ASCO Statement Regarding the Accreditation Status of the Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Optometry

The Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) is aware that the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE) has announced a decision to withdraw accreditation from the professional optometric degree program at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Optometry.

Under ACOE policies, the decision is not final during the period in which the institution may seek reconsideration or appeal. The Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Optometry has notified ASCO that it intends to file a request for reconsideration or appeal by August 16, 2026. The program’s current accreditation status and the complete description of the ACOE action are available through the ACOE’s official accreditation resources.

ACOE is the independent accrediting body for professional optometric education programs. ASCO does not make accreditation decisions and will not speculate about the review process or its eventual outcome.

ASCO recognizes that this announcement may create questions and concern, particularly for students, applicants, faculty, alumni, and other members of the optometric education community. Students and applicants should rely on information provided directly by the Inter American University of Puerto Rico and the ACOE regarding the program’s status, applicable timelines, and any implications for enrollment or program completion.

Questions concerning licensure requirements should be directed to the appropriate licensing authority at https://optometry.org/.

ASCO remains committed to advancing excellence, integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement in optometric education. ASCO supports transparent accreditation processes that protect students and the public while providing institutions with the opportunity to respond through the procedures established by the accrediting body.

ASCO will continue to monitor official developments and will update information concerning ASCO-administered programs or processes when appropriate. 

For further information please consult these official sources:
Accreditation status and actions: Accreditation Council on Optometric Education at https://theacoe.org/.
Institutional information: Inter American University of Puerto Rico at https://optonet.inter.edu/