How to apply to veterinary school

Schools of veterinary medicine have very strict pre-requisite academic requirements. These typically include courses in both organic and inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, math (usually calculus), English, and several biology courses. Applicants will want to ensure that they have or will shortly have completed all of the required course work prior to submitting their application. Admission to veterinary colleges is highly competitive. Most successful applicants have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

All schools of veterinary medicine in the U.S require a standardized admission examination. Most schools accept the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). A few provide the option of Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT), GRE or the Medical Admission Test (MCAT). Most successful applicants have scores above the 70th percentile. It is difficult to study for these types of tests as they represent cumulative knowledge over years of education. Some students do find they can make modest improvements in their scores with focused study or specialized courses.

Experience with handling and caring for animals is judged to be very important or considered necessary for successful applicants. Varied experience over several years with many types of animals in different settings is considered the most advantageous. This experience should include at least some time with a veterinary practitioner(s) in either large or small animal practice or both. Other facilities where valuable experience can be gained include; humane societies, zoos, kennels, boarding stables, racetracks, and livestock farms. A history of animal experience over several years will help demonstrate to veterinary colleges that you have a desire and an aptitude for working with animals. Applicants should keep a journal that records the approximate hours they have worked in animal facilities.

All schools of veterinary medicine require letters of recommendation. Such letters are typically written by faculty members from undergraduate institutions who know the academic achievement, dedication to veterinary medicine, and the quality of character of the applicant. Other letters of support from private veterinarians or animal care professionals who can attest to the applicant's skills and dedication can also be very helpful.

Finally many veterinary schools require an admissions interview. This provides a chance for faculty and current students within the veterinary school to meet and get to know the applicant. A positive and friendly attitude that projects a sense of academic achievement, a dedication to veterinary medicine, and goals consistent with a professional career will improve the applicant's chances for admission.

Each school of veterinary medicine is slightly different. Some have restrictive application requirements due to residency or contractual agreements with certain states. The applicant should review a number of schools that interest them and apply to a limited number that best match their application's strengths and their interests. In general it is wise to apply to more than one school but usually not warranted to apply to more than five.

If the applicant is unsuccessful in their first attempt to gain admission, it is often helpful to schedule an interview with the admissions department of the veterinary school(s) of interest. Pick a time the admission department is not overwhelmed with pressing deadlines. In most cases individuals within the admissions department will meet and candidly tell unsuccessful applicants how they might make future applications more competitive.