be submitted by the program director on the student’s behalf. Advanced standing students must complete a minimum of 12 months in an accredited program. The exact length of training will be determined by the program director based on the student’s progress, their fulfillment of the program’s requisites and if they are deemed ready to sit the AOC certifying exams.