Veterinary Medicine
Becoming a veterinarian involves meticulous planning and dedicated preparation. This guide outlines essential steps, including understanding prerequisite coursework, preparing for standardized tests like the GRE and CASPer, navigating the application process through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS), and gaining relevant experience.
There are 33 veterinary schools in the United States and each school sets its requirements for coursework. Students need to check with each program for admission requirements for the recommended list of coursework.
Each of the following sciences is generally required:
- Biology/Zoology
- Biochemistry
- Physics
- General Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- English Composition
- Math/Statistics
Most programs require experience hours for admission–check with each program regarding the specific requirements.
Students will need to have strong communication skills for this field.
Only 8 of the 33 veterinary schools require the GRE. Some veterinary schools also require the BIO GRE. Some schools may use the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) instead of the GRE.
There are currently 16 veterinary schools that require students to complete the CASPer Test. CASPer is a situational judgment test used to assess soft skills and the personal characteristics necessary for students to be successful in a graduate veterinary program.
When should I take the GRE?
Students should take the GRE when they feel ready. Generally, the GRE is taken during your junior year of college. Scores need to be back in time to meet the Veterinary College Application Service (VMCAS) deadline.
Create a study plan for the GRE:
Step 1: Gather Information about GRE
Step 2: Take a practice test
Step 3: Gather study materials
Step 4: Make a study calendar
Step 5: Study!
Step 6: Prepare for test day
How many times should I take the GRE?
Ideally, you should take the GRE when you are prepared. Students may decide to re-test to improve their score. Check with the individual program to see how they will consider your scores for admission.
How long are GRE scores valid?
GRE scores are valid for up to five years from your test date. Students should verify with each program if they will need newer scores.
Is the exam expensive?
The GRE costs $205.
The Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) application launches in January.
Important application dates can be found here.
There is one deadline for all the schools participating in VMCAS. There are no exceptions given if students miss the deadline.
All the veterinary schools in the United States (except for the two in Texas) participate in the VMCAS.
There are five Canadian veterinary schools, and three participate in VMCAS.
There are 16 international veterinary schools and 11 participate in the VMCAS.
Students should attempt to have their applications completed early. This will allow applicants time to make corrections if there are errors in the application.
The cost to apply is $220 for the first application and $120 for each additional application. VMCAS does offer a fee assistance program to help with the cost of applying to veterinary school.
- You can major in anything! Most students choose a biology or chemistry degree because the required science coursework fits well within their degree plan. art, psychology, criminal justice, etc., and still apply to veterinary schools if they meet the admissions requirements.
- For 2021 and moving forward, students are encouraged to take a letter grade option for required coursework over pass/fail option.
FRESHMAN YEAR
- Sign up on the pre-health listserv.
- Ensure you register for the correct science courses (general biology and general chemistry your first year).
- Join the Pre-Health Club on campus.
- Focus on your grades and develop good time management and study skills to help you start successfully.
- Start researching the admissions requirements for the veterinary schools you wish to attend.
SOPHOMORE YEAR
- Continue to focus on grades.
- Think about what aspect of veterinary science interests you and gain experience through part-time employment, job shadowing, research and/or volunteering. Make the experience meaningful to you, not simply because you think it looks good.
- Get to know faculty to ask for letters of recommendation when you are ready to apply.
- Attend admissions fairs, open houses, or events at the schools you are interested in to learn about the different programs and become familiar with each school’s admissions process.
JUNIOR YEAR
- Continue to focus on grades.
- Make a study plan and begin reviewing for the GRE.
- Ensure that you have met or are meeting the requirements for admissions to the different programs you are interested in.
- Register and take the GRE.
- Create a profile on the VMCAS website and begin work on your application. Take your time on the application so you do not make mistakes and delay acceptance on your application.
SENIOR YEAR
- Continue to focus on grades.
- Certify and submit your VMCAS application.
- Verify that all materials have been submitted to each veterinary school.
- Respond to interview requests promptly and professionally.
- Notify all schools of your decisions as early as possible.
- Email prehealth@seattleu.edu of your final decision.
- Send thank you cards as a courtesy to everyone who assisted you.
- Complete the FAFSA for the medical school you plan to attend.