Frequently Asked Questions
Study in UK (SI-UK) would like to offer some answers to our most frequently asked questions about studying Optometry in the UK. Read the answers below and if you have any more questions reach out to an SI-UK consultant, who will be able to help answer any further queries.
Can I study Optometry out of high school?
Yes, you can enrol into BSc (Hons) Optometry degrees in the UK direct from high school.
Learn more about studying Optometry at a UK university by speaking to one of SI-UK's consultants.
How long does it take to complete an Optometry degree?
An undergraduate Optometry degree is 3 years in duration, however, some universities offer an integrated Masters 4th year.
Will I qualify to practice in Canada/US with a BSc Optometry degree from the UK?
You will likely need to undertake a bridging programme at a university in Canada before you can practice in Canada with a UK degree. Speak to an SI-UK consultant for more information on what qualifications you would require.
How long does it take to complete an Optometry Masters degree?
It will typically take 1 year to complete a full-time Masters Optometry programme in the UK.
Do I need to do a postgraduate degree in Optometry to qualify as an Optometrist?
To become an optometrist, graduates of Optometry BSc programmes must undertake a pre-registration year of supervised, paid practice in either a registered optometric practice or in a hospital. During this year graduates are continually assessed and take professional examinations which lead to membership of the College of Optometrists and registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) as a registered optometrist.
In order to enter the pre-registration year, graduates must have a first or second-class degree in Optometry and have completed the Core Competency requirements stipulated by the GOC.
Speak to an SI-UK consultant to understand which UK universities are accredited by the General Optical Council.
What qualifications do I need to study Optometry in the UK?
UK entry criteria would typically be AAB in A-Level. Therefore, Canadian applicants would normally be required to achieve a minimum of 80% in 2 subjects and 75% in at least 4 subjects in their Secondary School Diploma level 12
Are universities in the UK accredited in Canada?
There are universities that offer Optometry whose degrees are accredited in Canada, speak to an SI-UK consultant to learn which universities have accredited Optometry degrees.
Will I need to do an interview for Optometry in the UK?
Some universities may require an interview to enter their Optometry course. Speak to one of our consultants for more information.
What career pathways are available to me with an Optometry degree?
With an Optometry degree, you will be able to pursue a career as a Pre-Reg Optometrist or Optometrist.
Can I enter the postgraduate Optometry programme with another undergraduate degree qualification?
It is unlikely that you will be able to enter any postgraduate Optometry programme without first completing an undergraduate Optometry degree.
How can SI-UK help me get into a Optometry school?
SI-UK offers free and paid application services to give you the best chance of securing an offer to a UK university. SI-UK will take you through the UK application process, help you to find the right accredited university for you, will help you to prepare for your interview and review your personal statement.
How much does an Optometry degree cost in the UK?
Tuition for Optometry undergraduate degrees for September 2022 cost approximately £15,300 per year*.
*Fees increase annually with inflation.
What scholarships are available for an Optometry degree in the UK?
Some Optometry schools offer a range of scholarships for international students, Ulster University offers students a guaranteed scholarship worth £2,000 applied as a tuition fee reduction off each year of study.
Speak to an SI-UK consultant to learn more about your scholarship options.
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