International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship – 2026

(Fully Funded – Global Research Opportunity)

Pursue cutting-edge ophthalmic research anywhere in the world!
Great news—applications for the ICO Fellowship 2026–2027 are now open to international candidates. This prestigious fellowship offers aspiring ophthalmologists the chance to advance their research in a global setting with full financial support.

In this guide, you’ll find key details about the fellowship, its benefits, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

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🔍 Fellowship Overview

The International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) Fellowship is a fully funded research opportunity designed for young ophthalmologists from around the globe. The program offers up to US$50,000 in financial support for candidates who wish to carry out basic or clinical ophthalmology research at a university or institution of their choice—ideally outside their home country.

This fellowship reflects the ICO’s global mission to enhance eye care and ophthalmic education, especially in developing nations, through robust academic and training initiatives.

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🎓 Fellowship Details

• Level of Study: Research Fellowship / Postdoctoral

• Field of Study: Ophthalmology (Various Sub-specialties)

• Host Institutions: Universities or research centers worldwide

• Program Duration: Minimum of 12 months (may vary by research plan)

• Fellowship Value: Up to US$50,000 (covers living expenses and round-trip travel)

• Application Deadlines:

  • March 31 (Annual cycle)

  • September 30 (Annual cycle)

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🧬 Research Areas Supported

Research projects may fall within the following subspecialties:

• Glaucoma

• Retina

• Cornea

• Uveitis

• Tumors

• Neuro-Ophthalmology

• Pediatric Ophthalmology

• Dry Eye Disease

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✅ Eligibility Criteria

🔹 Academic & Research Requirements:

• Proven research background and relevant work in ophthalmology

• A detailed curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and impact factors

• Strong endorsement from your current program director

• Confirmation of research feasibility from the proposed host institution

• A research continuation plan outlining the proposed work

• A sustainability statement showing support from your current institution to return post-fellowship

🔹 Basic Requirements:

• Minimum of 12 months research training commitment

• Must have successfully passed a specialist exam in ophthalmology

• Fluency in the host institution’s language

• Under 40 years of age at the time of application

• ICO exam results are highly recommended and considered during selection

• Preference is given to applicants from countries with ICO-member ophthalmologic societies

👉 View the list of ICO Member Societies
👉 More on Eligibility Requirements

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💡 Fellowship Benefits

• Up to US$50,000 stipend

  • Covers accommodation, living costs, and return travel

• International research experience at leading global institutions

• Mentorship and supervision from top experts in ophthalmology

• Professional development through exposure to new methodologies and global best practices

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📝 How to Apply for the ICO Fellowship

Follow these steps to successfully complete your ICO Fellowship application:

1. Create an ICO Account
   Register on the official ICO website if you haven’t already.

2. Select a Fellowship
   Based on your country of residence, eligible fellowship options will appear.

3. Complete Eligibility Check
   Submit the required preliminary information to assess your eligibility.

4. ICO Review Process
   Once reviewed, you’ll receive notification of your eligibility status.

5. Choose a Host Institution
   Apply to a recognized research/training center. (Note: Only one host application at a time is allowed.)

6. Host Review Process
   If accepted by the host, finalize the training details. If rejected, select another host.

7. Submit Final Application
   Once all steps are complete, your application will be reviewed by the ICO Fellowship Committee.

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🌍 Why Apply?

The ICO Fellowship is more than just financial aid—it’s an opportunity to:

• Join an international network of ophthalmology professionals

• Contribute to vision health and eye care solutions

• Engage in impactful, career-defining research

• Bring back expertise to your home country and help improve local care standards

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If you are a passionate ophthalmologist eager to deepen your research experience and make a global impact, the ICO Fellowship 2026 is the perfect stepping stone.

APPLY HERE