General Admissions & OTCAS General OTCAS 2023 Admissions Cycle

[OTCASaresofun]

EDIT MADE 1/22/23

Hello! I've seen some other general threads from previous cycles so I figured it might be nice to star one for the OTCAS 2022/2023 application cycle. I've applied for entry level OTD programs that start in the Summer/Fall for 2023. Below I've added some prompts so we can discuss the application process together and provide some answers/support.

(TEMPLATE TO COPY:

STATS:
Cumulative GPA:
Prerequisite GPA:
Observation Hours:
Work/Volunteer Experience:
Letters of Rec:
GRE:

APPLIED:
Interviews:
Acceptances:
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

MY INFO-
STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 2.99 (3.2 on my actual transcripts-not sure if this is taken into account?)
Prerequisite GPA: 3.92
Observation Hours: 82 (over various settings)*
Work/Volunteer Experience: UVM Medical Center (OP PT/OT Clinic-Therapy Support Specialist, 1 yr), MSK Kids (Care Coordinator, 2 yrs), Embrace Kids Foundation (1.5 yrs), Phi Sigma Sigma/RU4Kids (2yrs)
Letters of Rec: 1 OTRL/CHT, 1 Supervisor, 1 Professor (A&P II)
GRE: not taken/required

APPLIED: Boston University, Keck Graduate Institute, George Washington, USC, Johnson & Wales, Tufts

Interviews: Johnson & Wales, KGI, GW
Acceptances: Johnson & Wales, KGI, GW, USC
Waitlists: Tufts
Rejections: Boston University
Attending: GW

I've had a lot of trouble gaining observation hours since COVID-most places will not allow non-OT students to observe. Would love to hear about others' experience with this! Copy and paste the prompt if you'd like to participate! Good luck everybody

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[Neil_Dave]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.2
Prerequisite GPA: 3.8
Observation Hours: 65
Work/Volunteer Experience: Adaptive sports (3 years), hospice, pediatric outpatient, refugee resettlement.
Letters of Rec: employers x2, professor, a colleague in a related field to OT.
GRE: N/A

APPLIED: Pacific University, AT Still, UW-Madison, University of Vermont, University of New England, Boston University
Interviews: UW-Madison, UVM, UNE
Acceptances: University of Vermont, UNE, Pacific University, UW-Madison
Waitlists:
Rejections: Boston University
Attending: UW-Madison

 

[bunnyluver47]

Hello! I've seen some other general threads from previous cycles so I figured it might be nice to star one for the OTCAS 2022/2023 application cycle. I've applied for entry level OTD programs that start in the Summer/Fall for 2023. Below I've added some prompts so we can discuss the application process together and provide some answers/support.

(TEMPLATE TO COPY:

STATS:
Cumulative GPA:
Prerequisite GPA:
Observation Hours:
Work/Volunteer Experience:
Letters of Rec:
GRE:

APPLIED:
Interviews:
Acceptances:
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

MY INFO-
STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 2.99 (3.2 on my actual transcripts-not sure if this is taken into account?)
Prerequisite GPA: 3.92
Observation Hours: 82 (over various settings)*
Work/Volunteer Experience: UVM Medical Center (OP PT/OT Clinic-Therapy Support Specialist, 1 yr), MSK Kids (Care Coordinator, 2 yrs), Embrace Kids Foundation (1.5 yrs), Phi Sigma Sigma/RU4Kids (2yrs)
Letters of Rec: 1 OTRL/CHT, 1 Supervisor, 1 Professor (A&P II)
GRE: not taken/required

APPLIED: Boston University, Keck Graduate Institute, George Washington, USC, Johnson & Wales, Tufts
Interviews: pending
Acceptances: pending
Waitlists: pending
Rejections: pending

I've had a lot of trouble gaining observation hours since COVID-most places will not allow non-OT students to observe. Would love to hear about others' experience with this! Copy and paste the prompt if you'd like to participate! Good luck everybody

Hey. Do you have any safety schools just incase? Just wanted to ask because some schools may not let you continue the admissions process with under a 3.0. Especially some of the top schools such as BU, GW, USC, and tufts. Maybe apply to safety schools which are lower ranked because your gpa is on the lower end? And those are the top OT programs?

Just giving advice because I would want someone to give me that advice too best of luck and I hope whatever happens you are happy!

 

[Neil_Dave]

Hey. Do you have any safety schools just incase? Just wanted to ask because some schools may not let you continue the admissions process with under a 3.0. Especially some of the top schools such as BU, GW, USC, and tufts. Maybe apply to safety schools which are lower ranked because your gpa is on the lower end? And those are the top OT programs?

Just giving advice because I would want someone to give me that advice too best of luck and I hope whatever happens you are happy!

Hello! I've seen some other general threads from previous cycles so I figured it might be nice to star one for the OTCAS 2022/2023 application cycle. I've applied for entry level OTD programs that start in the Summer/Fall for 2023. Below I've added some prompts so we can discuss the application process together and provide some answers/support.

(TEMPLATE TO COPY:

STATS:
Cumulative GPA:
Prerequisite GPA:
Observation Hours:
Work/Volunteer Experience:
Letters of Rec:
GRE:

APPLIED:
Interviews:
Acceptances:
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

MY INFO-
STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 2.99 (3.2 on my actual transcripts-not sure if this is taken into account?)
Prerequisite GPA: 3.92
Observation Hours: 82 (over various settings)*
Work/Volunteer Experience: UVM Medical Center (OP PT/OT Clinic-Therapy Support Specialist, 1 yr), MSK Kids (Care Coordinator, 2 yrs), Embrace Kids Foundation (1.5 yrs), Phi Sigma Sigma/RU4Kids (2yrs)
Letters of Rec: 1 OTRL/CHT, 1 Supervisor, 1 Professor (A&P II)
GRE: not taken/required

APPLIED: Boston University, Keck Graduate Institute, George Washington, USC, Johnson & Wales, Tufts
Interviews: pending
Acceptances: pending
Waitlists: pending
Rejections: pending

I've had a lot of trouble gaining observation hours since COVID-most places will not allow non-OT students to observe. Would love to hear about others' experience with this! Copy and paste the prompt if you'd like to participate! Good luck everybody

Having gained experience from UVM what was your reasoning for not applying?

 

[OTCASaresofun]

Having gained experience from UVM what was your reasoning for not applying?

Hi there! Thanks for your question. Having been in the area a couple years now I don’t see much opportunity around. There are many private practices, but there’s only 1 major hospital in the state. I’m also mostly interested in pediatrics which is not readily available in the outpatient setting for most in the state (there is only 1 pediatric outpatient rehab center). It has more to do with following school than the school itself. I have a lot of faith the program at UVM will be great.

 

[OTCASaresofun]

Hey. Do you have any safety schools just incase? Just wanted to ask because some schools may not let you continue the admissions process with under a 3.0. Especially some of the top schools such as BU, GW, USC, and tufts. Maybe apply to safety schools which are lower ranked because your gpa is on the lower end? And those are the top OT programs?

Just giving advice because I would want someone to give me that advice too best of luck and I hope whatever happens you are happy!

Hey. Do you have any safety schools just incase? Just wanted to ask because some schools may not let you continue the admissions process with under a 3.0. Especially some of the top schools such as BU, GW, USC, and tufts. Maybe apply to safety schools which are lower ranked because your gpa is on the lower end? And those are the top OT programs?

Just giving advice because I would want someone to give me that advice too best of luck and I hope whatever happens you are happy!

Hi! My safety schools are GW (since it’s a rather new program that is not yet accredited), Johnson & Wales, and KGI. I Currently have interviews for KGI and Johnson and Wales so fingers crossed that goes well!

I have been pretty concerned about my undergrad GPA, but am hoping that schools can see that I’m experienced in healthcare and since my prerequisite GPA is almost a 4.0 that the low GPA had more to do with an unsure 18 year old rather than a poorly motivated student 😁 I’m really passionate about OT so I’m excited to show that to the schools who are willing to get to know me.

 

[dreamingof_ftcollins]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.2
Prerequisite GPA: 3.8
Observation Hours: 65
Work/Volunteer Experience: Adaptive sports (3 years), hospice, pediatric outpatient, refugee resettlement.
Letters of Rec: employers x2, professor, a colleague in a related field to OT.
GRE: N/A

APPLIED: Pacific University, AT Still, UW-Madison, University of Vermont, University of New England, Boston University
Interviews: UW-Madison, UVM, UNE
Acceptances: University of Vermont
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

As you can see, I've applied a wide range in schools in size, price, rigor, stature, private/public, research, and location. A few days ago, I received my acceptance letter from UVM! I'm flabbergasted by the fact that any program will have me! As a non-traditional student with a bumpy academic history, I was unsure of my candidacy.

Does anyone have a status on the inaugural semester over at UVM? How's it going? I am slightly unsure about entering a brand-new program. Moreover, they want me to commit by Nov 11th for the following fall! Is this standard practice? Am I being scammed? I doubt that I will hear from any programs until at least the end of November. How am I to the way my options, detail a budget, and visit schools? I feel pressured to commit because, as they say, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

If anyone else is experiencing a similar dilemma, I'd love to hear about it.

Hi! I also applied to UW-Madison! I was wondering when you submitted your application and when you heard back about the interview? Hoping to hear back soon, I submitted 10/7/22 so it will probably be a while for me.

 

[futureOT_!!]

Hi! My safety schools are GW (since it’s a rather new program that is not yet accredited), Johnson & Wales, and KGI. I Currently have interviews for KGI and Johnson and Wales so fingers crossed that goes well!

I have been pretty concerned about my undergrad GPA, but am hoping that schools can see that I’m experienced in healthcare and since my prerequisite GPA is almost a 4.0 that the low GPA had more to do with an unsure 18 year old rather than a poorly motivated student 😁 I’m really passionate about OT so I’m excited to show that to the schools who are willing to get to know me.

Hello!!
When did you receive your interview at Johnson & Wales? And when did you submit your application?

 

[Neil_Dave]

Hi there! Thanks for your question. Having been in the area a couple years now I don’t see much opportunity around. There are many private practices, but there’s only 1 major hospital in the state. I’m also mostly interested in pediatrics which is not readily available in the outpatient setting for most in the state (there is only 1 pediatric outpatient rehab center). It has more to do with following school than the school itself. I have a lot of faith the program at UVM will be great.

Thank you for your response. That makes a lot of sense and somewhat quells my fears. I am also interested in pediatric, well primarily developmental occupational therapy. However, I am very interested in attention and memory and would not mind working in geriatrics.

Also, I've just been invited to interview at BU! Any insights comparing programs?

 

[Neil_Dave]

Hi! I also applied to UW-Madison! I was wondering when you submitted your application and when you heard back about the interview? Hoping to hear back soon, I submitted 10/7/22 so it will probably be a while for me.

Hey there! I received an invitation to interview a few weeks ago. I believe everyone who applied is invited to complete a Kira. I would reach out if you haven't received a link.

 

[OTCASaresofun]

Hello!!
When did you receive your interview at Johnson & Wales? And when did you submit your application?

Hi!

The interview was extended to me late September and I submitted my application back in August.

 

[OTCASaresofun]

Thank you for your response. That makes a lot of sense and somewhat quells my fears. I am also interested in pediatric, well primarily developmental occupational therapy. However, I am very interested in attention and memory and would not mind working in geriatrics.

Also, I've just been invited to interview at BU! Any insights comparing programs?

I hear you! Development is all around fascinating to me. And that’s amazing to hear! Congrats on your interview that’s huge news I unfortunately don’t have much insight into the UVM program itself, so not quite sure how to compare. I know a lot of the people involved are very passionate and hard workers but that’s kind of it. I hope your interview goes well!

 

[otdletmeinpls12]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.71
Prerequisite GPA: 3.6ish (depends on school)
Observation Hours: 40 peds
Work/Volunteer Experience:
- 1 semester study abroad researching for WHO in Australia
- 3 years in kinesiology frat, 1 as treasurer 0.5 as DEI committee
- 3 years homelessness student org
- 3 years kinesiology student ambassadors
- 1 year club weightlifting
- 2 years working barista job
- 6 months intergroup relations student recruitment, 1 year intergroup dialogue facilitator
- 1 summer freshman orientation leader
- 1 summer research assistant (data organization)
- 1 semester TA (exercise, nutrition & weight control)

Letters of Rec: 1 professor, 1 minor (community action & social change) advisor, 1 OT, 1 employer (intergroup relations)
GRE:n/a

APPLIED: Ohio state, Colorado state, GW, Duke, UVM, Toledo, Pitt
Interviews: ohio state (12/10) UVM (kira due 11/29), Duke (11/29), GW (12/6, didn’t go)
Acceptances: UVM (12/4), Ohio State (12/17), Pitt, CSU
Waitlists: Duke (12/16)
Attending: OSU!

 

[bunnyluver47]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.71
Prerequisite GPA: 3.6ish (depends on school)
Observation Hours: 40 peds
Work/Volunteer Experience:
- 1 semester study abroad researching for WHO in Australia
- 3 years in kinesiology frat, 1 as treasurer 0.5 as DEI committee
- 3 years homelessness student org
- 3 years kinesiology student ambassadors
- 1 year club weightlifting
- 2 years working barista job
- 6 months intergroup relations student recruitment, 1 year intergroup dialogue facilitator
- 1 summer freshman orientation leader
- 1 summer research assistant (data organization)
- 1 semester TA (exercise, nutrition & weight control)

Letters of Rec: 1 professor, 1 minor (community action & social change) advisor, 1 OT, 1 employer (intergroup relations)
GRE:n/a

APPLIED: Ohio state, Colorado state, GW, Duke, UVM, Toledo, Pitt, Boston
Interviews:
Acceptances:
Waitlists:
Rejections:

i am very scared <3

That’s so cool your school had a frat like that

 

[rjjcd123]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.75
Prerequisite GPA: 3.67
Observation Hours: 250 hours outpatient as an paid rehabilitation aide (mainly with PTs), 8 hours inpatient on the oncology floor of a hospital, 12 hours at a nursing home
Work/Volunteer Experience: Worked as a server at the nursing home, worked as an aide, and volunteered at soup kitchens since freshman year of high school. I am also an intern for my college health and wellness department.
Letters of Rec: 1 from an OT, 1 from my internship supervisor, 1 from my former boss who is a PT, 1 professor
GRE: Not required

APPLIED: TJU, Rutgers, Kean, Monmouth, George Washington, Saint Joseph's, and Temple (applied all around October 7th)
Interviews: Temple (12/8)- withdrew app, Monmouth (10/29), GWU (11/11)
Acceptances: Monmouth, SJU, GWU, TJU
Waitlists: Pending
Rejections:

Good luck everyone!

 

[lilchipmunk19]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.24-3.3
Prerequisite GPA: varies
Observation Hours: 115 (40 from peds, 45 from hand therapy, 40 from geriatric)
Work/Volunteer Experience:
-rehab tech 2x at diff snfs
-note taker @ student disability services
-worked at a country club w kids as an attendant
- mentor at college for students w/ intellectual and developmental disabilities
- first-year experience peer mentor
- began a club/organization for mental health
-a member of OT/PT society
-secretary of best buddies
-member of a sorority
Letters of Rec: 2 OT's, 2 Professors
GRE: lets not go there

APPLIED:Barry U, FIU, TWU-Houston, GW, WUSTL, Advent Health, NYIT, USC and applied to Duke on (01/15)

Interviews: WUSTL, Barry U (11/8), TWU-Houston (11/19), GW (11/22), NYIT (01/10) Advent Health (02/24), FIU (02/18)

Acceptances: Barry U (11/20), NYIT (01/13)

Waitlists: TWU-Houston (12/9), WUSTL (01/17), USC (01/31)

Rejections: WUSTL (03/01)

Good luck all <3

 

[flowergirl98]

Edited 11/12
STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.3
Prerequisite GPA: depending on program
Observation Hours: 600-700+ I currently work as an aide and did a lot of observation as a hospital volunteer
Work/Volunteer:
-Rehab aide working with OT's in hand therapy clinics and pediatrics
-child care worker (3 years), behavior tech (6 months)
-children's hospital volunteer (~560)
-lots of involvement with the AAPI community, Dance Marathon
-hospital intern (240 hours),
-held various leadership roles including in the AAPI community, co-founded and was the vice president of my Pre-OT organization and hold a position in my hospital internship.
Letters of Rec: 2 OTR/Ls, 1 supervisor from my hospital internship, 1 professor from my grad certificate class
GRE: N/A

APPLIED: USC, Loma Linda, Dominican, Samuel Merritt, Boston U
Interviews: Loma Linda (10/12), Dominican University (11/12), Samuel Merritt (12/3)
Acceptances: Loma Linda (11/11)
Waitlists:
Rejections:

Best of luck everyone!

 

[excitedforot]

Hi Everyone!! Here are my stats. I have not finished applying to all of the schools but will hopefully send them out soon! Yay!
STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.8
Prerequisite GPA: 3.9-4.0
Observation Hours: 16 from one setting, 62 completed in another with a total of 112 expected by end of semester.
Work/Volunteer Experience: Infant/Toddler Teacher, Infant/Toddler TA, Child Lab Fieldwork Student in Infant Center, Early Intervention Fieldwork Intern. President of Pre-OT Society at my school, re-established the chapter. Member of Pi Beta Phi and was Director of Recruitment Events 2022.
Letters of Rec: 1 Professor/ECD Program Head, 1 Professor/Child Lab Director, 1 Head Teacher at the Childcare Center I work
GRE: not taking

APPLIED: University of Southern California, University of Florida, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, BU?
Interviews:
Acceptances: University of Sydney (conditional pending graduation)
Waitlists:
Rejections:

 

[jessj915]

Hi super stoked for this, can’t wait to hear where everyone gets accepted!

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.82
Prerequisite GPA: 4.0
Observation Hours: 40 at a hospital (inpatient and outpatient), and 11 months of observing and working under an OTR
Work/Volunteer Experience:
Rehab tech at an outpatient clinic (upper to lower extremity conditions) from 01/2022- present
TA for one semester for a Health and Wellness course
Research assistant in a bilingual child development lab 08/2021- present
VP of a pre- OT organization 2021
Treasurer of a rehabilitation organization 2021
Letters of Rec: 1 research mentor professor, 1 COTA, 1 OTR, still waiting on a reply from a professor I was a TA for
GRE: Not needed

APPLIED: (still applying)
Radford, St. Augustine, Eastern Washington University, Boston University, University of Saint Mary, GWU, ATSU, Methodist University

Interviews: ATSU, Radford, UVM, Methodist
Acceptances: Radford, UVM
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

 

[l2001]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.89
Prerequisite GPA: 3.9-4.0
Observation Hours: 10 hours with OTs at rehabilitation hospital, 30 hours with OT at school for students with disabilities, 20 hours with OTs at children's rehabilitation hospital, 60 hours with OTs at outpatient clinic, 4 hours with OT at nursing home,
Work/Volunteer Experience: Sorority member/director of academic success, rehab tech at outpatient OT clinic (6 months), Pre OT club member, Paraeducator at school for kids with disabilities (SCI and SXI), Activities Assistant at nursing home, camp counselor at camp for kids with disabilities, caregiver for many kids with disabilities, volunteer at overnight respite camp for adults and children with disabilities, volunteer at boys and girls club
Letters of Rec: 2 OTs, 1 professor
GRE: N/A

APPLIED: Boston University, University of Pittsburgh, Ohio State University, MGH
Interviews: BU, MGH, OSU
Acceptances: MGH, OSU, Pitt
Waitlists: BU
Rejections:

 

[FutureOTMax]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.1
Prerequisite GPA: roughly 3.0
Observation Hours: 6 hours completed, 40+ planned
Work/Volunteer Experience: RBT, neurodivergent camper 1on1 (assisted level 2 fieldwork OT students at the camp when they did OT with my camper), plenty of leadership experience through work in my political party
Letters of Rec: 3 from BCBAs, 1 from a veterinarian, 1 from a professor
GRE: 300 even, didn't send scores

APPLIED (11/7) : St. Joeseph's (MSOT) , Salus (MSOT), Temple, Jefferson, Widener, Stockton (MSOT)
Interviews: Salus (Interview Scheduled 11/18, interviewed 12/02), Widener (interviewed 12/13), Temple (interviewed 2/22)
Acceptances: Widener (12/16), Temple (2/24), Jefferson (5/4)
Waitlists:
Rejections: St. Joeseph's, Salus, Stockton
Attending: Widener

 

[beginning1299]

Degree: Bachelors of Arts in Health Science with a concentration in women's health
GPA: 2.7
Pre-req GPA: 3.0
Fieldwork Hours: 40 (20 in pediatrics another 20 in nursing/rehab facility)
Extracurriculars/Volunteer: Worship Leader at Church, Organized mission trip in Guatemala in 2019
Work: Currently a medical assistant a podiatrist's office, former substitute teacher as well as former sales associate at a college bookstore
GRE: Haven't taken
Letters of Req: 1 Podiatrist, 2 OTRs, 1 Pastor
Applying to: Cedar Crest College, Briar Cliff University, Advent Health University, Boston University, Colorado State University, Des Moines University, Drake University, Hofstra University, Messiah University, University of Florida, University of Mary, Midwestern University Downers Grove, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Widener University, Creighton University
Interviews: Cedar Crest College (10/6), Briar Cliff (11/18) Widener University (12/13)
Rejections: Messiah University (GPA) ,Boston University, Midwestern University Downers Grove (GPA), Colorado State University (Did not finish all 3 applications), University of Florida, University of Nebraska Medical Center (GPA)
Acceptances: Cedar Crest College (10/14) Widener University, Briar Cliff University
Waitlist: Creighton University (Selected as Alternate)

Good luck everyone!

 

[lmerech]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.38 at current university, 3.25 OTCAS
Prerequisite GPA: 3.0-3.2
Observation Hours: 90 hours in a school based setting, 160 in an outpatient clinic
Work/Volunteer Experience: NREMT-B, data collector, special education student aide through middle and high school, general chemistry TA
Letters of Rec: 2 college professors, 2 OT’s
GRE: did not have to take

APPLIED: Lincoln Memorial University, Murphy Deming, East Tennessee State University, Shenandoah, Wingate, Methodist University, Milligan University, Presbyterian University
Interviews: Invited to an interview to all, however only accepted the interview from LMU, ETSU, and Murphy Deming
Acceptances: LMU, Murphy Deming
Waitlists: Wingate (deferred)
Rejections: none

I was very nervous about being accepted to an OTD program because my GPA was lower on OTCAS. I had no idea that OTCAS would take into account the classes I took in high school through DUAL enrollment. However, good news is I have been accepted to the schools I interviewed at!
For those who are in the same boat as me, I think having 250 hours of observation and being an NREMT really helped my application stand out!
Good luck to all who are in this application cycle

 

[wanttobeot16]

STATS:
Degree: Villanova University, Major in Psychology Minor in Education
Cumulative GPA: 3.4
Prerequisite GPA: varies but generally 3.4-3.6
Observation Hours: 81 (pediatric, SNF, & online module)
Work/Volunteer Experience: Division 1 Student Athlete, Member of Best Buddies, Currently Shift Supervisor at Bitty & Beau's Coffee (employs individuals with intellectual disabilities), Volunteer at Special Olympics for 4 years, OT Chair of Speech, Physical, and Occupational Therapy Club, Member of One Love, coach at a company that teaches 12 months-8 years old to play sports, coach at college sports camp for 4 summers
Letters of Rec: 2 professors, 1 OT
Other: CPR Certified
GRE:

I still have two prerequisites to take in the spring, which many of the universities have said is okay as long as they are complete prior to program start date. I am nervous, however, that this will lower my chances of being accepted. has anyone had experience with this?

APPLIED: St. Augustine (FL campus MOT), Gannon University, Johnson & Wales, Belmont, Jacksonville University, Thomas Jefferson
Interviews: Belmont (2/10), Gannon (1/27), JWU (1/20), Jacksonville (declined interview)
Acceptances: USAHS (St. Augustine), JWU (1/27), Gannon (2/1), Thomas Jefferson (2/7)
Waitlists:
Rejections:

Attending: Gannon University Ruskin, FL

 

[aloves]

STATS:
Degree: Psychology (B.S.) with a concentration in Health Psychology
Cumulative GPA: 3.38 (but on OTCAS 3.1)
Prerequisite GPA: 3.4-3.7 (depends on the school)
Observation Hours: 142 total (52 outpatient pediatrics, 9 outpatient orthopedic clinic, 42 hand therapy, 36 outpatient private business)
Work/Volunteer Experience: Cashier at Chick-fil-A, Barista at Sharetea, Tutor for children
Extracurriculars: Multicultural Association for Pre-Health Students (Secretary), Cru (religious organization)
Letters of Rec: 1 Professor, 2 OTR/L
GRE: N/A (not required so I did not take it)

APPLIED: Shenandoah University (MSOT), Virginia Commonwealth University, Radford University, Mary Baldwin University (Murphy Deming), Emory & Henry College
Interviews: Shenandoah University (11/30), Mary Baldwin University/Murphy Deming (12/2), Emory & Henry (12/3), VCU (1/20- but declined due to acceptance), Radford University (January interview- declined due to other acceptance)
Acceptances: Shenandoah University (12/1), Emory & Henry (12/8)
Waitlists: Mary Baldwin University/Murphy Deming
Rejections: 0

I was afraid I would not get in after seeing my GPA was lower on OTCAS, so I want to let anyone out there know that if you have a low GPA then you can make up for it by gaining more shadowing experiences! If you are confident and prepared for the interviews, then you will have a good chance of being accepted. Good luck everyone!!

 

[OTdesigncat]

Hello Everyone,
Did anyone apply LLU? or heard back from LLU?

 

[flowergirl98]

Hello Everyone,
Did anyone apply LLU? or heard back from LLU?

Yes! I applied to LLU and got accepted!

 

[OTtobehopefully]

Hi, all!

Degree: BS in Psychology, certificate in American Sign Language
GPA: 3.73
Pre-req GPA: 3.6 - 4.0, depending on the school
Shadowing Hours: ~70 between three settings: orthotics & prosthetics, outpatient hand therapy, and a hippotherapy facility
Extracurriculars/Volunteer: conducted psych research for a semester in undergrad, member of the Greater St. Louis Association for the Deaf, Deaf Communication Studies club member, Support Service Provider for the DeafBlind, completed a Certified Nursing Assistant program, studied abroad in Italy, volunteered at an organic farm, environment & sustainability club officer, and I currently volunteer 3 hours weekly doing equine-assisted therapy with children with disabilities
Work: worked at an after-school art/science program for an elementary school, Behavior Technician at an autism clinic, billing/administrative assistant at an urgent care, worked summers in the swimming pool industry for 8 years & currently employed by PoolCorp
GRE: Not required
Letters of Req: 1 OT, 1 professor (psychologist), and my undergrad advisor (psychologist who is now the dean of Health Sciences)
Applying to: WashU, Maryville, Cox College in Missouri, Emory & Henry OTD, & Radford (both locations) in Virginia, Brenau Gainesville, Tennessee Wesleyan, and Lenoir Rhyne (NC & SC locations).

Interviews: WUSTL, Brenau (11/4), Emory & Henry (1/24), Radford (12/2), Cox College (1/17)
Accepted: Maryville (12/5), Radford (12/5), Brenau (1/4)
Waitlisted:
Rejected:

 

[cmasker16]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.75
Prerequisite GPA: 3.67
Observation Hours: 250 hours outpatient as an paid rehabilitation aide (mainly with PTs), 8 hours inpatient on the oncology floor of a hospital, 12 hours at a nursing home
Work/Volunteer Experience: Worked as a server at the nursing home, worked as an aide, and volunteered at soup kitchens since freshman year of high school. I am also an intern for my college health and wellness department going on 1.5 years.
Letters of Rec: 1 from an OT, 1 from my internship supervisor, 1 from my former boss who is a PT, 1 professor
GRE: Not required for any program

APPLIED: TJU, Rutgers, Kean, Monmouth, George Washington, Saint Joseph's, and Temple (applied all around October 7th)
Interviews: Temple scheduled (12/8), Monmouth (10/29), GWU (11/11)
Acceptances: Monmouth, SJU, GWU
Waitlists: Pending
Rejections:

Good luck everyone!

Hi! I also applied to Rutgers. Did you hear back from them yet & if so, how long after you applied?

 

[OTdesigncat]

Yes! I applied to LLU and got accepted!

Congratulations!! Will you enroll? I got accepted too and I confirmed the spot already. I am hoping to find future study buddies and perhaps can be friend. Let me know if you are down for this

 

[flowergirl98]

Congratulations!! Will you enroll? I got accepted too and I confirmed the spot already. I am hoping to find future study buddies and perhaps can be friend. Let me know if you are down for this

I will message you directly!

 

[OTtobehopefully]

STATS:
Degree: Psychology (B.S.) with a concentration in Health Psychology
Cumulative GPA: 3.38 (but on OTCAS 3.1)
Prerequisite GPA: 3.4-3.7 (depends on the school)
Observation Hours: 142 total (52 outpatient pediatrics, 9 outpatient orthopedic clinic, 42 hand therapy, 36 outpatient private business)
Work/Volunteer Experience: Cashier at Chick-fil-A, Barista at Sharetea, Tutor for children
Extracurriculars: Multicultural Association for Pre-Health Students (Secretary), Cru (religious organization)
Letters of Rec: 1 Professor, 2 OTR/L
GRE: N/A (not required so I did not take it)

APPLIED: Shenandoah University (MSOT), Virginia Commonwealth University, Radford University, Mary Baldwin University (Murphy Deming), Emory & Henry College
Interviews: Shenandoah University (11/30), Mary Baldwin University/Murphy Deming (12/2), Emory & Henry (12/3), VCU (1/20- but declined due to acceptance)
Acceptances: Shenandoah University (12/1)
Waitlists: pending
Rejections: pending

I was afraid I would not get in after seeing my GPA was lower on OTCAS, so I want to let anyone out there know that if you have a low GPA then you can make up for it by gaining more shadowing experiences! If you are confident and prepared for the interviews, then you will have a good chance of being accepted. Good luck everyone!!

Hi!! Congrats on your acceptance! I was curious if you attended your interview with Emory & Henry, and if so, would you mind sharing how it went? I have one scheduled there in January.

 

[rjjcd123]

Hi! I also applied to Rutgers. Did you hear back from them yet & if so, how long after you applied?

Hey I haven’t heard anything back, not even an application review in process update. Have you heard anything?

 

[OTApplying]

Congratulations!! Will you enroll? I got accepted too and I confirmed the spot already. I am hoping to find future study buddies and perhaps can be friend. Let me know if you are down for this

I have been fortunate to get into a couple of OT schools in the last week. Both are decent options, but out of state (expensive!) and still waiting for in-state schools. I have an interview with one in-state school in a couple of weeks, but it is after the deadline to accept with a deposit ($500) for the two schools I got into already. If I put a deposit for one of those two schools and then if I get into an in-state school can I go in-state (realize I will lose the deposit to the other school) or I am locked into attending the school I put the first deposit on?

 

[FlowerGirl2000]

I have been fortunate to get into a couple of OT schools in the last week. Both are decent options, but out of state (expensive!) and still waiting for in-state schools. I have an interview with one in-state school in a couple of weeks, but it is after the deadline to accept with a deposit ($500) for the two schools I got into already. If I put a deposit for one of those two schools and then if I get into an in-state school can I go in-state (realize I will lose the deposit to the other school) or I am locked into attending the school I put the first deposit on?

After you put a deposit down for a school, you can withdrawal your admission as long as its like a month or so before starting date (schools vary on this). I put a deposit down for a school but then rescinded it a month later to go to a different program and got a partial refund! I actually asked my advisor about this at my undergrad and he confirmed that people do this often!

 

[OTdesigncat]

I have been fortunate to get into a couple of OT schools in the last week. Both are decent options, but out of state (expensive!) and still waiting for in-state schools. I have an interview with one in-state school in a couple of weeks, but it is after the deadline to accept with a deposit ($500) for the two schools I got into already. If I put a deposit for one of those two schools and then if I get into an in-state school can I go in-state (realize I will lose the deposit to the other school) or I am locked into attending the school I put the first deposit on?

you can put the deposit to secure the spot but you still can change your plan after. will lose 500

 

[cmasker16]

Hey I haven’t heard anything back, not even an application review in process update. Have you heard anything?

I only got an email right after I submitted saying they have received it. I joined a virtual open house 2 days after submitting and they said it will take about 4 weeks to review. I joined another one that was 5 weeks after I submitted and they said they’re waiting for clusters of applications so they have other people to compare to and that it could take until February 😫

 

[Latanasia Dockery]

Hi super stoked for this, can’t wait to hear where everyone gets accepted!

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.82
Prerequisite GPA: 4.0
Observation Hours: 40 at a hospital (inpatient and outpatient), and 11 months of observing and working under an OTR
Work/Volunteer Experience:
Rehab tech at an outpatient clinic (upper to lower extremity conditions) from 01/2022- present
TA for one semester for a Health and Wellness course
Research assistant in a bilingual child development lab 08/2021- present
VP of a pre- OT organization 2021
Treasurer of a rehabilitation organization 2021
Letters of Rec: 1 research mentor professor, 1 COTA, 1 OTR, still waiting on a reply from a professor I was a TA for
GRE: Not needed

APPLIED: (still applying)
Radford, St. Augustine, Eastern Washington University, Boston University, University of Saint Mary, GWU, ATSU, Methodist University

Interviews: ATSU, Radford, UVM, Methodist
Acceptances: Radford, UVM
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

Have you heard back from Methodist and when was your interview?

 

[Latanasia Dockery]

Hi super stoked for this, can’t wait to hear where everyone gets accepted!

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.82
Prerequisite GPA: 4.0
Observation Hours: 40 at a hospital (inpatient and outpatient), and 11 months of observing and working under an OTR
Work/Volunteer Experience:
Rehab tech at an outpatient clinic (upper to lower extremity conditions) from 01/2022- present
TA for one semester for a Health and Wellness course
Research assistant in a bilingual child development lab 08/2021- present
VP of a pre- OT organization 2021
Treasurer of a rehabilitation organization 2021
Letters of Rec: 1 research mentor professor, 1 COTA, 1 OTR, still waiting on a reply from a professor I was a TA for
GRE: Not needed

APPLIED: (still applying)
Radford, St. Augustine, Eastern Washington University, Boston University, University of Saint Mary, GWU, ATSU, Methodist University

Interviews: ATSU, Radford, UVM, Methodist
Acceptances: Radford, UVM
Waitlists:
Rejections: )

Have you heard anything back from Methodist

 

[jessj915]

Have you heard anything back from Methodist

yes I applied on 12/2 and received an interview email 12/6 and my interview will be on the 21st so still a ways to go

 

[Latanasia Dockery]

Ok

yes I applied on 12/2 and received an interview email 12/6 and my interview will be on the 21st so still a ways to go

ok I just had my interview on Saturday the 10th if you want to know about it?

 

[aloves]

Hi!! Congrats on your acceptance! I was curious if you attended your interview with Emory & Henry, and if so, would you mind sharing how it went? I have one scheduled there in January.

Hi, Yes I attended my interview with Emory & Henry and got accepted (did not choose to go there though)! I hope you see this before your interview. The initial interview is conducted by a faculty member and a current student. The women were both nice and friendly and made me feel at ease when I was interviewing. I think they made me feel the most comfortable out of the three interviews I attended! There is also a writing prompt where they have you respond to a question that asks you to define a topic and give an example from your life. After that, they had some students and a faculty member talk about SOTA and COTAD. Then, there was a group activity with a few other applicants where you play a game that relates to Occupational Therapy which was fun. (Ultimately didn't choose to go due to location, but they definitely seem to have a great program and friendly/welcoming staff and students.)

 

[FutureOTMax]

Degree: Bachelors of Arts in Health Science with a concentration in women's health
GPA: 2.7
Pre-req GPA: 3.0
Fieldwork Hours: 40 (20 in pediatrics another 20 in nursing/rehab facility)
Extracurriculars/Volunteer: Worship Leader at Church, Organized mission trip in Guatemala in 2019
Work: Currently a medical assistant a podiatrist's office, former substitute teacher as well as former sales associate at a college bookstore
GRE: Haven't taken
Letters of Req: 1 Podiatrist, 2 OTRs, 1 Pastor
Applying to: Cedar Crest College, Briar Cliff University, Advent Health University, Boston University, Colorado State University, Des Moines University, Drake University, Hofstra University, Messiah University,University of Florida, University of Mary, Midwestern University Downers Grove, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Widener University, Creighton University
Interviews: Cedar Crest College (10/6), Briar Cliff (11/18) Widener University (12/13)
Rejections: Messiah University (GPA) ,Boston University
Acceptances: Cedar Crest College (10/14) Widener University, Briar Cliff University
Waitlist:

Good luck everyone!

Hey! I think we interviewed together for Widener, I interviewed that same day, glad to see we both got accepted! Did you decide where you are going yet? I am still waiting to hear back from a lot of my schools.

 

[La'Tanasia Dockery]

STATS:
Cumulative GPA: 3.38 at current university, 3.25 OTCAS
Prerequisite GPA: 3.0-3.2
Observation Hours: 90 hours in a school based setting, 160 in an outpatient clinic
Work/Volunteer Experience: NREMT-B, data collector, special education student aide through middle and high school, general chemistry TA
Letters of Rec: 2 college professors, 2 OT’s
GRE: did not have to take

APPLIED: Lincoln Memorial University, Murphy Deming, East Tennessee State University, Shenandoah, Wingate, Methodist University, Milligan University, Presbyterian University
Interviews: Invited to an interview to all, however only accepted the interview from LMU, ETSU, and Murphy Deming
Acceptances: LMU, Murphy Deming
Waitlists: Wingate (deferred)
Rejections: none

I was very nervous about being accepted to an OTD program because my GPA was lower on OTCAS. I had no idea that OTCAS would take into account the classes I took in high school through DUAL enrollment. However, good news is I have been accepted to the schools I interviewed at!
For those who are in the same boat as me, I think having 250 hours of observation and being an NREMT really helped my application stand out!
Good luck to all who are in this application cycle

I have applied to methodist did the interview and was waitlisted, have you heard anything back?

 

[beginning1299]

Hey! I think we interviewed together for Widener, I interviewed that same day, glad to see we both got accepted! Did you decide where you are going yet? I am still waiting to hear back from a lot of my schools.

I decided to commit to Briar Cliff! Congrats!