Veterinary Medicine

Overview

Veterinarians are highly trained medical professionals who provide for the health and quality of life of all kinds of animals. Preparing yourself to apply to the veterinary schools of your choice involves completing veterinary school prerequisite courses, getting good grades in all of your courses, gaining experience in the field (through work, volunteering, and shadowing), and taking the entry exam.

As a pre-veterinary student, you can major in anything. There is not a specific major that all pre-veterinary students must have. Veterinary schools care that you do well in your major and in your pre-vet coursework. Think about what interests you and what will best prepare you to be the best veterinary care provider you can be.

Application

Primary Applications

Students will apply the year prior to their intended start date. Please be sure to check the application deadlines for the veterinary programs of your choice.

  1. Take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam), if needed
  2. Submit the VMCAS application (Veterinary Medical College Application Service)

Visit the Apply page for more on prerequisite coursework and grades, transcripts, activities, personal statements and letters of recommendation in general.

Secondary Applications

When you are invited, submit secondary applications as necessary for the schools to which you are applying. These typically involve school-specific writing responses and interviews. Not all veterinary programs require this step.

Resources

VMCAS (Veterinary Medical College Application Service)

Most veterinary schools will conduct interviews as part of the secondary application process. Students are advised to prepare for their interviews by scheduling a mock interview with the Natural Science & Pre Health Professional Pathways Advisor. Students should also become familiar with the type of questions that may be asked during their interview.