Pre-Optometry/Optometry Internships

IMA offers unique Optometry Internships for pre-optometry students, graduate students, and licensed optometrists. Interns work in dynamic international eye care settings alongside dedicated optometrists, ophthalmologists, and healthcare professionals.

Through partnerships with public and private facilities, they apply their skills, enhance community eye health, and gain hands-on experience. IMA is committed to improving the well-being of underserved populations through eye care clinics, public health education, and vision screening initiatives. We take a holistic approach, collaborating with local leaders to implement ethical, sustainable, and community-driven programs that address the root causes of visual impairment and blindness.

Optometry and Pre-Optometry Interns collaborate with experienced professionals in various countries, participating in eye exams, vision assessments, and treatment planning for diverse eye conditions. Interns also observe and assist in eye surgeries and patient care activities.

Designed with input from top optometry programs, this internship blends practical experience with theoretical learning. Interns strengthen clinical skills, deepen their understanding of optometry, and gain exposure to global eye health issues. The program aligns with each intern’s educational background and career goals, fostering well-rounded professional development.

As a non-profit, IMA reinvests in the communities we serve. We offer a structured environment supported by local and U.S.-based resources and comprehensive training on safety and eye care best practices. You can learn more about the reasons to join IMA in our global health initiatives.

IMA’s Pre-Optometry internships provide essential eye care support, enabling participants to gain invaluable experience in optometry specialties. Interns also explore each destination’s culture and beauty through exclusive adventure programs led by experienced guides. Guided by integrity, respect, commitment, and innovation, IMA ensures a meaningful experience where interns make a lasting impact on underserved communities worldwide.

Our emphasis on hands-on learning provides interns with a solid foundation in medical theory and practice. Through optometrist shadowing and clinical rotations, interns work closely with healthcare professionals, observe medical procedures, and participate in patient care.

Interns achieve cultural competency through language and cultural immersion activities, learning a new language, engaging with local traditions, and understanding how culture influences healthcare practices.

Global health competency is fostered through collaboration with local healthcare organizations and a focus on understanding global health issues. Interns learn about healthcare policies and systems in different countries, gaining insight into the global healthcare landscape.

Our staff provides mentorship and guidance on topics ranging from cultural etiquette to medical terminology, ensuring interns maximize their experience and achieve their goals.

Upon completion, interns receive a certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation from IMA, attesting to the knowledge, skills, and competencies gained, enhancing future academic and professional opportunities.

IMA’s Pre-Optometry/Optometry Internships provide an exceptional opportunity for interns to gain hands-on experience, expand their knowledge of optometry, and develop a global perspective on healthcare.

Our programs are carefully designed to prepare interns for successful careers in optometry, offering a comprehensive learning experience tailored to each intern’s unique needs and goals. Our optometry internships include:

International Medical Aid (IMA) offers high-quality, ethical, and impactful internship opportunities designed to benefit both our interns and the communities they serve. By choosing IMA for your Optometry Internship, you can expect the following:

Our internships offer hands-on clinical experience in optometry and ophthalmology. Participants assist with eye exams, diagnose and treat eye conditions, and help dispense corrective lenses. Interns also gain exposure to specialized areas like pediatric optometry, low vision care, and contact lens fitting, enhancing their practical skills.

We tailor internship placements to each intern’s interests, background, and skills. Collaborating with partner facilities ensures a meaningful and impactful experience for the intern and the host community.

Experienced optometrists, ophthalmologists, and healthcare professionals offer guidance, mentorship, and support throughout the internship. This close relationship allows interns to learn from their mentors' expertise, apply their knowledge in real-world situations, and receive valuable feedback.

Our internships provide a genuine understanding of the host country’s culture and traditions, fostering personal and professional growth. Through curated adventure programs, interns can enjoy activities like wildlife safaris, trekking, and cultural tours, making their experience memorable.

At IMA, we follow a strict code of ethics that prioritizes the well-being of our interns, host communities, and healthcare partners. We are dedicated to creating sustainable, community-driven initiatives that positively impact ocular health.

IMA collaborates with public and private healthcare facilities to offer diverse and rewarding internship placements for our Pre-Optometry/Optometry Interns. Depending on your specific interests and skills, you may have the opportunity to work in settings such as:

During your internship, you will stay in carefully selected, modern housing facilities close to your clinical placement. Our accommodations include amenities like comfortable beds, Wi-Fi access, and 24/7 security.

An essential aspect of IMA’s Pre-Optometry/Optometry Internships is the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of our host countries. We offer unique adventure programs to explore the stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures of East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean.

As a Pre-Optometry/Optometry Intern with IMA, you’ll improve eye health in underserved communities while gaining hands-on experience. The internship fosters personal and professional growth, helping you build clinical skills, adapt to new environments, and deepen your understanding of global eye health, while strengthening your resume and passion for the field.

Our graduate school admissions support includes help with the application process, letters of recommendation, and guidance on selecting the best healthcare programs to fit each individual’s career objectives.

To apply for the Pre-Optometry/Optometry Internship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis.

Once you have submitted the requirements mentioned below, kindly follow the process below:

International Medical Aid offers the Pre‑Optometry/Optometry Internship in diverse clinical settings, providing interns with the opportunity to gain hands‑on experience and develop specialized skills in various aspects of optometric practice. Find out more about the open opportunities in International Medical Aid through this link.