Ready to apply for a residency position? The steps are outlined below, and we encourage you to reach out to individual programs with any questions you might have.
Postgraduate residency training
Application Process
Specific residency programs may have specific application requirements and due dates, so make sure that you are familiar with those.
Many of the overall deadlines and important dates for residency applications are determined by the ORMatch, the national application processor for optometry residencies.
The following are general requirements for a residency. Specific residencies may have additional requirements; make sure that you're familiar with those.
- Doctor of Optometry degree and transcripts from an ACOE accredited school or college of optometry located within the United States or Puerto Rico prior to the start date of the residency program
- Competitive GPA
- Successful completion of National Board of Examiners in Optometry exam (your scores are obtained using your OE Tracker Number)
- Able to apply and receive an optometry license
- Completed Optometry Residency Match (ORM) application
- Cover letter and two or three letters of recommendation (see specific program guidelines)
ORMatch is the national application processor for optometry residency programs. You'll start your application process by creating an account with ORMatch and providing application information.
When submitting the initial application please include any NBEO scores that you have received. As you receive additional scores please let the coordinator know. Parts I and II can be reported after you submit the application.
While it is preferred that you provide Part III scores before the match date it is not required. However, if you are unable to attain a license due to inability to pass any part of the NBEO required for licensure in the state of your residency you will not be able to complete the residency. Each program coordinator will determine the timing per their state licensure requirements.
A site visit can provide you with a better idea of where you'll be working and those you'll be working with. As a result, you are encouraged to reach out to residency sites you're interested in to arrange a site visit to learn more.
The selection timeline will vary between programs. Please contact the program coordinator to learn more about the selection process.
Notification of initial matches will come from ORMatch. If successfully matched, the candidate will receive notification within 10 days of the release of the match results, and a contract within 30 days of the match results being released.
Contact us
For questions about IU School of Optometry residency programs, or about scheduling a site visit, contact:
Director of Residencies
317 278-1470
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