Fig. 1
Flow diagram showing the entry pathways for overseas-trained optometrists to undertake the Competency in Optometry Exam (COE) and the possible outcomes. 1A full list of eligible qualifications can be found at http://www.ocanz.org/examination/competency-in-optometry-examination. 2To be eligible to sit the COE an applicant must provide evidence of successful completion of a course of 4 years’ full-time study (including at least one equivalent full time academic year, spent primarily in direct contact with patients to experience and learn about clinical practice, including diagnosis and management of patients), or a course of 3 years’ full-time study followed by one year supervised clinical practice after which a professional examination is passed. 3The multiple choice question (MCQ) and short answer question (SAQ) examinations are undertaken in the same sitting over two consecutive days. 4Limited registration with the Optometry Board of Australia (OBA) and provisional registration with the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board in New Zealand (ODOB). The Assessment of Competence in Ocular Therapeutics (ACOT) examination or an accredited program in ocular therapeutics must then be completed within specified timeframes to gain full registration