UVA Career Center

Pre-requisite course requirements vary widely by individual school. You should determine specific requirements for programs of choice using the:

• AAVMC Veterinary Medical School Admission Requirements
• AAVMC College Descriptor Pages

The summary below is a list of the most common pre-veterinary requirements.

Click here for sample multi-year plans for UVA pre-vet students with options for no bridge year and 1 bridge year. Keep in mind that everyone's plan will look slightly different based on personal circumstances and preferences. If you have specific questions about your Pre-Health plan, please make an appointment with an advisor via or visit our staff in Drop-In's, which take place on the second floor of Clemons Library, Tuesday-Thursday, from 1:30-4:30. 

Below is a list of action steps to plan for when you are applying to occupational therapy school. This is a simplified version of a multifaceted process, so we recommend meeting with a Pre-Health Advisor at least once per year to make sure you are on the right track. 

For a full guide and details on each step in applying to veterinary school, read the Pre-Health Application Guide.  

Application System

Create an account for the VMCAS (Veterinary Medical College Application Service).

Entrance Exam

Take the GRE no later than the June prior to the application cycle beginning in July.

Selecting Schools

It is essential to select schools that are not only a good fit for you academically, but also a good fit for your values, skills, interests, and that will help you become the professional you want to be. Take time to research programs prior to the application process.

Here are some factors you should consider:

• Admission requirements
• Institution's mission, goals, curriculum, grading system
• Size of cohort/class
• Location
• Clinical rotations and client population
• Your professional interests as it aligns with the school’s mission and training

It is recommended to apply to 4-6 veterinary schools.

Timeline

The application process lasts approximately 12-14 months, which spans a full academic year. You should submit your primary application as soon as possible after the application opens in early June. 

Personal Statement

Your personal statement is a distinctive aspect of your application. It begins with reflection. Consider the following questions to begin:

• Why do you want to become a veterinarian? Why is this the profession you have chosen instead of another? 
• Think back to your experiences volunteering, shadowing, researching, studying abroad. Can you provide a specific story that deeply impacted you and your decision to become a veterinarian?
• What is your understanding of the veterinary medical profession?
• What are your immediate and long-term career goals and objectives?
• What do you want the committee to know about you as a person or future colleague? What makes you a good fit for the profession?

The VMCAS personal statement section includes a 5,000 character limit (including spaces). See VMCAS for a formal prompt topic