News and notices. Comm Eye Health Vol. 12 No. 31 1999. September 01, 1999

The International Council of Ophthalmology assessments for ophthalmologists

Two tests of knowledge related to Ophthalmology will be carried out in the candidates own country on 6 April 2000 (Closing date for applications is: 31 January 2000)

Basic science

Test will consist of a multiple choice question paper:

Part I
A two-hour question paper to include questions on Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology

Part II
A one-hour question paper on Optics and Refraction

These are usually taken concurrently but can be taken separately

Those who achieve pass standard or above will receive a certificate confirming the standard achieved. This certificate is now accepted as equivalent to the basic science sections
of the ophthalmology examinations of several countries.

Clinical sciences

Test will consist of 200 multiple choice questions on:

  • General medicine

  • Ophthalmic pathology and intraocular tumours

  • Neuro-ophthalmology

  • Paediatric ophthalmology and strabismus

  • Orbit, eyelids and lacrimal system

  • External disease and cornea

  • Intraocular inflammation and uveitis

  • Glaucoma

  • Lens and cataract

  • Retina and vitreous

Candidates must have passed the International Council’s Basic Science Assessment or an equivalent recognised Basic Science examination.

Those who achieve pass standard or above will receive a certificate confirming the standard achieved.


The Test Regulations, Syllabus and Candidate Guides giving details of the criteria for entry and the test fees, are available from:
The Examination Secretary,
The International Council of Ophthalmology,
2 Wort’s Causeway, Cambridge CB1 8RN England
Telephone +44 (0)1223 244101
Fax +44 (0)1223 244079

News and notices in Comm Eye Health Vol. 12 No. 31 1999 –