Veterinarians are responsible for the prevention, treatment, and diagnosis of disease in animals. They can work in private practice, zoos, wildlife parks, and the government (FDA, NIH, CDC). Education is 4 years.
Explore
Discover whether a veterinary career matches your interests, purpose, abilities and meets your lifestyle expectations:
- Read about Veterinary Careers from the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC)
- Explore careers options in Veterinary Medicine
- Read about Veterinary Specialists
- Consider primate medicine
- Learn about other vet-related career opportunities
- Careers with Animals: Information and Resources
Resources
- Learn about Vet School Admission (PDF) from the AAVMC
- Explore Veterinary Issues and AVMA Guidelines
Prepare
Confirm your interest in veterinary medicine, prepare academically, and develop the necessary skills and experience:
Academic Requirements
This is a general guideline. Please check individual schools for their specific prerequisites:
- One year of biology
- One year of general chemistry
- One year of organic chemistry (FAQ)
- One year of physics, including labs
- Biochemistry
- Human physiology
- Genetics
- Statistics
As an example, view UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine Admissions Criteria and their School's Profile of Accepted Applicants
Read about individual vet schools’ Admission Requirements
Get Experience
- Contact the UC Veterinary Medical Center—San Diego for possible research or service opportunities
- Join Student Organizations at UCSD
Apply
Applying to veterinary medical school occurs in the summer, a year before the start of the program. Identify programs that match your interests and complete an application. Some steps take more time to complete than others, so plan ahead!
Take the Standardized Test
- Requirements vary. Check with your desired schools for which tests to take.
- GRE: Prepare, practice and take the Graduate Record Examination
Write Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement is a one-page essay (not to exceed 3,000 characters) that gives veterinary admissions committees a clear picture of who you are and, most importantly, why you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
Here are a few tips to help you successfully craft an effective personal statement:
- Explain a defining moment that helped steer you toward a career in veterinary medicine. Consider using that moment as the focal point of your essay.
- Be original and thoughtful: Discuss how you would contribute to the profession and patient care, all of which will help you stand out from other applicants.
- As you are telling why you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, explain why you are good candidate for veterinary school.
Select Schools & Programs
Learn about U.S., Canadian, and international Veterinary Medical Schools. Consider curriculum, clinical training options, location, and cost.
Submit Your Application
- VMCAS: the application service that compiles your transcripts, letters, essay, and activities
- Supplemental applications for schools which require them
Gaining Experience
For any successful pre-health path, you will need to demonstrate you have experience. This includes service/volunteering, leadership, research, and/or other experiential learning opportunities.