Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Admissions

Rush University Occupational Therapy Admissions Mission

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The Department of Occupational Therapy’s Admissions Committee is committed to achieving a diverse and inclusive student body, embracing the differences that diversity contributes to the growth of our profession and the clients we serve. We seek to matriculate students with a commitment to learning, scholarship, service, and who demonstrate a passion for occupational therapy. 

Note: Special consideration will be given to applicants who have the potential to help us achieve our mission. Please ensure all portions of your OTCAS application are completed thoroughly outlining all life experiences.

Admissions Requirements

General Requirements
Complete a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants may apply with outstanding coursework if all coursework is completed and a degree is conferred by matriculation (September).	Image
Complete the online application through the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application System (OTCAS) at https://otcas.liaisoncas.com. You can find a video walking you through OTCAS here.	Image
Achieve a minimum GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in the most recent two years of your education.	Image
Personal Statement reflecting your understanding of OT and how your experiences show your commitment to learning, scholarship, and service.	Image
Two Letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with your academic or professional aptitudes. OTCAS will contact each reference with instructions on how to complete an online evaluation.	Image
Occupational Therapy Experience: 20 hours (minimum) observation of occupational therapy. Fill out this survey to be paired with an alumnus to observe Alumni Q&A session attendees will receive 1 observation hour	Image
Interview Session: Selected applicants will be invited to a small-group virtual interview and must complete a Rush supplemental application, with a $40 fee.	Image

Please note that we no longer require or consider GRE scores.

Accepted applicants must complete a criminal background check and the required Health and Immunization History documentation. A felony conviction potentially negatively impacts a graduate’s eligibility for certification and licensure.

The OTD program requires students to complete all required courses in the Rush University Department of OT plan of study. We do not allow credit for previous coursework and/or work experience.

All application materials will be evaluated, and the Occupational Therapy Admissions Committee will make decisions regarding the applicant's acceptability for the program. Academic and non-academic factors, including community service, work experience, research, and leadership, will be considered.

How to Apply to the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Program 

View a tutorial of the OTCAS application:

Complete the following steps to apply to the entry-level occupational therapy doctoral program:

• Submit an online application through the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application System (OTCAS) at https://otcas.liaisoncas.com
• You will also need the following ready to submit directly to OTCAS:
  • Official transcripts from every U.S. college or university attended. Include international course evaluations for coursework completed outside the United States. Note: OTCAS only accepts WES
    Two letters of recommendation from individuals acquainted with the applicant’s academic/professional aptitudes. OTCAS will contact each reference with instructions on how to complete an online evaluation.
  • Personal statement.
• If your native language is not English, submit Test of English as a Foreign Language, or TOEFL scores.

You will be informed if you are required to complete the secondary Rush application. Do not complete the secondary application until you have been asked to do so. 

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