American Optometric Student Association
Pre-Health·Academic Societies·Political Advocacy Groups·Community Service/Nonprofit
The American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) is the national student organization for optometry students, with a chapter at UC Berkeley's School of Optometry. Members access scholarships, residency forums, career resources, and advocacy training, including opportunities to meet with legislators on Capitol Hill. The organization publishes Foresite, a student-written content hub covering residency, clinical rotations, boards prep, and wellness. Each school chapter hosts events aligned with AOSA's pillars: education, advocacy, tools for success, and student experience.
26
Number of optometry schools and colleges with AOSA chapters
48.6%
Minority membership share
$1,500
Opportunities in Optometry Grant amount
April 1, July 1, and November 1, 2026
Grant application deadlines
1968
Year founded
Events They Host
Optometry's Meeting 2026
Annual national conference held in Phoenix in 2026. AOSA members participate in the AOA+ Leadership Society program, the Sale for Sight volunteer event, and can receive Travel Grant Fund support for attendance. Students whose badges are scanned at required events receive credit toward the Travel Grant Fund.
AOA Virtual Affiliate Connections
Pre-Optometry's Meeting virtual event where students meet virtually with doctors, state affiliate leaders, and fellow students in their region.
AOA on Capitol Hill
Federal advocacy event where AOSA members meet with politicians and congressional staffers to discuss optometry scope-of-practice issues. AOSA provides briefings to prepare students before meetings.
Sale for Sight
Volunteer event held during Optometry's Meeting on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Member Experiences
AOA+ Leadership Link Luncheon
Pre-registration required. Part of AOA+ Leadership Society requirements at Optometry's Meeting.
AOA+ Residency Summit & Career Fair
Part of AOA+ Leadership Society requirements at Optometry's Meeting.
Celebration of Optometry
Part of AOA+ Leadership Society requirements at Optometry's Meeting.
Affiliate Connections
Members meet with state affiliate leaders and doctors at Optometry's Meeting.