International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship 2025: Apply Now

Pursue your studies anywhere in the world with the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship. This fully funded opportunity is designed for international students who aim to enhance their expertise in ophthalmology through advanced research. Below, we provide all the essential details about the fellowship, its benefits, and the step-by-step application process.

About the ICO Fellowship

The ICO Fellowship for 2025-2026 is a prestigious program that offers young ophthalmologists the opportunity to conduct research in a chosen university. This fellowship provides a stipend of up to $50,000 to cover living expenses and return travel. Through its programs, the ICO seeks to enhance global ophthalmic education, improve eye care, and contribute to the conservation and restoration of vision worldwide, particularly in developing nations.

Program Highlights

• Level of Study: Research Fellowship, Postdoctoral

• Host Institution: A university of the applicant’s choice (preferably outside their home country)

• Study Location: Worldwide

• Field of Study: Ophthalmology

• Program Duration: Varies by program

• Application Deadlines: March 31 and September 30 (annually)

Scholarship Benefits

The ICO Fellowship provides:

• A stipend of up to $50,000 to assist with living expenses and return travel.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the ICO Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

General Requirements

• Proficiency in English.

• Aged under 40 at the time of application.

• Applicants must hold a specialist certification in ophthalmology.

• Reasonable fluency in the language of the host training center.

Research Requirements

• A detailed CV, including a list of publications and their impact factors.

• A description of prior work in the field.

• Endorsement from the current program director.

• Feasibility confirmation from the chosen host university.

• A sustainability statement confirming the ability to return and resume a prior position post-fellowship.

Additional Recommendations

• Completion of one or more ICO exams.

• Preference for applicants from countries with ophthalmologic societies that are ICO members to know more about members of the ICO click HERE..

Eligible Research Sub-Specialties

Research can be undertaken in the following areas:

• Glaucoma

• Neuro-Ophthalmology

• Pediatric Ophthalmology

• Retina

• Tumors

• Uveitis

• Dry Eye

• Cornea

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the ICO Fellowship:

1. Create an ICO Account: If you don’t have one, sign up on the ICO website.

2. Select a Fellowship: Identify your country to see available fellowships.

3. Complete Eligibility Check: Provide required information to confirm your eligibility.

4. Eligibility Review: The ICO will review your information and notify you of your eligibility status.

5. Apply to a Host Training Center: Select and apply to one host at a time. If declined, choose another host.

6. Host Application Review: Finalize details with your host if accepted.

7. Submit Fellowship Application: Complete your application, which will be reviewed by the ICO Fellowship Committee.

Learn More

For additional details about the ICO Fellowship, visit the official ICO website.

Conclusion

Embark on this transformative journey to advance your expertise in ophthalmology and contribute to global eye care.

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