Get Started

Set Your Sights on a Career in Optometry with SCO

For more than 90 years, Southern College of Optometry has provided an immersive and rich learning experience for optometry students both in the classroom and in clinic. Our state-of-the-art facilities, award-winning faculty, and real-world learning opportunities provide you with the knowledge you need to succeed as an optometry professional.

Apply Today Why SCO?

Prepare to Become an Optometrist

Like other healthcare professions, optometry requires planning and preparation in order to succeed. Prospective optometry students are encouraged to explore the admissions process by reviewing each of the steps outlined on this site, including the admissions overview, how to become a competitive applicant, application deadlines, the Optometry Admissions Test (OAT) and additional important information.

The Student Services staff at SCO is ready to assist you with any questions you may have as you prepare to take your first step on the road to becoming an optometrist.

Speak with An Advisor

Upcoming Events - Prospective Students

All Events

Eye on Success

June 6, 2023 - June 8, 2023

8th Floor

Prospective Student Check List

Understanding Admissions

SCO wants to provide you quality information that guides you through the application process and makes you a more attractive candidate.

See Admissions
Enjoying Student Life

By maximizing the opportunities that Memphis offers to our students, SCO truly believes that it provides one of the best student life experiences in the country.

Explore Student Life
Learning About Financial Aid

SCO actively endeavors to provide students with the scholarships and financial aid strategies they need to succeed. The college offers institutional and donor-established scholarships as well as other awards presented to students throughout the four-year program.

See Financial Aid
Quick Facts

Before applying to SCO, you deserve to know the quick facts about SCO’s tuition, its National Board passage rates, its entering class statistics and more.

Read Quick Facts
Prerequiste Classes

This is a recommended course sequence that will allow students to complete the prerequisite courses required by SCO.

Learn More
Events

From visits to more than 100 campus locations each year to special high school and undergraduate events, SCO actively works to provide you with the information you need in order to determine if optometry and SCO are good fits for you.

See Events

Set Your Sights on a Career in Optometry with SCO

Prepare to Become an Optometrist

Upcoming Events - Prospective Students

Prospective Student Check List

Student Life