Transitions, part of the EssilorLuxottica group, is now accepting applications for the Transitions Optical Advancement educational grant program. The application period runs until April 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

The program will award five $1,000 grants to high school seniors or recent graduates planning to attend an opticianry school in the U.S. Additionally, two grants of $5,000 each will be awarded to optometry students in their first, second, or third year at an accredited U.S. school or college.

Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status.

“We are proud that our Transitions Optical Advancement grant program can help ease financial burden for students aspiring to join the optical industry and shape the future of compassionate, patient-centered care,” says Arlene Barringer, senior marketing manager, trade communications, Transitions.

Interested candidates can apply online. Required materials include:

• A one-page letter of recommendation from a teacher or professor
• An official high school or college transcript
• A maximum three-minute audio response addressing how they embody Transitions' values of innovation, service, and education, as well as their perspective on inclusivity in the optical industry and their aspirations for improving patient outcomes

The Transitions Optical Advancement Board, consisting of optometrists, ophthalmologists, and opticians, will evaluate all applications. Grant recipients will be publicly announced in May 2025.

Winners may also have the opportunity to become a Transitions Change Agent as part of the company’s peer-to-peer program. Additionally, they could receive an invitation to the Transitions Academy in Orlando, FL, an industry event that offers networking, educational, and career development opportunities.