Qualified applicants are sought from all racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and cultural groups in order to enhance the diversity of the class. The ideal candidates for the Doctor of Optometry degree should have demonstrated high scholastic ability, leadership, and a record of community and volunteer service. Applicants are judged on scholastic ability (demonstrated by college grades, high school class rank, and admission and aptitude test scores). Written and oral communication skills are extremely important. The applicants' personal characteristics are evaluated through character references, interviews, amount and kind of extracurricular and leadership activities, work experience, and the narrative explaining why they chose optometry as a career.

An admission day visit is arranged for those applicants with the greatest potential for success in completing the program at the School of Optometry.