How to Apply to Occupational Therapist School: Everything You Need to Know
Are you ready to start your journey toward a fulfilling career as an occupational therapist? Discover the essential steps to apply to occupational therapy (OT) programs, from researching schools to submitting your application. This guide simplifies the process, helping you take confident strides toward making a meaningful impact in others’ lives.
If you are interested in pursuing occupational therapy after completing a college degree, there are OT master’s and OT doctorate level programs you can apply to. There also are accelerated BS/MS or BS to OTD programs you can pursue right after high school.
Here are some useful tips to help you with the application process:
How to Apply to Occupational Therapist School: Everything You Need to Know
Are you ready to start your journey toward a fulfilling career as an occupational therapist? Discover the essential steps to apply to occupational therapy (OT) programs, from researching schools to submitting your application. This guide simplifies the process, helping you take confident strides toward making a meaningful impact in others’ lives.
If you are interested in pursuing occupational therapy after completing a college degree, there are OT master’s and OT doctorate level programs you can apply to. There also are accelerated BS/MS or BS to OTD programs you can pursue right after high school.
Here are some useful tips to help you with the application process:
Research Programs
You can use our Occupational Therapy School Directory to help you with your search. There are a few factors you may want to consider, such as degree type (OT master’s or OT doctorate), program length, location, and format of classes (hybrid, in-person, weekend, and evening). Program requirements vary, so be sure to check prerequisites, GPA requirements, observation/volunteer hours, supplemental materials, and other important criteria.
Observe/shadow an OT, if required
Programs may require candidates to shadow an OT, or you may be interested in gaining experience yourself.
Take any required exams and program prerequisites
If applying right out of high school:
Take SAT and/or ACT
Take the SAT and/or ACT as required or accepted by the programs you are applying to. SAT and ACT are standardized college admissions tests administered by CollegeBoard and American College Testing, respectively. More information about the SAT can be found here. More information about the ACT can be found here.
Fulfill/meet course prerequisites and complete your undergraduate degree.
While common course prerequisites can be found here, it is best to research each program you are applying to for a list of specific course requirements
OR
If applying after receiving a college degree:
Take GRE, if required
You may need to take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) if required by the program(s) you are applying to. GRE is a standardized graduate admissions test administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). More information about sending your GRE scores to graduate institutions can be found here and on the ETS website.
Request letters of recommendation, if required
Programs may require two to three letters of recommendation. Be sure to include these with your application if required. You should ask for letters of recommendation from a core subject teacher, school counselor, coach/club advisor, or employer. Prioritize those who can meaningfully speak to your academic performance, character, and abilities.
Write a personal statement essay, if required
Programs may require a personal statement essay, explaining why you want to be an occupational therapist and why you would be a great addition to the next cohort of students. Personal statements should be 600-800 words or one to two pages maximum.
Submit applications
Determine the application process for each program you are applying to. Submit your applications according to each set of program-specific instructions. Programs may have their own application forms and portals, or programs may participate in the Occupational Therapist Centralized Application Service (OTCAS). Properly complete the application process in its entirety and include all supporting documents.
Send transcript(s) to schools
Occupational therapy programs may require your college or university transcript(s) to be sent along with your application. To request your transcript(s), contact your school registrar’s office and fill out any necessary transcript request forms. You will need to determine each program’s transcript delivery method. Programs may accept transcripts electronically or by mail to the admissions office. Verify the correct email address or mailing address before sending your transcript(s).
Prepare for interviews, if required
Programs may require admissions interviews, which could be virtual or in-person. Prepare for your interviews so that you come off as self-assured and confident. Speak about your interest in occupational therapy, as well as your attributes and strengths. Provide concrete and thorough examples as you answer each question. You can do a mock interview with a family member or friend, or you can practice in front of a mirror.
Check status of applications and supporting documents
Check on the status of your applications and supporting documents, according to each program’s application process and instructions. Make sure all required materials have been received by each program.
Decide on a school
Decide on which occupational therapy program to attend. You may want to consider location, tuition, housing costs, program length, class format, class sizes, student life, clinical placement/fieldwork opportunities, and practice areas you are interested in.
Apply for scholarships and/or financial aid
You may want to consider applying for scholarships and/or financial aid. To apply for scholarships, check if any are available for the program or school you are enrolling in. You may be able to check for scholarships on your state OT association’s website. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be found here.
Prepare to start your OT program
Consider housing needs if necessary. Attend your program’s orientation. Be sure to complete any school requirements, such as an initial deposit or medical forms.
