(a) Purpose. — It is the intent of this program to encourage academically talented students to pursue careers as optometrists in Delaware. This program replaces the Optometric Institutional Aid Program, but does not change or limit the terms of contracts made to individuals under the provisions of the Optometric Institutional Aid Program.
(b) Awards. — (1) Awards shall be made to baccalaureate-degree holders who will enroll as full-time students in programs that prepare students for licensure as optometrists in Delaware.
(2) The Office may limit attendance to one or more designated institutions, or may allow loans to be used at any qualifying college of optometry.
(c) Repayment and forgiveness. — (1) For purposes of this program, qualifying employment shall be the practice of optometry in the State.
(2) Loans will be forgiven at a rate of 1 year of employment for 1 year of loan.