For international students, the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship 2026–2027 offers full funding. The fellowship recipient receives a stipend of up to US$50,000 to assist with living expenses and airfare back home. Young ophthalmologists worldwide who wish to do basic or clinical research at a selected university are eligible to apply for the ICO-Allergan Advanced Research Fellowship. Promoting ophthalmic education to improve eye care and aid in the preservation and restoration of vision worldwide is one of the ICO’s primary goals and responsibilities. The ICO offers educational programs and works to advance ophthalmic education, especially in poor countries, in order to accomplish this goal.
Summary:
- Level of Study: Research Fellowship, Postdoctoral
- Institution(s): The chosen university,(preferably in a foreign country where they live)
- Study in: All over the world
- Deadline: March 31 / September 30 (each year)
- Funded: Fully Funded
Benefits:
A stipend of up to US$50,000 is awarded to the recipient of an International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship to assist with living expenses and return travel.
Eligibility Criteria:
This scholarship requires the following qualifications:
- Eligible Countries: All World Countries.
- Required Language: English
- Basic Requirements:
- Applications will be accepted for research work in the following sub-specialties: Glaucoma, Neuro-Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Retina, Tumours, Uveitis, Dry Eye, and Cornea.
- Copy of specialist exam in ophthalmology that must be successfully passed.
- Applicants must be reasonably fluent in the language of the fellowship training center.
- Applicants must be under 40 years of age at the time of applying.
- Minimum 12 months of research training.
- Online application on the ICO website.
- The ICO recommends that candidates pass one or more ICO exams. We consider this in the assessment of applications from HERE.
- Applicants from countries with ophthalmologic societies that are Members of the ICO will receive special consideration. To learn more about members of the ICO, click HERE.
- Research Requirements:
Description of previous work in the field of application
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- Detailed CV, including a detailed publications list and impact factors
- Endorsement of the current program director
- Feasibility confirmation of the chosen host university
- A detailed description of how research work should be continued during the fellowship
- Sustainability statement, e.g., confirmation from the present program director that the applicant may return after his/her fellowship and resume his/her position.
How Can I Apply for a Fellowship with the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO)?
To apply for this fellowship, please take the following actions:
Choose a Fellowship: The ICO Fellowship(s) for which you qualify will be displayed once your nation has been selected.
Final Eligibility Check: To ascertain your eligibility for the chosen ICO Fellowship, you will be required to submit information.
Application for Fellowship Filed: The relevant ICO Fellowship Committee will assess your application after notifying you when it is complete.
Review of ICO Eligibility: Your eligibility will be assessed once the ICO receives your information. After receiving notification of the decision, you will either be told that you are ineligible or invited to finish the application.
