Examinations FAQ

The examinations are designed for both ophthalmologists in training and qualified professionals who with to add the prestigious post-nominal acronym FIOF (Fellow of the International Ophthalmology Foundation) to their name. We recommend the following timeline for trainees, based on typical progression:

• Visual Sciences: Ideally taken during the first or second year of training.
• Optics, Refraction, and Instruments: Recommended for second to fourth year of training.
• Clinical Ophthalmology: Typically taken in the third to fifth year of training.

However, these are guidelines only. Your local institution may provide specific advice on when to sit for each exam. Additionally, if you feel confident in your preparation, you may choose to take the exams earlier. Qualified ophthalmologists seeking the FIOF designation may also take the exams based on their own readiness.

Yes, the Ophthalmology Foundation Examinations are conducted online. However, you must take the exam at designated examination centers located around the world.

Yes, you can use your own device to take the exam. However, your device must meet the Ophthalmology Foundation technical requirements. Full details, including system specifications and required software, can be found on the OF website. Make sure your device complies with these requirements before the exam day to ensure a smooth experience.

The examinations follow a Single Best Answer (SBA) format.  Each question includes:

• One stem (the question itself)
• Four options (answer choices)
• One correct answer (the single best option)

The exam does not have a practical component.  The written paper covers four key areas:

• Clinical Ophthalmology
• Visual Sciences
• Optics, Refraction, and Instruments

The total number of questions in each paper is as follows:

• Clinical Ophthalmology, 160 Questions
• Visual Sciences, 120 Questions
• Optics, Refraction, and Instruments, 60 Questions

• Visual Sciences, 3 hours
• Optics, Refraction, and Instruments, 1.5 hours
• Clinical Ophthalmology, 4 hours

The Ophthalmology Foundation Examinations are held at designated centers worldwide. You will select your preferred location from a drop-down list when registering for the exams. If your location is not listed, please select ‘other’ and write the location where you would like to sit. The examinations team will then endeavor to arrange a center near you.

The cost is based on the World Bank Index and will be displayed at the time of application. Pricing information can be obtained by emailing the examinations team. exams@ophthalmologyfoundation.org

The examinations are marked automatically via a computer-based system to ensure accuracy.

The pass mark is determined using the Angoff Method. This method involves expert examiners evaluating each question. To decide what a borderline competent candidate would be expected to score. The collective data is then used to set a fair and accurate pass mark for the exam.

Yes, candidates will be informed of their results with one of the following outcomes:

• Pass
• Fail
• Merit
• Distinction

These categories reflect overall performance in the exams.

Technical support is available throughout the exam. Should you face any difficulties, you can raise your hand, and the support staff will assist you. Local staff will be in contact with the Ophthalmology Foundation and MeritTrac teams for the duration of your examination.

Successful candidates who pass the Ophthalmology Foundation Examinations will be awarded the post-nominal acronym FIOF (Fellow of the International Ophthalmology Foundation). This designation reflects your achievement and professional standing in the field of ophthalmology.