OTD Admissions Overview

OT students in lab

Admission to the University of Minnesota Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program (OTD)

Important Eligibility Note:
The OTD application process is only for students who have already been admitted to, and are currently enrolled in, the UMN MOT program.

Not yet in the MOT program? Please start at our MOT Admissions Overview page to learn how to enter the program.

Current MOT Student? Read below for your transition timeline and requirements.

Application to OTD Program

Step 1: Entering the MOT Program

Apply to the MOT via OTCAS

All students begin their journey by applying to the University of Minnesota OT Program as Master's students.

  • Where to Apply: Complete the online application via OTCAS, including the UMN Program Materials section.
  • Important: Monitor your OTCAS email closely and frequently for application progression or missing information requests.
  • Decision Timeline: Students are notified of acceptance into the MOT throughout the application period on a rolling basis as files are reviewed.

See OTCAS Application and Verification Process

Step 2: Advancing to the OTD (Internal Application)

Meet OTD Eligibility Criteria

Admission to the entry-level OTD program is strictly based on your performance during your first two semesters in the UMN MOT program.

  • Academic Focus: Evaluation is based entirely on your UMN MOT coursework.
  • Exclusions: Advanced placement credits, undergraduate credits, experiential learning, or prior work experience outside of the UMN OT program will not be factored into this review.
  • Eligibility: All students currently in good standing in the UMN MOT program are eligible to apply.

Submit the Internal OTD Application

Applications must be submitted directly to the Department of Occupational Therapy during Semester 2 (after Spring Break).

OTD Application Checklist (Submitted Internally)

  • OTD Application Grade Summary Form: Detailing your grades and GPA from Semester 1 of the UMN MOT program
  • OTD Application Recommendation Form: Completed by your assigned UMN MOT faculty advisor
  • OTD Reflection of Professional Goals: A written statement outlining your goals for pursuing the OTD

Critical Deadlines and Review Timeline

Application Deadline: March of a student’s second semester in the MOT program.  Please note: Any application that is incomplete by this date will not be reviewed by the committee.

  • Review Process: The Faculty OTD Admissions Committee reviews all submitted materials following the March deadline.
  • Notification: Applicants will be notified regarding their acceptance or waitlist status before Semester 3 (Summer) of the OTD Program begins.
  • Note: There are limited seats in the OTD program and admission may be competitive.