Applying to occupational therapy school is an exciting step toward your future profession. However, the application process can also be overwhelming. Admission is competitive, and you’ll want to stand out with a strong application.

This article will help you highlight strengths that align with your chosen program and boost your chances of acceptance into an occupational therapy program.

Occupational Therapy Graduate Programs

The first step in a successful application process is to find an occupational therapy program that matches your personal values and professional goals. There are numerous options and paths to choose from, including online and accelerated formats.

Bachelor's Degree Options

Whether you are considering applying to an entry-level Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program or an entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree first.

Any bachelor’s degree may meet the admissions requirement. However, some undergraduate majors may give you an edge:

  • Biology
  • Kinesiology
  • Pre-occupational therapy
  • Rehabilitation science
  • Education
  • Health science

Master's of Occupational Therapy Programs

Admission to an entry-level MOT program typically requires the completion of a bachelor’s degree, although some programs accept applicants who are still finishing their undergraduate work.

Entry-level occupational therapy programs are not offered fully online due to curriculum requirements, but many schools offer hybrid options with a partial online format.

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Programs

Admission to an entry-level OTD program requires at least a completed bachelor’s degree. As with MOT programs, the entry-level OTD format is not available entirely online, but hybrid options are offered.

If you already hold an MOT and are working in the field, consider a post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (PPOTD) program.

Post-professional curriculum emphasizes leadership, research, and advanced practice concepts, rather than entry-level clinical skills. PPOTD programs are often entirely online or require minimal campus visits.

If you have a bachelor’s in occupational therapy and a master’s in a related field, you may also qualify for a post-professional program.

Accelerated Fast-Track Formats

Accelerated or fast-track programs allow students to graduate and enter the field sooner. These programs may bypass the bachelor’s degree requirement without sacrificing academic depth or clinical training.

Curriculum is focused on OT training delivered in a blended format, with both online and in-person lab components. Accelerated bridge programs are also available:

  • OTA to OT
  • Direct-entry OTD
  • MOT to OTD
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Application

The general application highlights academic achievements such as GPA and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, if required. While GPA and GRE scores are important, they aren’t the only ways to stand out.

Emphasize courses that align with occupational therapy, especially prerequisites. Include extracurricular activities and memberships that demonstrate growth and skill development.

Participation in student occupational therapy associations is a plus, but other activities—such as debate club—can showcase valuable communication and leadership skills.

Personal Statement

A personal statement is your opportunity to stand out beyond academic achievements. Use it to highlight your passion for occupational therapy, your future aspirations, and how the field aligns with your values.

Strong personal statements often address:

  • What sparked your interest in OT, such as seeing a friend or relative benefit from therapy.
  • Where you envision your OT career—teaching, pediatrics, research, or geriatric care.
  • How observation hours shaped your understanding of the profession and confirmed your commitment.
  • How you manage time, set goals, and handle stress as a graduate student.
  • Your hobbies and passions outside of academics, which show personality and balance.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation may come from teachers, professors, advisors, employers, or volunteer supervisors. An effective letter highlights your strengths and explains why you are a good fit for an occupational therapy program.

Check with admissions to confirm the required format or submission method. Many schools streamline the process through electronic requests and submissions.

A Successful Application to an OT Program

Applying to an occupational therapy program is an exciting and sometimes daunting experience. Keep in mind that you've got a lot of options and support, regardless of where your journey into the field of occupational therapy starts.

Choosing the right program and format to fit your goals and stage of the journey, and standing out on your application, are the first steps towards success as an occupational therapist.