Scholarship Opportunity for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis

Scholarship Opportunity for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis

Application for the 2025-2026 CCOA Program

The CAO, in collaboration with the Canadian Optometric Education Trust Fund (COETF), is renewing an exciting opportunity for Indigenous people working in an optometric setting who want to become Canadian Certified Optometric Assistants (CCOA)

Sponsorship includes full coverage of CCOA program registration, a face-to-face workshop, and support of up to $1000 for travel and accommodation expenses. 

Eligibility Requirements 

  • The applicant identifies as First Nations, Métis or Inuit. Proof of identity and residency is required with the application.
  • Currently employed by a CAO member optometrist.
  • Legally entitled to work following relevant provincial or territorial laws and regulations.
  • Not receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits 

The CCOA program runs from September 1 to June 6. 

The application deadline is August 15, 2025. 

For any questions, please contact ccoa@opto.ca.

Apply Now!

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INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIP (2025-2026)

The CAO, in collaboration with the Canadian Optometric Education Trust Fund (COETF), is renewing an exciting opportunity for Indigenous people working in an optometric setting who want to become Canadian Certified Optometric Assistants (CCOA). 

Sponsorship includes full coverage of CCOA program registration, a face-to-face workshop, and support of up to $1000 for travel and accommodation expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

  • The applicant identifies as First Nations, Métis or Inuit. Proof of identity and residency is required with the application.
  • Currently employed by a CAO member optometrist.
  • Legally entitled to work following relevant provincial or territorial laws and regulations.
  • Not receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits

The CCOA program runs from September 1 to June 6. 

The application deadline is August 15, 2025. 

Form

For any questions, please contact ccoa@opto.ca.