Entry-level OTD Application Procedures
When applying for admission, Baylor receives applications exclusively through the Occupational Therapist Central Application Service (OTCAS), provided by the American Occupational Therapy Association. Application instructions can be found at OTCAS. Information about the Baylor University Entry-level OTD can be found below:
Applying for Admission
The Baylor University Entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program is now accepting applications for the Class of 2029, to begin coursework in September of 2027. It is strongly encouraged that all applicants thoroughly review the instructions for submitting an application through OTCAS as available for download through the OTCAS website before attempting to apply to the Baylor University Entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program.
Now Accepting Applications for the Class of 2029!
- Class of 2029 (September 2027 Start) Application Window: July 16, 2026 - June 30, 2027
- Priority Deadline: October 15, 2026
- Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by the priority deadline to maximize chances for admission and scholarship opportunities
Admissions Criteria
All application materials will be submitted through OTCAS. Review Admission Requirements for Baylor's occupational therapy program, including pre-requisite course requirements:
The Baylor OTD program application essay allows the admissions committee to better understand your motivation for pursuing occupational therapy and your fit with Baylor’s program. Use the guidance below to help you develop a focused, thoughtful response.
Be sure to:
- Carefully follow the essay prompt and length requirements.
Proofread thoroughly. Have trusted individuals review your statement for clarity, grammar, alignment with the prompt, and length requirements.
Baylor undergraduate students are encouraged to utilize the Career Center for Baylor essay and personal statement review.
Things to Avoid:
- Including overly personal or unrelated details. You need to focus on addressing the prompt to showcase your ability to follow directions.
- Using clichés or negative language. You want this to be a positive essay that showcases your writing and communication skills.
- Ignoring or exceeding length requirements. Adhering to guidelines demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail.
- Reusing your OTCAS personal statement. The prompt for this essay differs from OTCAS, so be sure to submit a new essay.
Application Review
The Occupational Therapy Admissions Committee and faculty will review all completed applications (i.e., application and all supporting materials received) in the order of receipt. Applicants are evaluated based on the following items:
- Cumulative GPA
- Pre-requisite GPA
- References
- Personal Essay
- Observation Hours
Other factors considered, but not required:
- Relevant work experience
- Prior military experience
The Admissions Committee will use this evaluative process to ensure nondiscrimination and equal opportunity for all applicants. The Admissions Committee will grant admission interviews by invitation only.
Interview Process
The Kira interview consists of recorded responses to questions, allowing the admissions team to get to know you better. The tips below will help you prepare and present yourself confidently. The OTD Admissions Coordinator will contact selected applicants and provide further instructions for completing the interview process. All interviews are conducted using a video-based platform called Kira Talent. Students record and upload their responses to a series of standardized interview questions for review by program faculty and the Admissions Committee. Students must have a computer with webcam and internet service to complete this interview.
- Choose a quiet, distraction‑free space. Ensure you can complete the interview without interruptions, so be sure to select a private place that avoids background noise, pets, other people, etc.
- Baylor students may request to reserve an interview suite in the Career Center.
- Set up a professional background.
- Test your camera and lighting using Zoom or another video platform.
- Avoid backgrounds with beds, bathrooms, ceiling fans, pets, or clutter. A plain wall or neutral background works best.
- Position your camera at eye level.
Place your computer on books or a stand if needed so you are looking directly at the camera. - Dress professionally.
Wear appropriate professional attire from head to toe. - Practice recording your responses.
Practicing will help you feel more comfortable and natural.- Pay attention to eye contact, pacing, and filler words (e.g., “um,” “like”).
- Baylor students can schedule a mock interview with a Career Success Professional via Handshake and utilize Career Center resources to prepare and practice responses. The Kira platform also has practice options.
- Test your technology.
Before starting the interview, confirm your internet connection, camera, microphone, and browser compatibility are working properly.
Preparing Your Answers
- In any interview, be ready to briefly introduce yourself, highlighting relevant experiences and your interest in what you are applying and interviewing for.
- Be able to articulate the 3 whys: why the industry, why the profession, why the school.
- Be prepared to discuss:
- Strengths, using relevant examples and stories.
- Weaknesses/Areas for growth, including how you are actively developing professionally.
- Prepare responses using the STAR method for behavioral questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time…” or “give me an example of…”).
- Situation: Context and background
- Task: The challenge or responsibility
- Action: What you did
- Result: The outcome and what you learned
- Reflect on why you are a strong candidate.
- What makes you a unique candidate?
- How do you and your skills, interests, values, and goals align with Baylor’s OT program values and the occupational therapy profession?
Selection Process
The Admissions Committee and faculty will accept students into the program based on a holistic evaluation of their application, supporting documents, and interview. All applicants will be notified by email and/or mail regarding final selection decisions.
If you have any questions about the program or admissions requirements, please contact us today at Robbins_Grad@baylor.edu or 254-710-4400.