Member Benefits
CAO student membership is free and students receive a wide array of benefits, including:
- Resource Library
- Job Board & Classifieds
- Canadian Journal of Optometry (online)
- White Coats (School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo)
- Weekly Member Newsletters
- Special registration rate at CAO Congress
- Access to CAO member benefits, including financial assistance and home/auto insurance
Please note that Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS) members automatically register as CAO student members. Reach out to your CAOS Chapters to know more.
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Supporting the next generation of Optometrists
The CAO proudly supports the next generation of optometrists and partners with both Canadian schools of optometry: School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, and the École d’optométrie de l’Université de Montréal, as well as the Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS).
The CAO President and representatives regularly meet with Canadian students enrolled in optometry program in Canada and in the U.S to discuss a wide range of topics, including choosing practice environments, understanding contracts, building a professional niche, the work of the CAO and the importance of membership, and the current optometric landscape in Canada.
Get Involved—Starting Now
Students play an important role within the association—you don’t have to wait until you’re in practice to get involved. As a Student Member, there are many opportunities to contribute, build skills, and help advance the profession.
You are the future of optometry, and your voice matters!
Engage for your profession!
Interested in supporting the CAO’s advocacy efforts on behalf of optometrists?
The CAO offers training sessions designed specifically for students, covering effective advocacy strategies, key optometry priorities, and the resources available to help you make an impact—now and throughout your career.
Questions? Please contact Bonnie Kirkwood, CAO Director of Advocacy and Government Relations, at bkikrwood@opto.ca
Hear from our current and past CAO Student Representatives
Several years ago, we created a student representative position on the Council to strengthen our connection with optometry students.
Meet Thaksha, a third-year student at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science and the CAO Student Representative for 2025-2026. She took the time to share a bit about herself, and what she's looking forward to during her time on council!
Meet Rebecca, a third-year student at State University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry and the CAO Student Representative for 2024 - 2025. She took the time to share some insights about her experience during her time as CAO Student Representative.
Meet Jordan, an optometry student at the University of Montreal School of Optometry and the Past CAO Student Representative. He took the time to share some insights about her experience during his time as CAO Student Representative.