Application Process for the OTD Program
Application Process for the OTD Program
The OTCAS 2024-2025 application is now open!
The Occupational Therapy Doctorate Class of 2027 begins their program on May 27, 2025.
Step 1: Complete Your Application
The priority application date is September 1. Current Rockhurst students with a pre-admit award have a September 1 deadline to submit their application through SLATE.
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 must be sent to OTCAS electronically
- Summary of your observation hours
- Three letters of recommendation
- A personal essay – The essay should be no more than 1,000 words and addresses how the applicant's life experiences informed their 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.
English Language Proficiency
International students who did not complete their undergraduate degree at a primarily English-speaking institution are required to submit proof of English language proficiency. English-language proficiency accepted tests and score minimums are listed below.
Most international applicants are required to demonstrate their English language proficiency, which can be done by submitting any one of the following:
- 550 on the paper-based TOEFL (PBT)
- 80 on the internet-based TOEFL (IBT)
- 627 on the TOEFL ITP Plus for China
- 6.5 on the IELTS
- 54 on the PTE
- 550 on the Evidence-Based Reading/Writing portion of the SAT
- 21 on the English portion of the ACT
- Successful completion of a college-level, non-ESL English class at a U.S. college or university
- 110 on Duolingo
Students who are a citizens of a primarily English-speaking country or have completed their entire high school curriculum in English are not required to submit a standardized test score as proof of English language proficiency. Please contact your admission counselor if you have any questions.
Step 3: Watch For An Interview Invitation
Qualified applicants are invited to interview on Rockhurst University’s campus (virtual interviews will be accommodated in extenuating circumstances). Interviews will be offered on a rolling basis as applications are received. Save the date! Interviews are scheduled for Saturday, November 16.
*Because the Rockhurst University mission and values encourage the pursuit of academic inquiry, service and social justice, applicants and admitted students will not be penalized as the result of any disciplinary action by their high school resulting from lawful, peaceful protests organized to make a stand regarding critical societal issues.
OT Questions? Let Us Help!
If you have questions about the application process, don't hesitate to get in touch with the SLCNHS Graduate Admissions Office at 816-501-4220 or by email. To schedule an appointment, click Book Appointment.
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