Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO)
ASCO is the academic leadership organization committed to advancing optometric education and research to enhance the health and well-being of the public.
SHPEP’s founding partner and core funder, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), is shifting their strategic priorities, and will end their funding of our work at the conclusion of our 2026 summer cohort. The decision is not a reflection on our program’s performance, and RWJF remains committed to making health systems more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), and RWJF proudly recognize the vast impact SHPEP has made over the past 37 years in supporting tens of thousands of future health professionals. The AAMC and ADEA are exploring the future of this program and how we may continue our mission in new ways. We will share updates in the coming year. To read more about these changes or to access the frequently asked questions, please visit our FAQs.
The 2026 application cycle for the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) and the Minority Serving Institution Pathway Initiative (MSIPI) is now open.
All materials — including one letter of recommendation and official transcript(s) — must be postmarked or time-stamped by the submission deadline. Please allow up to 10 business days for processing once materials are received. The submission deadline for this year's application is February 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.