Um really…… it depends… on which uni you are applying to.

There are five schools of optometry in Australian universities, and a recent article in Australian Optometry magazine summarized the entry requirements:

1. University of New South Wales – UMAT (undergrad entry) or GAMSAT (graduate entry) is required.
2. Flinders University – UMAT is required for undergrad entry.
3. University of Melbourne – The Doctor of Optometry is a only available as a post-grad course, and GAMSAT is required.
4. Queensland University of Technology and Deakin University are not planning on introducing UMAT/GAMSAT as part of their entry requirements.

Hopefully this has sorted out any confusion you may have had, because….. yes…… it does vary depending on which university you are planning on attending. It starts to raise questions such as ‘would I be prepared to move interstate to study optometry because I am likely to meet some entry requirements and not others?’ Lots to think about!! We recommend you check out the full entry requirements for each university, because this article has just covered whether UMAT/GAMSAT is required. It might be worth chatting to your careers adviser or career development practitioner to discuss your pathway options.

Check out more information about optometry in Australia: https://www.myhealthcareer.com.au/latest-news/optometry/

Disclaimer – this information was correct at the time of writing. Please check with the university you are applying to as to whether UMAT or GAMSAT is a requirement.

More resources on My Health Career:

• Pathway infographic to become an optometrist
• The best parts about being an optometrist
• ATAR for optometry