There are more than 30 veterinary schools accredited across the U.S. Gaining admissions in the vet school is very competitive and challenging and the best way to ensure success is by starting preparation from school days.
Admission school criteria can be exclusive and vary from one school to another. Although, there are some common prerequisites that veterinary schools look for in medical school aspirants.
Read on to know what prerequisites to meet before joining a vet school.
1.Start your preparation early
The best way to gain admission in a vet school successfully is by starting an early preparation. Ideally, from your high school. Go for basic science programs to develop a strong foundational knowledge in the sciences like chemistry, biology, and physics. You will have a basic science program in medical school so prepare yourself early.
2.Choose the right undergraduate degree
When you are in college, make sure that your subjects are preparing you as a future veterinarian. Have a strong foundation in the biological sciences besides physics and chemistry.
3.Good GPA grades
Vet schools like every medical school will consider an applicant’s aptitude by looking up their grades. To become a vet school student, you should have a GPA of 3.5 or more. Your performance in the last 3 semesters will be considered closely.
4.GRE or MCAT scores
For your college application, you will have to take the graduate record examinations after your SATs or ACTs. The GRE is accepted widely across most vet colleges while some medical schools also accept MCATs. When you have shortlisted the schools of your choice, look up their website to find out the
4.Recommendation Letters
Your vet school will consider the recommendation letters closely. Try to get good quality recommendation letters from at least three professionals. One of the recommendations must be from an academician or your immediate teacher, another must be from a practicing vet who will clarify your competency in providing health care to animals and becoming a veterinarian. The third recommendation can come from an expert of your choice. Some schools may also require two recommendation letters from two vets. Look up individual school’s website to make sure you are providing the right details for the evaluation.
5.Clinical exposure with animals
Volunteer with organizations, clubs, or your local vet facilities to gather the required experience with animals and animal healthcare in a professional way. Candidates with prior experience in a clinical setting, providing animal care in a professional capacity are no doubt given a priority. Your drive and passion for selfless caring and genuine determination towards animals’ health will always be taken note of during your application process.
6.Co-curricular activities and communication skills
Aspiring vets are highly recommended to join clubs, volunteer, and perform activities that will develop their communications and people’s skills. A vet needs to have excellent communication skills to treat animals as they will need to work with the pet owners and offer them all sorts of advice related to an animal’s wellbeing.
With more experience you will get the opportunity to avail leadership roles too. As a vet student, you will need to show competence in academics as well as communication and leadership.
While some specific criteria may vary, most admission committees are looking for candidates who have demonstrated exceptional grit and determination towards health care and animal care. Pick a school that align with your future desires and strengths. Start your applications well before the due dates and collect your recommendation letters timely.
