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I want to go into occupational therapy. I am wondering the best way to apply and get into occupational therapy programs?

Know there is prerequisites, but how can I apply to multiple programs?

occupational-therapy
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Patricia’s Answer

Dear Emillie,

Without knowing where you are in the educational process, it is difficult to give you a concrete answer. I agree with the others about the need to do research about different schools and think it is wise to narrow your choices. Many of the core prerequisites are similar so it is best to start with those. In my experience, students who are most successful in getting into and graduating from OT school have a strong foundation in the sciences, specifically anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. I would also encourage you to do some volunteer work allowing you to observe Occupational Therapists in action. Most schools require direct observation hours and it will help you solidify your desire to be an OT. It is a great career and I have loved it for over 27 years. Best of luck to you.
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Stephanie’s Answer

OT is a great field! I still love it after almost 20 years. To apply to multiple programs you want to first choose which ones you want to apply to. Each have different requirements. Schools also cost different amounts. Some schools offer either a master’s or clinical doctorate and some offer both. Look into which might be the best for you. From there, I would choose your top two or three and do the application. There is no way to do one application for multiple programs. Many (likely all) will require a fee to apply as well. If you have not started college yet, I would encourage you to look at attending a school that has an OT program you think you want to apply to. I’ve found that schools often favor students from their own school above outside applicants. Best of luck!
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Destinee’s Answer

Hey this is a nice choice. I would recommend researching occupational therapy programs in your area. I would assume you would have to meet a few requirements like education, some programs may require a degree. Other requirements like experience and exams. I know a lot of programs require one to pass a test to move forward. As far as experience, look into getting a certificate related to therapy.. something like a 4 week program to get your feet wet. I hope I was able to help.
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Traci’s Answer

I agree with Stephanie! There is no“one way” to apply to OT schools. To work in OT, you complete an accredited educational program and take a national board exam. Research schools in your area (or elsewhere if you wish to move), visit the campus, and ask to meet with the Professors and current students. I would also advise you to shadow OT Professionals. This could be an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). Schooling for OT’s requires a bachelors and then a Masters or Doctorate in OT. Occupational Therapy Assistant education is typically 2 (AS or AA degree) to 4 years (BS).
OT is a great career choice and provides many opportunities! Best of Luck!
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Taylor’s Answer

I just had a college student applying to OT school and she used a website that was a common app for OT schools basically. She could also see what the requirement was for the schools and add what extra she needed and pick where to send it. It was called OTCAS (OT central application service). Maybe look into that to help streamline the process and organize it! Having observation hours is either required or highly recommended prior to applying.
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