I wanted to lay out a few ways that you can become a COA. 1. 1,000 hours of work Experience + JCAT + COA Exam This is the most common way to become a COA. You have to work for an ophthalmologist for 1,000 hours (6 months full time) and pass the exam. You will also have to be sponsored by a doctor before you can set a test date.

I wanted to lay out a few ways that you can become a COA. 1. 1,000 hours of work Experience + JCAT + COA Exam This is the most common way to become a COA. You have to work for an ophthalmologist for 1,000 hours (6 months full time) and pass the exam. You will also have to be sponsored by a doctor before you can set a test date.