School Overview
- Degrees
- N/A
- Ownership
- Private For-Profit
- Program Length
- 4 years
- Total Enrollment
- 164
- Accreditation Status
- Accredited
- Founding Year
- 1872
- Accreditation Year
- N/A
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SDN Insights
Cost of Attendance: $352,295
Estimate repayment
Estimated loan burden for ICO using 4 years of in-state tuition, $1,500 annual fees, $3,000 monthly living expenses, government-derived local cost-of-living adjustment, $1,000 loan fees, and an 8.5% interest assumption.
Cost of Living: Near national average cost of living
Chicago, IL is close to the national average for cost of living. In the debt estimate, the government-derived local cost adjustment keeps the $3,000 monthly allowance at about $3,120 per month. Treat this as a city-level budgeting estimate, not the school's official cost of attendance.
Environment: Urban
Nestled in an area with excellent walkability and strong biking infrastructure, ICO offers students flexibility in how they get around. Whether on foot or bike, most destinations are easily accessible, making for a convenient daily routine.
Interview Feedback
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 14% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview very impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did well.
Secondary Essays for ICO
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About the School
The Illinois College of Optometry, located in Chicago, Illinois, was founded in 1872 and is one of the oldest optometry schools in the United States. It offers a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program and is known for its comprehensive clinical education, with students gaining hands-on experience at the Illinois Eye Institute, one of the largest eye care facilities in the country. The college emphasizes a strong foundation in both the basic and clinical sciences, preparing students for a variety of professional settings. Additionally, the institution is involved in research and community service, contributing to advancements in eye care and public health.
Curriculum
The curriculum at ICO is structured into a four-year program divided into preclinical and clinical phases, designed to provide a comprehensive education in optometry. The first two years focus on foundational biomedical sciences, optics, and visual science, integrating classroom learning with laboratory experiences to develop essential clinical skills. The third and fourth years emphasize clinical training, where students participate in rotations across various settings, including primary care, pediatrics, and ocular disease, both on-campus and at external sites. ICO offers unique educational tracks such as the Advanced Practice Fellowship and the Dual Degree Program, allowing students to pursue specialized interests or additional qualifications. Notable learning approaches include problem-based learning and early clinical exposure, which are integral to fostering critical thinking and practical application of knowledge.
Facilities
The Illinois College of Optometry (ICO) offers state-of-the-art facilities that include advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, and a comprehensive simulation center designed to enhance clinical training. The college's Clinical Skills Lab is equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic instruments, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in a controlled environment. ICO's library provides access to an extensive collection of optometric literature and digital resources, supporting both academic and clinical research. Additionally, the Illinois Eye Institute, located on campus, serves as a primary clinical training site where students can apply their skills in real-world settings, working with a diverse patient population under the supervision of experienced faculty.
Demographics
As of the most recent data available from the Illinois College of Optometry, the student body is composed of a diverse group of individuals, with approximately 60% identifying as female and 40% as male. The college emphasizes diversity, with students representing a wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds, including a significant percentage of Asian, Hispanic, and African American students. Geographically, the student population includes individuals from various regions across the United States, as well as international students, contributing to a rich cultural and educational environment. The college's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its efforts to recruit and support students from underrepresented groups in the field of optometry.
Last Updated: Sep 09, 2026
