Best Veterinary Medicine Schools

Jordan Stewart-Rozema, Ph.D.
By
Updated on May 3, 2024
Edited by
Reviewed by
Our Integrity Network

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Do you love working with animals? You may be considering becoming a veterinarian. The first step to embarking on this rewarding career is to apply to vet school.

We’ve ranked the best veterinary medicine schools in the country to help you get started. You can also find out more about the path to becoming a veterinarian, including how long the process takes and what it may cost.

Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Loading...
Loading...Learn More
Visit Site
Add up to three schools to compare

Best Veterinary Schools and Programs in the United States

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1

University of Pennsylvania

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Pennsylvania provides a variety of programs suitable for in-person and online study. The private college offers 93 bachelor's programs and 141 master's programs. Students seeking remote study can choose from one of one online bachelor's degree and three online master's degrees.

Whether in person or online, enrollees benefit from a rigorous curriculum, engaged faculty, and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers complete industry-specific and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Enrollees can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as internships and externships.

Throughout their studies, learners benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. The financial aid office connects students with funding opportunities and can help prospective enrollees determine their eligibility for financial aid. The college notes that approximately 59% of all incoming students receive financial aid. Out of all applicants, 8% are admitted to the college.

6%

Online Enrollment

$51,156

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

98%

Retention Rate

$51,156

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
26,675
Institution Type
Private
#2

Cornell University

  • Ithaca, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

From its campus in Ithaca, New York, Cornell University offers a variety of college-level programs to diverse learners. The private college offers 97 bachelor's degrees and 119 master's degrees. 

All students benefit from a rigorous core curriculum, skilled faculty, and supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers complete coursework that covers foundational and advanced topics relevant to their field. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies. Learners can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Around 62% of all enrollees benefit from financial aid. Of all its applicants, 11% receive admittance.

4%

Online Enrollment

$56,550

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$56,550

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
24,027
Institution Type
Private
#3

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Indiana, Purdue University-Main Campus offers premier programs to students from all walks of life. The public college offers 145 bachelor's degrees and 81 master's degrees. For students seeking remote study, the college offers 20 online master's programs.

Students benefit from skilled faculty and a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Enrollees complete advanced and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their field of study. To further their learning, degree-seekers can pursue internships, collaborate on faculty-driven research projects, and explore other learning opportunities.

Enrollees can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. To learn more about funding opportunities for education, students can meet with the financial aid office. Given the generosity of the college, 65% of all admitted students receive financial aid. Institutional support contributes to the college's 82% graduation rate.

22%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,208

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

91%

Retention Rate

$28,010

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
#4

Tufts University

  • Medford, MA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students looking to earn a flexible degree should consider an education through Tufts University. Degree-seekers benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Once enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to their field. Enrollees can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

Learners can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance throughout their studies. Degree-seekers can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. According to the institution, 45% of all incoming students receive financial aid. The college reports a 15% admission rate and a 94% graduation rate.

3%

Online Enrollment

$57,324

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

96%

Retention Rate

$57,324

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
15%
Students Enrolled
11,878
Institution Type
Private
#5

University of Wisconsin-Madison

  • Madison, WI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students seeking flexible hybrid study should consider enrolling at University of Wisconsin-Madison. The public institution provides 128 bachelor's degrees and 147 master's degrees. Learners seeking remote study can choose from one online bachelor's program and three online master's programs.

These learning modalities enable students to learn at their own pace. While enrolled, students complete industry-specific and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Degree candidates can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.

While enrolled, students can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective students seeking to fund their studies can meet with the financial aid office to explore scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. Of those admitted to the college, 61% receive financial aid. Of all applicants, 54% receive admittance to the college.

18%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,273

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

95%

Retention Rate

$36,333

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
44,257
Institution Type
Public
#6

University of Georgia

  • Athens, GA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Georgia provides numerous educational opportunities from its main campus in Athens. The college boasts 129 bachelor's programs and 116 master's programs. Students seeking remote study can choose from one of two online bachelor's programs and 16 online master's programs.

These learning modalities enable degree candidates to learn at their own pace. Enrollees complete foundational classes and subject-specific coursework throughout their studies. Degree-seekers can further their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships.

The college connects students with numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. According to the institution, 97% of all incoming enrollees receive financial aid. Out of all applicants, 45% are admitted to the college.

14%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,790

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

96%

Retention Rate

$28,830

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
38,920
Institution Type
Public
#7

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

North Carolina State University at Raleigh provides numerous educational opportunities from its main campus in Raleigh. Undergraduate students can enroll in one remote bachelor's program or opt for in-person study across 90 programs. The institution also offers 38 online master's programs.

Degree-seekers across modalities benefit from robust coursework, skilled faculty, and flexible study options. While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework in their subject area. Enrollees can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as internships and externships.

Learners can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities. According to the institution, 68% of all incoming students receive financial aid. The college admits 45% of all applicants and boasts an 82% graduation rate.

41%

Online Enrollment

$ 6,535

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

94%

Retention Rate

$26,654

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
36,304
Institution Type
Public
#8

University of Florida

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Florida supports in-person and online programs from its main campus in Gainesville. The public institution provides 102 bachelor's degrees and 126 master's degrees. Remote learners can choose from 19 online bachelor's programs and 42 online master's programs.

Whether in person or online, enrollees benefit from a rigorous curriculum, engaged faculty, and experiential learning opportunities. Degree-seekers complete foundational classes and subject-specific coursework. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

Learners can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Degree candidates can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Of all enrollees, 92% receive internal and external funding awards. Of all applicants, 37% receive admittance to the college.

46%

Online Enrollment

$ 4,477

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$25,694

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
52,407
Institution Type
Public
#9

University of Maryland-College Park

  • College Park, MD
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students seeking flexible hybrid study should consider enrolling at University of Maryland-College Park. The public college offers 148 bachelor's programs and 132 master's  programs. Enrollees continuing their education can select from 132 master's degrees, three of which are fully remote.

Whether in person or online, learners benefit from a rigorous curriculum, engaged faculty, and experiential learning opportunities. Degree candidates complete industry-specific and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Participants can explore collaborative opportunities throughout the duration of their program, including faculty-led research projects, internships, and professional activities.

While enrolled, students can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Given the generosity of the college, 66% of all admitted students receive financial aid awards. The institution reports an 87% graduation rate.

19%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,824

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

95%

Retention Rate

$34,936

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
40,743
Institution Type
Public
#10

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Minneapolis, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities provides premier study opportunities to students through its hybrid programs. Undergraduate students can pursue 135 programs while advanced students can enroll in one of 171 master's programs.

Every student benefits from a supportive learning community, complete with skilled faculty and industry-relevant coursework. Enrollees complete advanced and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their field of study. Degree candidates can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as internships and externships.

Students can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program. Prospective applicants can speak with the financial aid office to determine scholarship eligibility. The college offers a variety of financial aid awards, with 81% of all enrollees receiving aid. The institution reports an 83% graduation rate.

30%

Online Enrollment

$13,318

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$31,616

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
51,327
Institution Type
Public
#11

Michigan State University

  • East Lansing, MI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Michigan State University offers exceptional programs for learners from all walks of life. The school supports 119 bachelor’s degrees and 126 master’s degrees from its main campus in East Lansing. 

Across modalities, students benefit from rigorous coursework, premier faculty, and industry-specific learning opportunities. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. To further their learning, students can pursue internships, collaborate on faculty-driven research projects, and explore other learning opportunities.

Degree-seekers benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Students can learn more about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities that can be applied to their education through the financial aid office. Out of all incoming students, 70% receive financial aid. Of all applicants, 71% receive admittance to the college.

26%

Online Enrollment

$15,555

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

91%

Retention Rate

$40,384

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
49,809
Institution Type
Public
#12

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

  • Blacksburg, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is a Blacksburg-based institution providing college-level degrees to learners near and far. This public college supports 73 bachelor's degree and 69 master's degrees. 

Online and on-campus learning modalities enable students to learn at their own pace. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Enrollees can pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities.

Students benefit from institutional resources, including career services and academic advising. To learn more about funding opportunities for education, learners can meet with the financial aid office. Of those admitted to the college, 65% receive financial aid awards. Of all its applicants, 70% receive admittance.

32%

Online Enrollment

$11,420

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$29,960

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
36,383
Institution Type
Public
#13

Washington State University

  • Pullman, WA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Pullman, Washington State University offers premier programs to students from all walks of life. The school supports 151 bachelor’s degrees and 106 master’s degrees. Graduate students can enroll in one of 106 master's programs, 12 of which are fully remote.

Students in either degree modality benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Once enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to their field. Learners can collaborate with faculty on research projects, pursue internships, and explore other experiential learning opportunities.

Throughout their studies, students can access institutional resources and receive academic and professional guidance. To learn more about funding opportunities for education, students can meet with the financial aid office. Typically, 89% of all admitted degree-seekers receive financial aid. Of all enrollees, 60% graduate.

21%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,953

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

79%

Retention Rate

$24,531

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
31,607
Institution Type
Public
#14

Otterbein University

  • Westerville, OH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

A leader in hybrid education, Otterbein University supports in-person and online learning opportunities from its main campus in Westerville, Ohio. Undergraduate students can opt for in-person study across 85 programs. 

Degree-seekers benefit from rigorous coursework, premier faculty, and industry-specific learning opportunities. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework as part of their program curriculum. Degree candidates can further their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships.

Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. The college discloses that 100% of all incoming students receive some form of financial aid. Of all its applicants, 80% receive admittance.

7%

Online Enrollment

$32,024

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

82%

Retention Rate

$32,024

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
2,853
Institution Type
Private
#15

University of Kentucky

  • Lexington, KY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students looking to earn a flexible degree should consider an education through University of Kentucky. The public institution provides 105 bachelor's degrees and 108 master's degrees. Learners seeking remote study can explore four online bachelor's programs and nine online master's programs.

Students in either modality benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Enrollees complete foundational classes and subject-specific coursework throughout their studies. Participants can explore collaborative opportunities throughout the duration of their program, including faculty-led research projects, internships, and professional activities.

Degree candidates can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Students can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. According to the institution, 94% of all incoming students receive financial aid. The college reports a 96% admission rate, and a 66% graduation rate.

27%

Online Enrollment

$11,011

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

85%

Retention Rate

$29,331

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
29,402
Institution Type
Public
#16

University of Idaho

  • Moscow, ID
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Moscow, University of Idaho offers exceptional programs for learners from all walks of life. Presently, the college supports 138 bachelor's degrees, with four options providing remote study. Learners can also choose from seven online master's programs.

Every student benefits from a supportive learning community, complete with skilled faculty and industry-relevant coursework. Degree-seekers complete coursework that covers foundational and advanced topics relevant to their field. To further their learning, enrollees can pursue internships, collaborate on faculty-driven research projects, and explore other learning opportunities.

The college connects students with numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. The financial aid office connects learners with funding opportunities and can help prospective enrollees determine their eligibility for financial aid. Typically, 96% of all admitted students receive financial aid. Out of all applicants, 78% are admitted to the college.

32%

Online Enrollment

$ 6,182

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

77%

Retention Rate

$25,418

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
11,926
Institution Type
Public
#17

Ohio State University-Main Campus

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Located in Columbus, Ohio State University-Main Campus provides premier study opportunities to students through its hybrid  programs. Learners can choose from 155 bachelor's programs and 119 master's programs. For distance learners, the college offers two online bachelor's degrees and 12 online master's degrees.

These learning modalities enable degree-seekers to learn at their own pace. Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework in their subject area. To further their learning, students can pursue internships, collaborate on faculty-driven research projects, and explore other learning opportunities.

Degree candidates can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies. Prospective applicants can meet with an financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities for their education. Typically, 79% of all admitted students receive financial aid. Of all enrollees, 86% graduate.

34%

Online Enrollment

$10,197

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

94%

Retention Rate

$31,174

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
61,391
Institution Type
Public
#18

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a public institution, provides a variety of programs suitable for in-person and online study. To date, the college offers 135 bachelor's degrees and 131 master's degrees. Learners can also pursue remote study, choosing from one online bachelor's degree and 30 online master's degrees.

Enrollees in both modalities connect with premier faculty and gain skills and knowledge from industry-relevant coursework. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. To further their learning, students can pursue internships, collaborate on faculty-driven research projects, and explore other learning opportunities.

Learners benefit from institutional resources including career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities and determine eligibility. Around 64% of all enrollees benefit from financial aid. Of all enrollees, 85% graduate.

39%

Online Enrollment

$14,188

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$33,127

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
#19

University of California, Davis

  • Davis, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

University of California, Davis is public school supporting in-person and online programs. To date, the college offers 118 bachelor's degrees and 104 master's degrees. 

Students benefit from skilled faculty and a supportive learning community, whether in person or online. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.

The college connects degree candidates with numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Prospective applicants can meet with an financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunities. The institution discloses that 66% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid. Institutional support contributes to the college's 87% graduation rate.

5%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

92%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
39%
Students Enrolled
38,634
Institution Type
Public
#20

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

  • Lincoln, NE
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Students seeking flexible hybrid study should consider enrolling at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Presently, the college supports 149 bachelor's programs, with one option providing remote study. The school also offers 11 online master's programs.

These learning modalities enable students to learn at their own pace. Once enrolled, degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to their field. Enrollees can supplement their learning through experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects.

Degree-seekers benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Students can learn more about scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities that can be applied to their education through the financial aid office. The college notes that approximately 91% of all incoming students receive financial aid. The college admits 78% of all applicants and boasts a 66% graduation rate.

49%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

81%

Retention Rate

$24,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
25,390
Institution Type
Public

Why Attend One of the Best Vet Schools in the Country?

  • It can make you more competitive in a lucrative field where six-figure salaries are common
  • Attending vet school can prepare you for your licensure exam
  • The best vet programs can provide you with valuable mentorship and networking opportunities

Did You Know…

Jobs for veterinarians are projected to increase much faster than the national average — a whopping 20% between 2022 and 2032. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

How Important Is Accreditation for Veterinary School?

Accreditation is extremely important for veterinary schools, as it demonstrates that a school or program meets certain standards of academic quality.

If you attend a veterinary school that isn’t accredited, you may not qualify for licensure in your state. Employers may also refuse to hire you.

Top veterinary schools hold institutional accreditation. Quality doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) programs also hold programmatic accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education.

How Much Do Veterinary Schools Cost?

Becoming a vet can come with a steep price tag. According to the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, in-state tuition for four years of veterinary school can range from around $80,000 on the low end to over $220,000 at the most expensive institutions. Lodging, transportation, books and materials, and overall cost of living can add to your total.

How Much Money Can Veterinary School Graduates Make?

Veterinary school graduates can earn good money. In fact, six-figure salaries are common in this profession.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), veterinarians earned a median annual salary of $119,100 in 2023. The highest-paid 10% of vets earned $201,440 per year and the lowest-paid 10% averaged $72,360.

The highest-paying states for veterinarians in 2023 were Massachusetts, California, Hawaii, and New Jersey, per BLS data, with the average salary for vets in those states equaling about $157,800.

How to Become a Veterinarian

  1. 1

    Earn your bachelor’s degree.

    Before you apply to vet school, you need a bachelor’s degree. Pre-veterinary students typically major in biology or another science field.
  2. 2

    Gain experience working with animals.

    If you want to attend one of the best veterinary medicine schools, you have to stand out from other applicants. Top schools look for prospective students with experience working or volunteering at vet clinics, animal shelters, zoos, and wildlife organizations.
  3. 3

    Research vet schools, take the required entrance exams, and apply.

    Many vet programs require GRE test scores. Others accept scores from the MCAT, which prospective medical students take to gain entry into medical school. Make sure you have all the required materials to apply to the best vet schools and that the program you’re interested in is accredited.
  4. 4

    Earn your veterinary medicine doctorate.

    You must complete clinical experience as well as coursework during your four-year degree.
  5. 5

    Get licensed.

    In order to practice as a veterinarian, you’ll need to get licensed. This typically requires passing the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination. You may need to pass other examinations and fulfill additional requirements, depending on the state.

If you’re interested in veterinary medicine but the process to become a vet seems a little too rigorous and time-consuming for you, consider getting a certificate in veterinary medicine instead.

While you can’t become a vet with a certificate, you could potentially work as a veterinary assistant, veterinary technician or technologist, animal caretaker, animal control officer, or laboratory animal technician.

Q&A With Real Veterinary Students


Q: How did you prepare for veterinarian school?

“During my undergraduate studies, I became interested in research and pursued graduate training in molecular and cellular biology before applying to veterinary school. I also volunteered at a local animal hospital and humane society. Focus on grades — they are important — but get as much experience as you can.”

 — Joseph Varga, First-Year DVM Student, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest

Q: What surprised you the most about vet school?

“I was most surprised by the lack of competitiveness between students. My class is constantly sharing study tips, guides they’ve made, and helping each other.”

 — James Gibbons, First-Year DVM Student, University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine

“The sheer amount of information that you are required to learn with very limited time.”

 — Joseph V.

Q: What advice would you give to students considering veterinarian school?

“Visit the campuses before you apply. Try to get in touch with current students and get their opinion on the school. The cost of your veterinary education is an important factor because veterinary school is a huge financial investment.”

 — Joseph V.

“First, ensure that vet med is right for you by shadowing doctors. Second, apply to multiple schools if you can afford to. Third, enjoy your summer before starting and make some time in your schedule to relax during vet school.”

 — James G.

Frequently Asked Questions About Veterinary School

Next Steps