AOTA Fellowship Program overview

Is your organization interested in seeking AOTA accreditation for an existing or new fellowship? Learn about the benefits and steps to accreditation.

Benefits of an organization having an AOTA-accredited fellowship

The AOTA Fellowship Program offers advanced clinical training and professional development for occupational therapists at all career stages. It provides fellows with hands-on experience, mentorship, and specialized skills, preparing them for advanced certification and leadership roles. The program emphasizes rigorous standards, evidence-based practice, and networking opportunities.

Accreditation adds credibility to the fellowship program. It demonstrates that the organization meets or exceeds established standards, enhancing its reputation among peers, professionals, and stakeholders.

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AOTA Fellowship Program Discounts

Being part of the AOTA Fellowship program gives you discounts on a variety of AOTA products:

  • 5% discount on AOTA INSPIRE exhibits and sponsorships, and on social media posts on AOTA's Instagram and Facebook platforms
  • 10% discount on AOTA Specialty Conferences (Adult Rehab, Mental Health, Ed Summit) tabletop booths, AOTA Job Link job postings, Virtual Career Fair, and AOTA e-newsletters
  • 20% discount on OT Practice Advertising, AOTA Webinars, and AOTA.org/AJOT digital advertising
Questions? Email us!
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AOTA Fellowship Program Accreditation Process

The initial process for accreditation starts with submitting:

  1. An Intent to Seek Accreditation form, prior to submitting your Candidacy Application.
  2. A Candidacy Application by one these review cycle deadlines—May 1, September 1, or December 1.
    You may submit a candidacy application after receiving approval of the Intent to Seek Accreditation form. 

The Intent to Seek Accreditation form and Candidacy Application can be accessed through the OpenWater portal.

Questions? Email us!
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Application training sessions

Interested in submitting an AOTA Fellowship Candidacy Application? Join an upcoming Application Training Session! These sessions will practical insight to support a strong application.

All sessions are open access; no registration is required. Simply click the session link at the scheduled time to join.

2026 Training Dates and Times

Click here to join the March 13, 2026 training session, 3:00 pm-4:00 pm ET

Click here to join the June 24, 2026 training session, 3:00 pm-4:00pm ET

Click here to join the October 7, 2026 training session, 3:00 pm-4:00 pm ET

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Lauren Wlazelek

Watching a fellow develop their clinical reasoning for delivering occupation based interventions is a privilege. It encourages me to become a more advanced therapist.

Lauren Wlazelek
Fellowship Coordinator