Veterinary School Resources
Our fact sheet for vet school is compiled from reputable internet sources and based on our work with previous students in the field. We hope it helps you navigate and simplify the cryptic admissions process.
Veterinary School Resources
Central Application Website
Top 10 Schools (US News)
- University of California - Davis
- Cornell University
- Colorado State University
- North Carolina State University
- Ohio State University
- University of Wisconsin - Madison
- Texas A&M University - College Station
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
- Tufts University
Degree Duration (typical)
- 4 years
Application Opens
- May 13
Application Deadline
- Various -September 15
Standardized Tests Required
- GRE (most programs - sometimes interchangeable with MCAT)
- GRE Biology (some programs)
Profile of a Successful Applicant
Recommended Test Score
- 153+ verbal
- 155+ quant
- 4.0+ writing
Recommended GPA
- 3.5+
- 3.0 minimum for most programs
Course Requirements (varies)
- Biology/Zoology
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Physics
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Genetics
- Microbiology
- Statistics
- English Composition
- Humanities/Social Sciences
Letters of Rec
- 3 required for most programs
- (letters often come from vets, science professors, or work supervisors)
Recommended Experience
- 400+ or more hours of veterinary experience and animal experiences--(e.g. small animal, large animal, research, food animal, production, exotic, aquatic, wildlife, zoological medicine) with substantial depth in at least one area
- Experience working with livestock, breeding or showing various species, working at a zoo, aquarium or pet shop, or volunteering at an animal shelter
- 1-2 leadership experiences (work/extracurricular)
Typical Essay Requirement
- Personal Statement (5000 characters)
- Supplemental essays (some schools)
Timeline
6+ Months Before Applying
- Take all pre-requisite courses (finishing by the date you apply is ideal)
- Decide whom to ask for letters of recommendation
- Make a GRE and/or MCAT Prep Plan
- Sign up for a GRE and/or MCAT test date
- Last chance to boost your profile by getting additional exposure to the field, leadership positions, research, etc.
0-3 Months Before Applying
- Write your personal statement (allow yourself at least six weeks if possible)
- Identify a list of schools to apply to - 10-15 is ideal
- Order official transcripts from all undergrad institutions to check for errors and help fill out VMCAS
- Fill out VMCAS
- Touch base with letter writers
- Submit your application early - the earlier the better!
After Applying
- Send official test scores to schools (if necessary)
- Complete school-specific essay questions
- Practice your responses to sample interview questions, and do at least one mock interview
- Update schools with any developments in your grades, employment, or activities
- Fill out financial aid paperwork
- Send in deposit to schools of your choice