The American Optometric Association (AOA) and the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA) announced that the long-running Student Bowl will transition to a new format in 2026 under the name AOA EyeQ Championship, presented by AOAExcel.

The Student Bowl has been a fixture of Optometry’s Meeting for decades, featuring a quiz-style competition among optometry students from across the United States. The event will continue as part of Optometry’s Meeting 2026 and will be held on Thursday, June 18, in conjunction with the AOA+ experience.

“With this new chapter, we’re creating a competition shaped by student insight that delivers an exciting experience that reflects the next generation’s priorities, passion, and vision for the future of the profession,” says AOA President Jacquie M. Bowen, OD.

Optometry’s Meeting 2026 is scheduled for June 17-20 at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix. The annual event brings together optometrists, optometry students, paraoptometric staff, and industry representatives for continuing education, professional development, networking, and exhibits.

The AOA and AOSA also announced plans for AOA+, which will be held alongside Optometry’s Meeting 2026. The program is expected to bring together more than 2,000 optometry students, early-career optometrists, and optometric educators. Travel grant eligibility for AOA+ is expected to open in January 2026.

Additional details about Optometry’s Meeting 2026, AOA+, and registration opportunities are available here.