Optometry Loan Grant Program
Now accepting applications for the 2021-22 award year. Eligible students are selected on a first-come first-serve basis, so be sure to submit your application and required documentation as soon as possible.
Student Eligibility
The eligible student must:
- be a Virginia domicile for at least one full year,
- enroll full-time in an approved Optometry program at a qualified institution, and
- complete and sign the Optometry Grant Loan Application and Promissory Note
Approved Schools
Colleges and universities fully accredited by the American Optometric Association, Accreditation Council on Optometric Education and located within the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii.
As of July, 2019, these institutions include the following:
Ferris State University Michigan College of Optometry
Illinois College of Optometry
Indiana University School of Optometry
New England College of Optometry
Northeastern State University College of Optometry
NOVA Southeastern University College of Optometry
The Ohio State University College of Optometry
Pacific University College of Optometry
Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University
Southern California College of Optometry
Southern College of Optometry
State University of New York State College of Optometry
University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry
University of California, Berkley College of Optometry
University of Houston College of Optometry
University of Missouri, St. Louis College of Optometry
Approved Programs
Only programs leading directly to a career in optometry, such as the Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree.
Award Amount
$5,000 unless otherwise authorized by law, awarded in a single disbursement.
Award Restrictions
The program award, when combined with other gift assistance, cannot exceed the student's financial need (annualized Cost of Attendance, as determined by the institution, less annualized gift assistance.)
Renewal Criteria
Renewal students must submit a:
- letter requesting renewal of award,
- a completed Optometry grant Loan Promissory Note, and
- verification of continued enrollment into an approved degree program.
Renewal students are prioritized if an application packet is submitted by June 1 prior to the academic year for which the award is sought. Awards may be renewed for up to two years. A student may receive an award for no more than the number of years required to complete the degree program.
Student Withdrawal
If the student withdraws after the census date, the award will be fully refundable back to SCHEV.
Post Enrollment Process
Student repayment and work requirements are detailed within the Optometry grant Loan Promissory Note. Recipients must work full-time as an Optometry Professional in the Commonwealth of Virginia for 2 years for each promissory note signed.