Occupational therapy is the science that concentrates on helping people recover from mental or physical disabilities. It helps the patients to achieve function and wellness in their physical selves. Physicians who practice occupational therapy are called as occupational therapists. There are numerous colleges as well as universities in our country that offers interested candidates with graduate as well as postgraduate courses in occupational therapy. Those who wish to join these colleges are required to appear and pass in an entrance exam. Candidates who have finished their course in occupational therapy can find jobs with hospitals, rehabilitation centers and special schools in addition to community mental health centers and residential care facilities. It is also possible for them to start their own clinics. Students of this field will have an initial salary of around Rs 8,000 - Rs.10, 000 a month. Professionals can earn as much as Rs. 1 lakh a month.

Qualifying Exam

These are some of the entrance exams for joining the course in occupational therapy - Manipal University Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Entrance Exam, All India Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AIIPMR) Entrance Exam, K.M.C.H. College of Occupational Therapy Entrance Exam and Delhi University Entrance Exam.

Who is eligible to apply?

Candidates who aspire to become occupational therapists must be permanent residents of India. They must be atleast 17 years when they apply for the course. Aspirants are required to have a pass in their 10+2 class. They must have studied Physics and Biology in addition to Chemistry. The admission of the candidates is done on the basis of their marks achieved in the final exams.

How to prepare for exam and interview?

Candidates who are appearing for the written test should be well prepared in the subject of occupational therapy. They can prepare for the test by referring to articles or books based on the subject. Many books that are written by prominent practitioners of this science will be available. Reading this will give the candidates an idea on how to approach the subject. Another good option is to consult members of this field. Candidates can also conduct a small research on the internet before going to the test. This will help them to get familiar with the course and syllabus. At the time of the interview, the candidates must be calm and they should answer in a straightforward manner.