What should I major in to apply to vet school?

Vet schools do not typically require you to have a specific major when applying, but they do often require prerequisites, such as biology, chemistry, math, and physics. Biology, animal science, biochemistry, and other science majors are good choices if you want to apply to vet school, as these majors include coursework in all the areas required by most vet schools.

Is getting into veterinary school hard?

Yes, getting into veterinary school is challenging. Acceptance rates can vary but often fall below 20%, and sometimes even below 10%. Prospective students typically need a relatively high GPA, along with glowing letters of recommendation and the appropriate prerequisite experience.

What GPA do you need for vet school?

Many programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0, though admitted students often have higher GPAs. The American Association of Veterinary Medicine Colleges reports that the average GPA of students admitted in fall 2022 was 3.6, with a 3.5 GPA in the sciences.

How long does it take to complete veterinary school?

Most full-time students complete their DVM program within four years. If you attend veterinary school part-time, you can expect your degree to take longer - around 4-6 years.

What is the difference between a DVM and a veterinariae medicinae doctoris (VMD)?

A doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) and veterinariae medicinae doctoris (VMD) are the same degrees, with the former being far more common than the latter. Both degrees qualify you for veterinary practice and prepare you to get licensed as a veterinarian in your state. Currently, only the University of Pennsylvania offers a VMD instead of the typical DVM.

How does a veterinary program compare to a zoology program?

Veterinary programs focus on diagnosing animals and treating their medical conditions. Zoology programs focus on animal biology, evolution, and behavior. Veterinary programs are a professional track that leads to a career as a vet, while zoology programs prepare students for jobs in research, teaching, and conservation. If you're interested in becoming a vet, attending an accredited program from one of the best veterinary medicine schools is the perfect first step to a vet career. While these programs can be costly, they can also lead to a high salary as a veterinarian in the long run.

Best Veterinary Schools In The U.S.

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.

Best Veterinary Schools and Programs in the United States

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 10% between 2024 and 2034. (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 $125,510 in 2024. The highest-paid 10% of vets earned $212,890 per year and the lowest-paid 10% averaged $70,350.

The highest-paying states for veterinarians in 2024 were Arizona, California, District of Columbia, and Massachusetts, per BLS data, with the average salary for vets in those states equaling about $171,260.

How to Become a Veterinarian

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."