OTD Admissions

Application Process

  • Students interested in applying to the FDU OTD Program should apply through OTCAS. All applications including applicable documents must be submitted and verified through OTCAS.
  • The OTCAS application opens mid- July. The priority application deadline is March 15th. The regular application deadline is April 15th.
  • The FDU OTD Program operates on a rolling admissions basis, applicants are encouraged to apply early.
  • There is no supplemental application for the FDU OTD Program.

Academic Standards for Enrollment

Preference will be given to applicants with a 2.75 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale

Admission Requirements and Education

Prior to matriculation, applicants to FDU’s OTD program must have earned a bachelor’s degree or US equivalent. It is recommended that the below required courses have been taken within the last 5 years.

  • 4 credits of Anatomy and Physiology I, or Anatomy with lab
  • 4 credits of Anatomy and Physiology II, or Physiology with lab
  • 3 credits of hours of Lifespan or Human Development or courses to include Childhood, Adolescent and Adult Development
  • 3 credits of hours of Abnormal Psychology
  • 3 credits of hours of Social/Behavioral Sciences
  • 3 credits of hours of Statistics

Each of the above courses must be completed with a minimum grade of C

Letters of Recommendation/Observation Hours

Letters of recommendation and experience (observation, shadowing, work, volunteer) in healthcare are recommended but not required, however, letters of recommendation and experience will enhance your application.

Technical Requirements

Each student is provided with an iPad at the start of the program and is expected to utilize this (or another device) with reliable internet connectivity throughout the program. Students are expected to have basic computer and technology proficiencies to support their utilization of essential learning management systems and platforms.

Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen

A criminal background check and a drug screen are required for all matriculating students. The background check and drug screening are performed by Certiphi. Please be advised any former criminal history may impact the ability to complete the program and receive certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).

Interview Process

Qualified applicants will be invited for a personal interview. Interviews are scheduled through the admissions office and include a faculty-led interview with a question-and-answer session.

Acceptance Notification

Following the interview, candidates will be notified within 14 days of the admission committee’s decision.

International Students

International applicants must submit to OTCAS an official course-by-course transcript evaluation completed by one of the member organizations of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Please visit NACES.org for a list of those participating organizations.

International applicants are required to submit proof of English proficiency in the following manner:

  • TOEFL-IBT with a score of 70 or higher
  • IELTS with a score of 6 or better
  • Completion of English Composition at the college or university level with a grade of C or better

Transfer Credit

The OTD program does not grant prospective or enrolled students a waiver of required coursework or advanced standing. Students are required to complete all semesters in their sequenced order and cannot advance in the curriculum without completing all components.