ASOPP is a hybrid bridging pathway for optometrists trained outside North America who seek to practise in Canada. Following FORAC credential assessment and IGOEE eligibility, candidates receive an ASOPP application link; eligible applicants receive a link to take Casper. Students who complete ASOPP may enter year 3 of Waterloo’s Doctor of Optometry program.
- Program
- Advanced Standing Optometry Preparatory Program (ASOPP)
- Location
- Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Casper
- Required
- Interview
- No interview
- Seats
- Maximum 6 students
- Length
- Spring preparatory term, followed by OD years 3 and 4 for students who successfully complete ASOPP.
Casper Requirement for University of Waterloo ASOPP
University of Waterloo ASOPP requires Casper for the 2026-2027 cycle.
Check available Casper test dates in your Acuity Insights account at takecasper.com.
Candidates deemed eligible for bridging receive a link to take Casper online.
Casper format
Casper is an online, open-response situational judgment test run by Acuity Insights. The current format has 11 scenarios (4 video-response and 7 typed-response) with 2 questions each and takes about 65 to 85 minutes, including optional breaks. Typed-response scenarios allow 3.5 minutes to answer both questions.
Practice with Bright Doctor's Casper Question Bank, featuring 100+ scenarios and 300+ expert responses.
University of Waterloo ASOPP Application Deadlines 2026-2027
- Apply through
- Invitation-only ASOPP application link provided through FORAC
FORAC sends application links to candidates eligible for bridging. Eligible former IOBP admissions-pool candidates also receive a link and must submit a new application. ASOPP has not published an exact application or document deadline.
University of Waterloo ASOPP Admissions Statistics
Period: 2027 ASOPP intake
- Seats / class size: Maximum 6 students
Eligibility Requirements for University of Waterloo ASOPP
- Degree / credits
Completed optometry training outside North America, with academic credentials favourably assessed by FORAC.
- Citizenship
Canadian citizen, permanent resident or Convention Refugee; proof of status is required after an offer of admission.
Admission pathways
- Internationally trained optometrists: Applicants eligible for bridging are referred by FORAC after credential assessment and IGOEE results.
- Former IOBP admissions-pool candidates: Candidates in the IOBP admissions pool within the preceding five years receive an ASOPP application link and must submit a new application.
Other requirements
- FORAC credential assessment: Have optometry credentials assessed by FORAC before proceeding to the IGOEE and referral for ASOPP.
- Proof of eligible status: Provide proof of Canadian citizenship, permanent residence or Convention Refugee status after receiving an offer.
Selection Factors University of Waterloo Considers
Admissions tests
- Internationally Graduated Optometrist Evaluating Exam (IGOEE) (required): FORAC refers candidates whose IGOEE scores qualify them for bridging; FORAC provides their scores to ASOPP. Former IOBP admissions-pool candidates may also receive an application link.
Experience and volunteer hours
Not required.
ASOPP lists no shadowing, optometric-assistant work, reception work or volunteer-hour requirement. Admissions decisions are based on IGOEE scores and Casper results.
How applicants are ranked
Admissions decisions are based on IGOEE scores and Casper results. Personal circumstances and time spent in the admissions pool are not considered.
Interview Format at University of Waterloo
Format: No interview
No interview is listed in the ASOPP admissions process.
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Start Practicing FreeCurriculum at University of Waterloo ASOPP
- Program length
- Spring preparatory term, followed by OD years 3 and 4 for students who successfully complete ASOPP.
- Structure
Hybrid: most weeks include two days in person at Waterloo and three days of online coursework.
- Campuses
- Waterloo
ASOPP bridges advanced standing students into the third year of the Doctor of Optometry program through a redesigned curriculum. Upon completion, students join the accredited Doctor of Optometry track, integrating clinical training at the school's two on-campus optometry clinics.
Campus and facilities
The Waterloo campus in Ontario houses the School of Optometry & Vision Science, featuring two operational optometry clinics for hands-on patient care. Students describe a focused environment emphasizing practical experience alongside research opportunities in vision science graduate programs.
Tuition and Funding at University of Waterloo
- 2027 ASOPP program fee: CAD $31,000
ASOPP is not eligible for OSAP, and students do not receive a T2202 tax certificate for the ASOPP term. Doctor of Optometry years 3 and 4 have separate tuition.
What Applicants Are Saying
Matriculated students emphasize that your undergraduate institution carries less weight than fulfilling prerequisites and maintaining a strong academic record. Students report panel-style interview discussions focusing on why optometry suits you and readiness for the program's rigors. Students describe a focused campus environment emphasizing practical experience alongside research opportunities in vision science graduate programs.
Shared by applicants and students on forums and communities. It is anecdotal, not official program information.
How to Prepare Your University of Waterloo ASOPP Application
- Begin with FORAC assessment of your optometry credentials.
- Check your IGOEE eligibility and follow the ASOPP application link provided through FORAC.
- If eligible for bridging, follow ASOPP’s link to take Casper online.
- Use Acuity Insights’ practice resources to become familiar with Casper.
- Plan for the hybrid preparatory term and its in-person days at Waterloo.
More About University of Waterloo ASOPP
- Program launch
Launched in April 2022
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Waterloo ASOPP
Is Casper required for University of Waterloo ASOPP admissions?
Yes. Candidates deemed eligible for bridging receive a link to take Casper online.
What is the minimum GPA for ASOPP?
ASOPP does not publish a minimum GPA; its admissions decisions use IGOEE scores and Casper results.
Does ASOPP require an interview?
ASOPP does not list an interview in its admissions process.
What are the Casper test dates for Waterloo ASOPP?
ASOPP has not published test dates; eligible candidates receive a link to take Casper online.
Is ASOPP suitable for internationally trained optometrists?
Yes. It is a bridging pathway for optometrists trained outside North America who qualify through FORAC assessment and the IGOEE.
What experiences strengthen an ASOPP application?
ASOPP lists no work or shadowing requirement; decisions use IGOEE scores and Casper results.
How long is University of Waterloo ASOPP?
ASOPP runs for a spring preparatory term; successful students can then enter year 3 of the Doctor of Optometry program.
Where are ASOPP classes held?
The hybrid program combines online coursework with, in most weeks, two in-person days at the University of Waterloo.
Sources
- Waterloo ASOPP: Application Process
- Waterloo ASOPP: Admissions
- Waterloo ASOPP: 2027 Program
- Waterloo ASOPP: Program Details
- Waterloo ASOPP: IGOEE
- Waterloo ASOPP: Home
- Waterloo OD: Application timeline
- Acuity Insights: About Casper
Last updated: September 26, 2026