International Council of Ophthalmology ICO Fellowship 2024
Are you aspiring to advance your ophthalmic research and make a global impact? The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship for 2024-2025 is now open, providing a remarkable opportunity for international students to pursue cutting-edge research in the field of ophthalmology. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the details of the ICO Fellowship, outlining its benefits and guiding you through the application process.
Are you aspiring to advance your ophthalmic research, How to Apply for ICO Fellowship, How to apply for ICO, ICO Fellowship Eligibility, ICO Fellowship documents, ICO Fellowship Exam, ICO Fellowship Feee, list of ophthalmology fellowship programs, world ophthalmology congress 2024, fico ophthalmology benefits, ico ophthalmology exam fees, international council of ophthalmology exam, ico fellowship host directory, ico ophthalmology exam dates, ico smartsimple,

Overview of the ICO Fellowship
The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship designed to empower the next generation of ophthalmologists to explore and contribute to the world of eye care. Successful candidates will receive a generous stipend of up to US$50,000, which covers living expenses and return travel.
This fellowship, known as the ICO-Allergan Advanced Research Fellowship, welcomes young ophthalmologists from across the globe who aspire to engage in both basic and clinical research at a university of their choice. At the core of ICO's mission lies the commitment to enhance ophthalmic education, improve eye care, and advocate for the preservation and restoration of vision worldwide. To fulfill this mission, ICO offers educational programs and initiatives, with a special focus on strengthening ophthalmic education, particularly in developing nations.
International Council of Ophthalmology ICO Fellowship 2024 Overview
Fellowship Name | ICO Fellowship 2024-2025 |
---|---|
Level of Study | Research Fellowship, Postdoctoral |
Institution(s) | The chosen university (preferably abroad) |
Study Location | Worldwide |
Courses Offered | Ophthalmology |
Program Period | According to the program |
Application Deadlines | March 31 / September 30 (each year) |
Fellowship Coverage | Up to US$50,000 stipend for living expenses and return travel |
Eligible Countries | All World Countries |
Research Requirements | - Description of previous work in the field of the application |
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Research Fellowship, Postdoctoral
- Institution(s): The chosen university (preferably in a foreign country where the applicant resides)
- Study Location: Worldwide
- Field of Study: Ophthalmology
- Program Duration: As per the program's guidelines
- Application Deadline: March 31 / September 30 (annually)
Scholarship Coverage
The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship is a highly competitive scholarship that offers recipients:
- A substantial stipend of up to US$50,000 to assist with living expenses and return travel.
Eligibility Criteria for International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship
To qualify for the ICO Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English
- Eligible Countries: Open to applicants from all countries worldwide
- Research Requirements: Applicants should provide:
- A comprehensive overview of previous work in the field relevant to their application
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV), including a list of publications with impact factors
- An endorsement from their current program director
- Confirmation of the feasibility of research at the chosen host university
- A detailed description of their research plans during the fellowship
- A sustainability statement, such as confirmation from their current program director that they may return and resume their position after completing the fellowship
- Basic Requirements: Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum of 12 months of research training
- Completion of an online application through the ICO website
- Acceptance of research proposals in specific sub-specialties: Glaucoma, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Retina, Tumours, Uveitis, Dry Eye, and Cornea
- Successful completion of a specialist exam in ophthalmology
- Reasonable fluency in the language spoken at the fellowship training center
- Age under 40 years at the time of application
- The ICO highly recommends candidates pass one or more ICO exams, which are considered during the application assessment.
- Applicants from countries with ophthalmologic societies that are ICO members will receive special consideration.
International Council of Ophthalmology ICO Requirements:
- Residency training must be completed before applying for the fellowship.
- Candidates must come from sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
- Specialist exam in ophthalmology must be successfully passed.
- Applicants are permanently based and work in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
- Applicant must return to home country after the training, resume previous positions, and apply the knowledge gained during the fellowship.
- Applicant must be reasonably fluent in the language of the fellowship training center.
- The ICO recommends that candidates pass one or more ICO Examinations. This is considered in the assessment of applications.
- Applicants from countries with ophthalmology societies that are an ICO Member Society will receive special consideration.
Students' Corner program
Apply for an ICO Fellowship Step By Step
Applying for the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship involves several important steps. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process successfully:
- Step 1: Log in to ICO Fellowship :- Log in to the ICO Fellowship platform using your credentials. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one.
- Step 2: Select a Fellowship :- Begin your online application by selecting your home country. The system will display the ICO Fellowship(s) that you are eligible to apply for based on your home country.
- Choose the specific ICO Fellowship you wish to apply for. Note that you can only apply for one fellowship at a time.
- Step 3: Upload Eligibility Check Documents :- Part of the online application process includes an Eligibility Check. You will be required to provide information to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for the selected ICO Fellowship. As part of this step, you will need to upload the following documents: A scanned copy of the photo page of your Passport. A scanned copy of your Ophthalmology Specialization Examination Certificate, confirming the successful completion of your residency in ophthalmology. If this certificate is not in English, include a certified translation into English along with the original certificate as one document. Copies of your ICO Examination Certificate(s). The ICO recommends that fellowship candidates pass one or more ICO Examinations. Department of Ophthalmology Chair’s Recommendation. A reference letter from your current or former supervisor or tutor in ophthalmology. Note that uploaded files should be in jpg, pdf, or png formats and should not exceed 20MB in size. Zip files are not accepted. If any of your certificates or recommendation letters are not originally in English, you must upload the original certificate(s) or letter(s) along with certified translations in English as a single document.
- Step 4: ICO Eligibility Review :- After submitting the required information and documents for the Eligibility Check, you will receive an email confirming that your Eligibility Check has been successfully submitted. If you do not receive this email within one business day, contact [email protected]. The ICO will review your documents, and within 10 days, you will receive an email confirming or rejecting your eligibility for the selected fellowship. If you are found eligible, log in to your ICO Account to proceed with your application. If you are not eligible, you can contact icofellowsh[email protected] for further guidance on improving your application.
- Step 5: Apply to a Host Training Center :- If you are determined eligible for the selected fellowship, you can proceed to select and apply to a Fellowship Host using the online system. Access the ICO Fellowship Host Directory, which lists Hosts by Name, Medical Center, Subspecialty, City, and Country. Select the Host that aligns with your goals and interests by clicking on the “Select Host” option under “View Host Details.” Fill out the online form and submit it. It is recommended to use this form to explain to the Host why you are interested in completing your fellowship with them and how you plan to apply the knowledge and skills gained upon your return. Please approach only one Host at a time. Contacting multiple Hosts simultaneously violates ICO policy and may lead to exclusion from the ICO Fellowship Program.
- Step 6: Host Application Review :- The Host you have selected will review your application. Allow up to two weeks to receive a response from the Host before considering further action. If the Host accepts your request, you will need to complete the Fellowship Host Acceptance form and send it to the Host for their confirmation signature. Upload the completed and duly signed form to your Fellowship application profile. Additionally, forward the completed form to the ICO Fellowship team at [email protected]. You will receive a confirmation email indicating that your application is complete and under review. If you do not receive this email within one day, contact [email protected].
ICO Fellowship Policy :- The ICO Fellowship is to commence after the date of issue of the ICO Fellowship Award Letter and is valid for a maximum period of 12 months. The ICO Fellowship award may not be used to fund ongoing or completed fellowships. Please ensure that you follow each step carefully and provide all required documents to complete your ICO Fellowship application successfully. Good luck with your application!
How to Apply for International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship?
The application process for the ICO Fellowship involves several key steps:
- Create an ICO Account: If you do not already have one, you will need to create an ICO Account.
- Select a Fellowship: After identifying your country, the ICO Fellowship(s) you are eligible for will be displayed.
- Complete Eligibility Check: You will be prompted to provide information to determine your eligibility for the selected ICO Fellowship.
- ICO Eligibility Review: Following the submission of your information, the ICO will assess your eligibility and inform you of the decision. If eligible, you will be invited to complete the application, or you will be informed if you are not eligible.
- Apply to a Host Training Center: Eligible applicants can then select and apply to a host university. Note that you may apply to only one host at a time.
- Host Application Review: The host you have chosen will review your application. If accepted, you will need to confirm the details agreed upon between you and the host. In case your request is declined, you will have the opportunity to select another host.
- Fellowship Application Submitted: Once your application is complete, it will be reviewed by the appropriate ICO Fellowship Committee.
ICO-ECF Six-Month Fellowships for Diagnosis and Therapy of Retinoblastoma
The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) and Eye Cancer Foundation (ECF) six-month training opportunity is available for young ophthalmologists from low-resource countries who wish to gain a deeper insight into retinoblastoma diagnosis and treatment. Fellows are expected to bring the acquired knowledge and skills back to their home country and take part in programs to preserve and restore vision. Award: US$ 8000 to help cover living expenses and return travel. Applications can be submitted throughout the year. For more information, reach out to [email protected].
The ICO-National Eye Institute (NEI) One-Year Fellowship in Ocular Genetics
The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) and National Eye Institute (NEI) One-Year Fellowship in Ocular Genetics is offered in collaboration of the ICO with the National Eye Institute of the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, USA. Eligible candidates are invited to apply for a twelve-month training in ocular genetics which will be served at NEI/NIH. Award: US$ 25,000 to help cover living expenses and return travel. The next application deadline will be announced in due time.
- Applicant must be a graduate of an ophthalmology residency training program.
- Specialist exam in ophthalmology must be successfully passed.
- Applicants are permanently based and work in one of the eligible countries.
- Applicant must be recommended by the ophthalmology head of a teaching institution or public service hospital in the home country.
- Applicant must be committed to return to a position at a teaching institution or public service hospital in the fellow’s home country.
- Applicant must be reasonably fluent in English.
- The ICO recommends that candidates pass one or more ICO Examinations. This is considered in the assessment of applications.
- Applicants from countries with ophthalmology societies that are an ICO Member Society will receive special consideration
USA Scholarships 2024 For International Students
ICO-Allergan Advanced Research Fellowship
The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) and Allergan Advanced Research Fellowship allows a young ophthalmologist to continue basic or clinical research at a chosen university, preferably in a foreign country to where they live. The fellowship is open to candidates from all countries. Applications will be accepted for research work in the following subspecialties: Glaucoma, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Retina, Tumours, Uveitis, Dry Eye, and Cornea. There is one fellowship awarded per year, with US$ 50,000 stipend. The application deadline 31 March each year. The ICO-Allergan Advanced Research fellow will be chosen and notified in July of the same year.
Basic Requirements:
- Applicant must be a graduate of an ophthalmology residency training program and a specialist exam in ophthalmology must be successfully passed.
- Minimum 12 months of research training must be completed
- Applicant must be under 40 years of age at the time of applying.
- Applicant must be reasonably fluent in the language of the fellowship training center and/or English.
- The ICO recommends that candidates pass one or more ICO Examinations. This is considered in the assessment of applications.
- Applicants from countries with ophthalmology societies that are an ICO Member Society will receive special consideration
Excelsior scholarship program user guide
International Council of Ophthalmology ICO Fellowship Details
- Detailed CV with publications list and impact factors
- Endorsement from the current program director
- Feasibility confirmation of chosen host university
- Detailed description of research work during the fellowship
- Sustainability statement, confirming the ability to return after the fellowship |
- | Basic Requirements | - Minimum 12 months of research training
- Online application on the ICO website
- Specialist exam in ophthalmology
- Fluency in the language of the fellowship training center
- Age under 40 at the time of applying |
- | ICO Examinations | The ICO recommends passing one or more ICO exams |
- | Special Consideration | Applicants from countries with ICO member ophthalmologic societies receive special consideration |
- | Website | Official Website |
FQAs - International Council of Ophthalmology ICO Fellowship 2024
Q: What is the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship 2024?
A: The ICO Fellowship 2024 is a fully funded scholarship program offered by the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) for international students. It provides an opportunity for young ophthalmologists from around the world to engage in basic or clinical research at a chosen university, preferably in a foreign country.
Q: What is the objective of the ICO Fellowship?
A: The primary objective of the ICO Fellowship is to enhance ophthalmic education, improve eye care, and contribute to the conservation and restoration of vision worldwide. The ICO aims to achieve this by providing opportunities for research and education in the field of ophthalmology.
Q: What level of study does the ICO Fellowship support?
A: The ICO Fellowship supports research fellowship and postdoctoral programs in the field of ophthalmology.
Q: What expenses does the ICO Fellowship cover?
A: The ICO Fellowship provides recipients with a stipend of up to US$50,000 to help cover living expenses and return travel costs during their research fellowship or postdoctoral program.
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the ICO Fellowship?
A: Eligibility criteria for the ICO Fellowship include being under 40 years of age at the time of applying, having a minimum of 12 months of research training, passing a specialist exam in ophthalmology, and being reasonably fluent in the language of the fellowship training center. Additionally, applicants from countries with ICO member ophthalmologic societies receive special consideration.
Q: How can I apply for the ICO Fellowship?
A: To apply for the ICO Fellowship, you can follow these steps:- Create an ICO Account if you don't already have one. Select the ICO Fellowship you are eligible for based on your home country. Complete the Eligibility Check, which includes uploading required documents. Await the ICO's eligibility review, which typically takes up to 10 days. If eligible, apply to a host training center by selecting and contacting a host institution. Allow the host to review your application, and if accepted, confirm details and application submission. Await the ICO Fellowship team's request for additional documentation, such as visa and insurance information.
Q: What is the duration of the ICO Fellowship?
A: The ICO Fellowship is valid for a maximum period of 12 months, commencing after the date of issue of the ICO Fellowship Award Letter. It is not intended to fund ongoing or completed fellowships.
Q: Where can I find more information and apply for the ICO Fellowship?
A: For detailed information and the application process, you can visit the Official ICO Fellowship Website.