To become a veterinarian, you generally follow these key steps:
- Complete a Bachelor's Degree
Most veterinary schools require applicants to have completed a bachelor's degree, often with specific prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and related sciences. Majors like biology, animal science, biochemistry, or zoology are common choices to prepare for vet school
- Gain Experience Working with Animals
Veterinary schools highly value hands-on experience. This can include internships, job shadowing, or volunteering under the supervision of a veterinarian. Diverse experiences help confirm your passion for the field and strengthen your application
- Apply to Veterinary School
Use the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) to apply to multiple accredited veterinary programs. Prepare a strong application including your academic records, experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. Veterinary programs are competitive, so good grades and relevant experience are crucial
- Earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree
Veterinary school typically lasts four years. The first two years focus on classroom and lab coursework in basic and advanced sciences. The last two years emphasize clinical rotations, where you gain practical experience treating animals under supervision
- Obtain Licensure
After graduating with a DVM, you must pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (or equivalent in other countries) to practice as a licensed veterinarian
Additional tips include joining pre-vet clubs during undergraduate studies, taking courses in communication and business to develop soft skills, and considering graduate-entry programs if you already hold a related degree
. In summary, becoming a veterinarian involves a strong foundation in science through undergraduate education, extensive animal-related experience, successful completion of veterinary school, and licensure to practice professionally
