All incoming student applications are automatically evaluated during the admissions process for scholarship consideration. Note: There is not a separate scholarship application for incoming first-year students.
While scholarship opportunities for incoming students are limited, enrolled ICO students have exclusive access to nearly a half-million dollars in scholarships and awards that the College distributes each year. In addition, ICO tracks more than 100 public scholarships and awards. These additional opportunities are always shared first with students and can be pursued further with the Offices of Student Development and Student Financial Services.
The following scholarships are offered exclusively by the Illinois College of Optometry to incoming students:
Presidential Scholarships
A limited number of Presidential Scholarships, which are in the amount of one-half of the yearly tuition, are awarded annually. Presidential Scholarships are competitive and are typically awarded early in the application cycle. Applicants should have demonstrated outstanding academic performance at the undergraduate level, possess a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher, an OAT score of 350 or higher, and exhibit outstanding academic promise for a professional education and ability for making a contribution to the ICO community and the profession. Please note, applicants are automatically considered for this prestigious award during the admissions process and early applicants receive greater consideration.
Trustees Scholarships
This scholarship fund was established to encourage outstanding students to select ICO as their school of choice for professional education. The amounts of the awards vary based upon the available funds in a given year. Please note, applicants are automatically considered for this award during the admissions process and early applicants receive greater consideration.
Illinois College of Optometry Scholarships for Underrepresented Populations
The Scholarships for Underrepresented Populations were established to encourage students from underrepresented minority populations (African American, Hispanic/Latino, or Native American) to pursue a career in Optometry and to select ICO as their school of choice. The recipient should have demonstrated outstanding academic performance at the undergraduate level, possess a professional demeanor, demonstrate high ethical standards and integrity, and exhibit outstanding academic promise for a professional education and ability for making a contribution to the ICO community and the profession. Upon being selected to interview, eligible candidates should notify the Office of Admissions of their interest in being considered for this scholarship. A limited number of scholarships, which are in the amount of $5,000, are awarded annually.
