Admissions

Begin Your Journey with AJICO

Find the information, guidance, and application pathways needed to take the next step in your academic and professional development.

How It Works

Admission Overview

AJICO seeks learners and fellows who are capable, committed, and willing to engage in disciplined growth. Our admissions approach is meant to identify those who will benefit from the institute and contribute positively to its learning environment. The AJICO admissions process is straightforward. Just four steps from exploring programmes to receiving your offer.

Step 01

Choose Your Programme

Browse the AJICO programmes section to find the track that best fits your background, career goals, and availability. Each programme page details eligibility, duration, and what to expect.

Step 02

Check Eligibility

Review the eligibility criteria for your chosen programme. Requirements vary by track. Some require a medical degree (MBBS/ MS), others a B.Optom or relevant management or public health qualification.

Step 03

Submit Your Application

Complete the online application form and upload all required documents. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview conducted in person or via video call.

Step 04

Receive Your Offer

Successful candidates receive an offer letter within two weeks of their interview. Confirmation requires acceptance of the offer and payment of the registration fee within the specified deadline.

Who Should Apply

Eligibility by Stream

Each stream has distinct eligibility requirements. If you are unsure which stream is right for you, contact the admissions team.

Ophthalmology
  • 1MBBS from an MCI/NMC-recognised institution
  • 2Completion of rotating internship
  • 3Valid registration with State or National Medical Council
  • 4DNB track requires MS/DNB Ophthalmology or equivalent
  • 5Strong interest in community and public eye health
Optometry
  • 1Completion of Class XII (10+2) or equivalent from a recognised board
  • 2Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/ Mathematics
  • 3Minimum qualifying marks as prescribed for the programme
  • 4Demonstrated interest in vision care, eye health, and patient-centred service
  • 5Willingness to engage in clinical, community, and field-based learning experiences
NON-CLINICAL FELLOWSHIPS
  • 1Bachelor's degree from a recognised university in any relevant discipline
  • 2Background in healthcare, public health, management, social sciences, development studies, or related fields preferred
  • 3Strong interest in healthcare systems, institutional strengthening, and service delivery
  • 4Demonstrated commitment to learning, professionalism, and community impact
  • 5Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and engage with field-based learning environments

Note: Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the fellowship track and level of responsibility. Relevant work experience may be preferred for certain programmes.

Research & Public Eye Health
  • 1Bachelor's degree or higher from a recognised university in a relevant discipline
  • 2Background in healthcare, public health, medicine, optometry, social sciences, statistics, management, or related fields preferred
  • 3 Demonstrated interest in research, public health, community development, or health systems strengthening
  • 4Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities
  • 5 Willingness to engage in field-based learning, data collection, programme evaluation, and evidence generation

Note: Specific eligibility requirements may vary depending on the nature of the research project, public eye health initiative, or training pathway. Relevant academic or professional experience may be preferred for advanced opportunities.

What You Need

Application Process

Documents Required

Applicants may be required to submit the following documents as part of the admissions process:

  • Recent passport-size photograph (digital, JPG or PNG format)
  • Completed application form
  • Scanned copy of qualifying degree certificate(s)
  • Academic transcripts or mark sheets from qualifying institution(s)
  • Internship completion certificate (where applicable)
  • Medical, Optometry, Nursing, or other professional council registration certificate (where applicable)
  • Updated CV or resume
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining academic interests, career goals, and reasons for applying
  • Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
  • Copy of valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Driving Licence, etc.)
  • Proof of date of birth (if not reflected in submitted ID)
  • Experience certificate(s) from current or previous employer(s) (where applicable)
  • Research publications, conference presentations, or portfolio of work (if relevant to the programme)
  • Any additional documents specifically requested for the chosen programme
  • Note: Document requirements may vary depending on the programme. Applicants will be informed of any additional requirements during the admissions process.

Intake Dates & Deadlines

ProgrammeIntakeDeadlineSeats
DNB OphthalmologySep 202631 Jul 202600
Clinical FellowshipsSep 202631 Jul 202600
Short-Term Training/ ObservershipsSep 202631 Jul 202600
Bachelor of OptometryOct 202631 Aug 202600
Allied Ophthalmic PersonnelOct 202631 Aug 202600
Hospital AdministrationNov 202630 Sep 202600
Quality Assurance & Patient SafetyNov 202630 Sep 202600
Public Eye Health/ Community OphthalmologyNov 202630 Sep 202600
Outreach & Rural Eye Care SystemsNov 202630 Sep 202600
Health Management/ OperationsNov 202630 Sep 202600
Research Methods/ ImplementationNov 202630 Sep 202600
Research & Public Eye HealthDec 202631 Oct 202600

Ready to Train Where It Matters Most?

AJICO programmes are designed for clinicians, optometrists, public health professionals, and researchers who want to build lasting impact in underserved eye health systems. Applications for 2026 are open.

AJICO women in eye care

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful answers to questions that may arise as you explore this page.

1.

How do I apply for an AJICO fellowship programme?

2.

What is the minimum eligibility for clinical fellowships?

3.

Are there fellowship programmes available for optometrists?

4.

Is accommodation provided during the fellowship?

5.

Can I apply for multiple programmes simultaneously?