Connecting Ophthalmologists from Around the World to Achieve Eye Health for Everyone
Connecting Ophthalmologists from Around the World to Achieve Eye Health for Everyone
Passing the ICO Advanced Examination, along with a local face-to-face ophthalmology examination, entitles the successful candidate to use the post-nominal acronym FICO (Fellow of the International Council of Ophthalmology).
The Advanced Examination can be taken after passing the Standard Examinations which are divided into three subject areas:
Visual Sciences;
Optics, Refraction and Instruments;
and Clinical Ophthalmology.
The Clinical Ophthalmology examination is offered to ophthalmologists who have passed the Visual Sciences, and Optics, Refraction and Instruments examinations.
Change in exception for entry to the FRCS Ophthalmology of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
From 1 January 2028, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow will no longer accept ICO examination qualifications as exemptions for entry to the FRCS Ophthalmology Part 1, 2 and 3 examinations.  Candidates who hold ICO qualifications and have attempted FRCS Ophthalmology Part 2 or Part 3 prior to 1 January 2028 will be permitted to remain in the exam system and continue to sit FRCS exams through to completion. Full details of the transitional arrangements can be found on the ICO Exemption: Transitional Rules document that can be downloaded HERE.