| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1872
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Type: Private, Optometry-focused
Degrees Offered: Doctor of Optometry (OD)
Campus: Urban, with modern facilities and access to diverse clinical experiences
ICO offers a four-year Doctor of Optometry (OD) program, which includes:
Preclinical coursework in anatomy, optics, and pharmacology
Hands-on clinical experience starting as early as the second year
Internships and externships at hospitals, clinics, and specialty eye care centers
ICO operates the Illinois Eye Institute (IEI), one of the largest eye care centers in the U.S., where students gain real-world experience treating patients under faculty supervision.
A bachelor’s degree (or at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework)
Strong background in sciences (biology, chemistry, physics)
OAT (Optometry Admission Test) scores
Letters of recommendation
Clinical/shadowing experience recommended
Strong clinical exposure from early in the program
Diverse patient population due to its Chicago location
High board pass rates and strong job placement
Active student life with professional organizations and networking opportunities
ICO offers a four-year professional Doctor of Optometry (OD) program, which includes:
Year 1 – Foundations of Optometry
Basic sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
Optics and vision science
Introduction to clinical procedures
Patient care and communication skills
Year 2 – Clinical Skills & Diagnostics
Ocular Disease & Pharmacology
Advanced Optometric Procedures
Hands-on clinical practice begins
Patient care at the Illinois Eye Institute (IEI)
Year 3 – Intensive Clinical Training
Increased patient care responsibilities
Specialties: Pediatrics, Contact Lenses, Vision Therapy, Low Vision Rehabilitation
Participation in external clinical rotations
Year 4 – Full-time Clinical Externships
Rotations in hospitals, private practices, and specialty clinics
Exposure to diverse cases, including ocular diseases, primary eye care, and surgical co-management
Preparation for National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO)
ICO offers one-year residency programs for optometrists seeking advanced training in specialized fields, such as:
Primary Eye Care/Ocular Disease
Pediatric Optometry & Binocular Vision
Cornea & Contact Lenses
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Vision Therapy & Rehabilitation
These residency programs provide intensive clinical training, research opportunities, and mentorship for optometrists looking to specialize further.
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
4 years |
$49,760 (2023-24 estimated) |
|
Residency Programs (Post-OD Specialization) |
1 year |
Stipend Provided (No Tuition) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
4 years |
$49,760 (2023-24 estimated) |
|
Residency Programs (Post-OD Specialization) |
1 year |
Stipend Provided (No Tuition) |
Academic Requirements
A bachelor’s degree (preferred) or at least 90 semester hours from an accredited college/university.
Strong background in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
English Language Proficiency (For non-native English speakers)
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) may be required.
Recommended TOEFL score: 80+ (Internet-Based Test).
Optometry Admission Test (OAT) or Equivalent
International students must take one of the following entrance exams:
OAT (Optometry Admission Test) – Preferred.
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) – May be considered.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – May be accepted for certain applicants.
Letters of Recommendation
Typically two or three letters, including one from an optometrist.
Clinical Experience (Recommended but Not Required)
Shadowing or working with an optometrist is highly recommended.
Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework from an accredited institution.
Prerequisite courses (must be completed before enrollment):
Subject |
Minimum Semester Hours |
|---|---|
|
Biology (with lab) |
8–10 hours |
|
General Chemistry (with lab) |
8 hours |
|
Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry |
4 hours |
|
Physics (with lab) |
8 hours |
|
Microbiology |
3–4 hours |
|
Mathematics (Algebra/Calculus) |
3–4 hours |
|
Statistics |
3 hours |
|
Psychology |
3 hours |
|
English Composition |
6 hours |
A strong science GPA is important for admission!
The OAT (Optometry Admission Test) is required.
ICO looks for competitive OAT scores (300+ recommended).
Other tests like the MCAT, DAT, or GRE may be considered in certain cases.
Step 1: Apply Through OptomCAS
ICO accepts applications via OptomCAS (Optometry Centralized Application Service).
Applications typically open in June each year.
Application deadline: March 31 (for Fall entry).
Applying early increases chances of acceptance!
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents
Official Transcripts (sent directly to OptomCAS).
OAT Scores (sent through ADA/OAT testing service).
Letters of Recommendation (2–3 required):
One from an optometrist (strongly recommended).
One from a science professor.
Additional recommendation from an employer or mentor (optional).
Personal Statement explaining:
Why you want to pursue optometry.
Your career goals.
Any relevant experiences (clinical/shadowing, volunteering, research).
Step 3: Attend an Interview (If Invited)
Selected applicants are invited for an interview (in-person or virtual).
The interview includes:
One-on-one interview with faculty.
Scenario-based questions.
Campus tour (if in-person).
A strong interview is crucial for acceptance!
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
ICO operates on a rolling admission basis, meaning early applicants receive decisions sooner.
Accepted students will receive an acceptance letter and an enrollment deposit request.
It’s recommended to apply by Fall/Winter for a higher chance of acceptance!
TOEFL (if English is not your first language) – Minimum score 80+ iBT.
F-1 Student Visa: ICO provides an I-20 form after acceptance.
Program |
Intake |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Optometry (OD) |
Fall (August Start) |
March 31 (Final Deadline) |
|
Residency Programs |
July Start |
N/A |
Rolling Admissions: ICO reviews applications as they are received, so early applications have a higher chance of acceptance.
Recommended Application Submission: Fall/Winter before the intended start year.
Bachelor’s Degree (Preferred) – At least 90 semester hours of undergraduate coursework from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA: No official cutoff, but competitive applicants typically have a GPA of 3.2+ (on a 4.0 scale).
Prerequisite Courses (Must be completed before enrollment):
Subject |
Minimum Semester Hours |
|---|---|
|
Biology (with lab) |
8–10 hours |
|
General Chemistry (with lab) |
8 hours |
|
Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry |
4 hours |
|
Physics (with lab) |
8 hours |
|
Microbiology |
3–4 hours |
|
Mathematics (Algebra/Calculus) |
3–4 hours |
|
Statistics |
3 hours |
|
Psychology |
3 hours |
|
English Composition |
6 hours |
Science courses should be completed within the last 10 years.
OAT (Optometry Admission Test) – Required (300+ recommended).
ICO may also consider MCAT, DAT, or GRE in certain cases.
TOEFL (if English is not the first language) – Minimum 80 iBT.
F-1 Student Visa – ICO provides I-20 documentation for visa processing.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ICO Institutional Scholarships |
High academic performance (GPA & OAT scores) |
N/A |
Automatically considered upon admission |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievement |
Up to $50,000 (over 4 years) |
Awarded to top applicants |
|
Dean’s Scholarship |
Academic excellence & leadership |
N/A |
Competitive selection |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Underrepresented minority students in optometry |
N/A |
Promotes diversity in the profession |
|
Private & External Scholarships |
(offered by AOA, AAO, and other organizations) |
$1,000–$5,000 |
Students must apply separately |
|
Illinois Optometric Association (IOA) Scholarships |
Illinois residents pursuing optometry |
N/A |
Based on residency & academic performance |
|
Endowed & Alumni Scholarships |
Based on financial need and academic achievement |
N/A |
Awarded after enrollment |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Illinois Eye Institute (IEI) |
One of the largest optometry clinics in the U.S., providing hands-on clinical training. |
|
Lecture Halls & Labs |
State-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and simulation centers. |
|
Library & Study Areas |
Modern library with optometry resources, study rooms, and computer access. |
|
Fitness Center |
On-campus gym, including a basketball court and fitness equipment. |
|
Student Lounge & Recreation |
Lounge areas, game rooms, and student activity spaces. |
|
Dining Services |
Meal options available, but no full cafeteria (students often cook or eat off-campus). |
|
Student Organizations |
Includes clubs like SVOSH, NOSA, and International Optometric Student Association. |
ICO offers on-campus housing in its Residential Complex (RC), a dormitory-style building directly connected to the main campus. Students can also choose to live off-campus in nearby apartments.
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus – Single Room (RC Complex) |
Fully furnished, private bedroom, shared kitchen, lounge, fitness center, 24/7 security |
$9,390 |
|
On-Campus – Double Room (RC Complex) |
Shared bedroom, shared kitchen and common areas |
$7,990 |
|
Off-Campus Apartment (Estimated) |
Studio or shared apartment near ICO |
$12,000 – $18,000 (varies by location) |
On-campus housing is optional but highly recommended for first-year students.
ICO students begin clinical exposure early, working at the Illinois Eye Institute (IEI) and other affiliated clinics. The curriculum is demanding, but hands-on learning opportunities help students gain real-world experience.
ICO has several professional, cultural, and recreational organizations, including:
Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (SVOSH) – Provides eye care to underserved communities globally.
National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) – Supports minority students in optometry.
Private Practice Club – Helps students prepare for business and practice management.
Sports Vision Club, Contact Lens Club, and Pediatric Optometry Club – Specialized interest groups.
Fitness & Wellness: ICO has an on-campus gym, basketball court, and fitness classes.
Annual Events: Students participate in Eyeball (ICO's formal dance), White Coat Ceremony, and Optoberfest (fall festival).
Exploring Chicago: Students enjoy concerts, food festivals, museums, and sports events in one of the largest cities in the U.S.
Most first-year students live in ICO’s Residential Complex (RC), which fosters a strong sense of community. There are lounges, study areas, and game rooms, making it easy to interact with peers.
Student Counseling Services: ICO offers mental health and academic support.
Career Services: Guidance on externships, residencies, and job placements.
Diversity & Inclusion: ICO promotes a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
Over 90% of ICO graduates secure employment or residency placements within six months of graduation.
Many graduates start working immediately in private practice, corporate optometry, hospitals, or vision research.
ICO graduates are highly sought after due to their extensive clinical experience at the Illinois Eye Institute (IEI).
ICO graduates pursue careers in:
Private Practice Optometry – Owning or working in independent eye care clinics.
Corporate Optometry – Working for chains like LensCrafters, Walmart, and Visionworks.
Hospital-Based Optometry – Providing specialized care in medical centers.
Residency Training – Specializing in fields like ocular disease, pediatrics, or vision therapy.
Academia & Research – Teaching or conducting research in vision science.
Military or Public Health Services – Serving in government health programs like the VA (Veterans Affairs) hospitals.
ICO offers one-year residency programs in specialized optometry fields, and graduates can also apply for nationwide residencies.
80+% of ICO graduates who apply for residencies get accepted into top programs.
Residency options include ocular disease, cornea & contact lenses, pediatrics, vision rehabilitation, and more.
ICO provides career development resources, including:
On-Campus Career Fairs & Networking Events – Connect with employers and alumni.
Job Listings & Employer Partnerships – ICO has a dedicated Career Center for job postings.
Practice Management Courses – Helps students learn how to start or manage an optometry practice.
Externship Program – Fourth-year students complete externships in diverse settings, building experience and employer connections.
Entry-Level Optometrist Salary: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Experienced Optometrists (5+ years): $130,000 – $160,000 per year.
Optometrists in Private Practice: Can earn $200,000+ with ownership.
The Illinois College of Optometry (ICO) has a competitive admission process, with an estimated acceptance rate of around 25-30%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only about 25 to 30 are admitted.
ICO selects students based on several factors:
Strong Academic Record – A GPA of 3.2 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) is recommended.
OAT Score – Competitive applicants typically score 300+ on the Optometry Admission Test (OAT).
Prerequisite Coursework – Completion of biology, chemistry, physics, math, and psychology courses.
Clinical Experience – Shadowing or working with an optometrist strengthens the application.
Letters of Recommendation – Preferably from an optometrist and a science professor.
Interview Performance – Selected applicants must pass an interview to secure admission.
Address:
Illinois College of Optometry (ICO)
3241 S. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60616
United States
