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A group of students in front of the Cal Bear statue at opto-camp.

About Our Camp

If you are looking to learn more about the field of Optometry, consider joining us for Opto-Camp, a FREE virtual program hosted each summer by the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science. We provide participants with opportunities to learn about the optometric profession and the process to become a trained optometrist.

Camp Dates

June 9 – 13, 2025

Goals

  1. Opportunities to network and learn from OD alumni, current students, and faculty
  2. Application Tips, Interview Skills, Essay Preparation
  3. Fundamentals of Vision Health
  4. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging & Health Disparities in the United States
  5. Overview of Various Careers in Optometry

Apply (It’s Free!)

Opto-Camp 2025 will run from June 9th – June 13th. The application will open on February 3rd, and close on March 28th. Applicants who are underrepresented in the field of optometry or who are the first in their family to pursue post-high school education are especially encouraged to apply!

Eligibility

  • Interest in Optometry.
  • Enrolled in, or have completed undergraduate studies.
  • U.S. citizens, Permanent Residents, and international applicants are welcome to apply!
  • Students with underrepresented backgrounds and identities in optometry are strongly encouraged to apply.

Costs

  • Thanks to the support of VSP (Vision Service Plan), there is no fee to attend Opto-Camp.

How To Apply

Click to Apply

Please see below for more information to help you prepare for when the application opens. The application consists of the following: an online application, short answer questions, a letter of recommendation, and a transcript from your primary institution (either an official or unofficial will be accepted). See below for details on the application parts.

After clicking the apply button, select Create an Account under First Time User
Use the pin sent to your email from gradadm@berkeley.edu to sign in

  • Create a password
  • Select Start an Application
  • Select UC Berkeley Graduate Applications 2025-2026
  • Select 2025 Programs
  • Select Opto-Camp from the drop down options
  • Complete your Application
    • Personal Information (including DOB, GPA, emergency contact info, income, etc.)
    • Student Information: Click “Add New” under the blue bar to enter information about your undergraduate college or university. Make sure to click “Save” when done.
    • Family Background
    • Short Answers: Ensure your responses are thorough and do not exceed the 300 word limit.
    • Supporting Materials: Click “Choose File” to upload your most recent college or university transcript. (Official or unofficial transcripts are acceptable)
    • Reference: Click “Add Recommender” to add one letter of recommendation from an optometry, academic source, or supervisor. Your recommender will receive an email from gradsys@berkeley.edu including instructions on how to submit your letter of recommendation
    • Signature: Type your full legal name to certify your given information is true
    • You are able to complete your application in more than one sitting, but you must finish the required fields and select Submit by March 28, 2025 for it to be reviewed.
300 words max per question. Please be thorough in your response:

  • How did you hear about Opto-Camp at UC Berkeley's School of Optometry?
  • What sort of experiences (personal, professional, academic or extracurricular) have you had related to the field of Optometry and/or any other Health Professions?
  • Do you have any additional involvement in extracurriculars (including clubs, athletics, community service, or work experience)?
  • Why would you like to attend Opto-Camp?
  • What about the field of Optometry do you think makes it a great fit for you?
Recommender name and job title
Recommender phone number
Recommender email

When you submit your application, an email will be sent directly to your recommender with instructions on how to provide your letter of recommendation. Please make sure the individual who will write your letter of recommendation knows to expect an email from gradsys@berkeley.edu.

FAQs

Q: I am in high school; can I attend the program?
A: We do not consider applications from high school students.

Q: Is there a GPA requirement?
A: There is no GPA requirement.

Q: Is there a specific major I need to have?
A: There is no specific major requirement.

Q: What if I can only attend some of the days?
A: Participants are required to attend the program in its entirety.

Q: Do I have to be currently enrolled in undergrad to apply?
A: You do not currently need to be enrolled in undergraduate studies, however, we do expect that selected participants have completed some college level coursework or have obtained at least an Bachelors degree.

Q: Do I have to be applying to the OD/VS program this cycle?
A: Applicants do not need to be in the process of applying to optometry programs. Opto-Camp is a great experience for both individuals who are applying and individuals who are exploring optometry as a career.

Q: Is this a guarantee to get into the University of California Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science?
A: Attending Opto-Camp does not guarantee admission into our School.

Q: If I don’t get in this year, can I apply again?
A: Applicants are welcome and encouraged to reapply!

Q: Who should write my letter of recommendation?
A: The strongest letters of recommendation are from individuals who know you well and have been in a position to oversee your work. Letters from individuals in the optometric field, while helpful, are not required. We recommend receiving a letter of recommendation from an Optometrist, supervisor in either an employment or volunteer setting, life science professor or pre-health advisor. Please note that letters should not come from family members or friends.

Q: Do you accept unofficial transcripts?
A: Yes! You may upload an unofficial transcript on Slate.

Opto-Camp Videos

Andrea Huerta

Meet Opto-Camp alum and Berkeley Optometry student Andrea.

Mahsa Masoudi

Mahsa is an Opto-Camp alum, former Opto-Camp counselor, and a Berkeley Optometry student.

Aubrey Vetrone

Berkeley Optometry student Aubrey is an Opto-Camp alum and former Opto-Camp counselor.

Contact Us

Please contact us if you have any questions about Opto-Camp or about the application process. We are here to help!

Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science
Admissions and Student Affairs
380 Minor Hall
Berkeley, CA 94720-2020

optometry-admissions@berkeley.edu 510-642-9537

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Our Sponsors

Opto-Camp is generously supported by our friends at VSP Vision Care, a vision care health insurance company operating in Australia, Canada, Ireland, the US, and the UK.

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