International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) | Fully Funded Scholarship 2023

Continue your studies anywhere in the world. The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) scholarship is currently open. In this article we will explain in detail about this scholarship, its benefits and the application process step by step.

The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Scholarship 2023-2024 is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship provides the recipient with a stipend of up to $50,000 to help cover living expenses and return travel.

The ICO-Allergan Advanced Research Scholarship is open to young ophthalmologists from around the world who want to carry out basic or clinical research at a chosen university. One of the main objectives and obligations of the ICO is to promote ophthalmological education to improve eye care and contribute to the conservation and restoration of vision throughout the world. To fulfill this commitment, ICO offers training programs and projects to strengthen and promote ophthalmology education, particularly in developing countries.

Scholarship Summary

Level of study: Research Grant, Postdoctoral
Institution(s): The chosen university, (preferably in a foreign country where they live)
To study in: All over the world
Courses offered: Ophthalmology
Program period: According to the program
Term: March 31 / September 30 (every year)

Scholarship coverage

The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Scholarship provides the recipient with with a maximum of US$50,000 stipend to help cover living expenses and return travel.

International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Required language: English
Eligible countries: All the countries of the world.
Research requirements:
- Description of previous work in the application field
- Detailed CV, including detailed list of publications and impact factors
- Endorsement of the current program director
- Confirmation of viability of the chosen host university
- A detailed description of how the research work should be continued during the fellowship.
- Sustainability Statement, p. eg, confirmation from the current program director that the applicant can return after their fellowship and resume their position.
Basic requirements:
- Minimum 12 months of research training.
- Online application on the ICO website.
- Applications for research papers in the following subspecialties will be accepted: Glaucoma, Neuro-ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Retina, Tumors, Uveitis, Dry Eye and Cornea.
- Copy of ophthalmology specialist exam that must be satisfactorily passed.
- The applicant must have a reasonable command of the language of the fellowship training center.
- Applicant must be under 40 years of age at the time of application.
- The ICO recommends that candidates pass one or more ICO exams. We consider this in evaluating applications for HERE.
- Applicants from countries with ophthalmic societies that are ICO members will receive special consideration to learn more about ICO members. click HERE.
To learn more about the Eligibility Requirements click here.

How to apply for the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Scholarship

Follow the steps below to apply for this scholarship:

You will need to create an ICO account if you do not already have one.
Select a scholarship: After identifying your country, the ICO scholarships for which you are eligible will be displayed.
Full Eligibility Verification: You will be asked to provide information to determine if you are eligible to receive the selected ICO scholarship.
ICO Eligibility Review: After you submit your information to the ICO, your eligibility will be determined. You will be notified of the decision and asked to complete the application or you will be told that you are not eligible.
Apply to a Host Training Center: If you are eligible, you will select and apply for a host. Please note that you can only apply to a host at the same time.
Host application review: Your request will be reviewed by the host you have selected. If you are accepted, you will need to confirm the details agreed between you and the host. If your request is denied, you will need to select another host.
Scholarship application sent: You will be notified that your application is complete and will be reviewed by the appropriate ICO Scholarship Committee.