Application Process for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program

Step 1: Complete Your Application

Create an OTCAS account and complete your application. Cycles open July 21, 2023, for the programs beginning the following academic year. Applicants who meet the September 1, 2023 priority deadline will be considered for an interview on November 11, 2023. Enrollment is limited and early application is strongly encouraged. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

For assistance using OTCAS, contact 617-612-2860 or otcasinfo@otcas.org.

Rockhurst students, please apply using the internal application at SLNCHS Graduate Admissions. 

Important dates:

• OTCAS 2023-2024 application cycle opens July 21, 2023.
• Rockhurst students' deadline for application is September 1, 2023.
• OTCAS application priority deadline is September 1, 2023.
• OT interview day November 11, 2023.
• OTCAS academic update opens December 11, 2023 (applicants update their application with coursework/grades from the summer and/or fall 2023 semesters).
• Applications will be accepted and reviewed following the initial interview date on November 11, 2023.
• OTD Class of 2023 begins the program on May 28, 2024. 

Step 2: Submit Required Materials to OTCAS

Students submit all required materials directly to OTCAS and must follow guidelines found on the OTCAS website. Your application is not complete until the following materials are submitted directly to OTCAS:

• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. These must be sent to OTCAS Verification Department, P.O. Box 9120, Watertown, MA 02471.
• Summary of your observation hours, extracurricular activities, honors and awards.
• Three letters of recommendation. These can be sent electronically or mailed. OTCAS only accepts paper recommendations when they are accompanied by a completed Paper Reference Form – an evaluation grid available for download when you log in to your OTCAS account – and it must be sent to the same address above.
• A personal essay - The essay should be no more than 1,000 words and addresses how the applicant's life experiences informed his or her decision to pursue occupational therapy while also demonstrating knowledge of the profession. The essay should also demonstrate knowledge of Rockhurst University's Jesuit Core Values and how they can often inform the profession of occupational therapy. This is separate from the personal statement required by OTCAS.
• TOEFL - Internet-based minimum score of 80, or iTEP score of 3.9 (Scores must be within the last two years), or proof of graduating from a college or high school where English is the primary mode of instruction. 

Step 3: You’re Accepted, Now What?

Upon acceptance to the OTD program, new students will receive a Next Steps packet with details preparing them for Rockhurst University and the Occupational Therapy program, including the date for orientation. All new OT students are required to attend orientation.

If you have questions about the application process, don't hesitate to get in touch with the CNHS Graduate Admissions Office at 816.501.4220 or by email. To schedule an appointment, click Book Appointment.