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Annual Scholarship Program

Vision Science Scholarship

$500 Annual Award for Future Eye Care Professionals

EyeCare Center of Orange County is committed to supporting the next generation of eye care professionals by investing in students who share our passion for preserving and improving vision.

Application Deadline: September 30, 2026
About the Award

Scholarship Overview

$500

Award Amount

Annual

Awarded Every Year

1 Recipient

Selected Per Year

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar has practiced optometry in Orange County for over 35 years, witnessing firsthand how quality eye care transforms lives. From children struggling in school due to undiagnosed vision problems to adults regaining clear sight through specialty contact lenses, the impact of skilled eye care professionals cannot be overstated.

The EyeCare Center of Orange County Vision Science Scholarship was established to encourage talented students to pursue careers in optometry, ophthalmology, vision science, and related fields. We believe that investing in future eye care professionals is one of the most meaningful contributions we can make to our community and the profession.

Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Vision Science Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited U.S. college or university
  • Pursuing a degree in optometry, ophthalmology, vision science, biomedical sciences, pre-med (with intent to specialize in eye care), or a directly related field
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Demonstrated interest in eye care through coursework, volunteer work, research, or clinical experience

Note: Students at Southern California College of Optometry (SCCO) at Marshall B. Ketchum University, UC Irvine, Chapman University, Cal State Fullerton, and Cal State Long Beach are particularly encouraged to apply, though the scholarship is open to students at any accredited U.S. institution.

Application Process

How to Apply

Submit all required materials by email before the deadline.

1

Write Your Essay

Write a 500-800 word essay on one of the following topics:

  • Topic A: How has a personal experience with eye care — your own or someone close to you — influenced your decision to pursue a career in vision science?
  • Topic B: What do you see as the most significant challenge facing eye care in the next decade, and how do you plan to contribute to solving it?
  • Topic C: Describe a community or population that is underserved in eye care and propose a realistic approach to improving access for them.
2

Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents to include with your application:

  • Your essay (PDF or Word document)
  • Current unofficial transcript showing GPA
  • Proof of enrollment for the current or upcoming academic year
  • One letter of recommendation from a professor, advisor, or eye care professional
  • Brief resume or CV highlighting relevant experience
3

Submit Your Application

Email all materials as attachments to:

[email protected]

Subject line: "Vision Science Scholarship Application — [Your Full Name]"

Important Dates

Scholarship Timeline

January 1

Applications Open

Application period begins. Start preparing your essay and gathering documents.

September 30

Application Deadline

All materials must be received by 11:59 PM Pacific Time.

November 15

Winner Announced

The scholarship recipient will be notified by email and announced on our website.

Selection Criteria

Applications are reviewed by Dr. Bonakdar and a selection committee. The following criteria are weighted in the evaluation:

Essay Quality

40%

Clarity of writing, depth of thought, genuine passion for eye care, and practical vision for the future.

Academic Achievement

25%

GPA, relevant coursework, and academic rigor in vision science or related disciplines.

Relevant Experience

20%

Clinical exposure, research, volunteer work, or employment in eye care settings.

Community Impact

15%

Demonstrated commitment to improving eye care access, especially in underserved communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can pre-med students apply?
Yes. Pre-med students who intend to specialize in ophthalmology or a related eye care field are eligible. Please explain your career path in your essay.
Do I need to be from Orange County?
No. The scholarship is open to students at any accredited U.S. college or university, regardless of location.
Can graduate students apply?
Yes. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible, including students currently enrolled in optometry school (O.D. programs).
Is the scholarship renewable?
The scholarship is awarded annually. Previous recipients may reapply in subsequent years but are not guaranteed renewal.
How is the scholarship paid?
The $500 award is paid directly to the recipient by check within 30 days of the announcement. It can be used for tuition, books, equipment, or other educational expenses.
When will I hear back about my application?
All applicants will be notified of the decision by November 15. The winner will be announced on our website and social media.

Invest in Your Future in Eye Care

We look forward to reading your story and supporting your journey toward a career in vision science.

Apply NowLearn About Our Practice

Questions? Email [email protected]