Examination > Overseas Optometrists
Written Examination
The examination process consists of two components designed to assess both foundational knowledge and clinical application.
Clinical Science Examination (MCQ)
This is a 3-hour multiple choice examination comprising 144 questions. It evaluates candidates’ knowledge across biomedical, vision, optical, and clinical sciences, as well as their ability to apply this knowledge in clinical contexts.
Each question has four options, with one best answer. Of the 144 questions, 120 contribute to the final result, while 24 are unscored and used for future exam development
Diagnosis and Management Examination (SAQ)
This 3-hour written examination consists of 18 short answer questions, often with multiple parts based on clinical cases. Questions may include images of eye conditions and test results.
Candidates are assessed on their ability to:
- Interpret clinical findings and identify normal and abnormal features
- Diagnose conditions and justify their reasoning
- Recommend appropriate treatment or management, including referral decisions
- Identify signs, symptoms, and necessary further investigations
- Discuss prognosis and clinical outcomes
Further information regarding the written exams can be found in the Examination Guide below.
- Examination Guide
- Appendix A Optometry Australia Entry level Competency Standards 2014
- Appendix B Skills Station Examination Information
- Appendix C Skills Station Examination Marking Rubric
- Appendix D Skills Station Examination Candidate Recording Sheets
- Appendix E Patient Examination Information
- Appendix F Patient Examination Marking Rubric
- Appendix G Patient Examination Candidate Recording Sheets
Sample multiple choice questions
The multiple-choice question paper will include 120 questions that are marked/assessed, and an additional 24 question that are pilot questions and not marked/assessed, with all questions to be answered within 3 hours. See sample questions below.
Sample short answer questions
The short-answer question paper contains 18 questions that are to be answered in 3 hours. Questions may be accompanied by a case history about which questions can be asked; there may also be photos with or without a case history about which questions can be asked. Alternatively questions that are not specific to a particular patient presentation may be asked. See sample questions below.
View the OCANZ Exam Process video below.
For more information, view our frequently asked questions below.
Withdrawal prior to the written examination
Withdrawal from an examination must be provided in writing to exam.manager@ocanz.org. Any withdrawal from OCANZ written and clinical examinations will incur a $200 administration fee. The amount refunded or held in credit towards another examination attempt is dependent on the notice provided by the candidate, as outlined below.
Written examination
- Day before examination to 14 days before examination: no refund or credit.
- 15 days to 4 weeks before date of examination: 50% of fee paid (less $200 administration fee) is refunded or credited to candidate.
- More than 4 weeks before date of examination: 100% of fee paid (less $200 administration fee) is refunded or credited to candidate.