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Application Guide 2024:
Veterinary Medicine
The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Vet in the UK in 2024
Dr. Rebecca Massie
Veterinary Admissions Expert
Introduction
Are you passionate about animals and aspire to become a veterinarian? Pursuing a career in veterinary medicine is both fulfilling and rewarding, and this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the path to achieving your dream career in 2024. So you want to become an animal doctor? But you're unsure about the entry requirements, what you need to do, work experience or the timeline for application. You will find everything answered below.
We will cover everything from prerequisites for veterinary school to personal statements, interviews, and application tips. Let's dive into the exciting world of veterinary studies!
To become an animal doctor in the UK, you will need to have good academic grades and veterinary work experience as a baseline. As it is a very competitive course, you must also be able to convince the admissions team at the vet school of your motivation and suitability for the course - your personal statement, SAQs (supplementary assessment questionnaires) and veterinary interviews all contribute to this.
In this article, you will find out everything that you need to know about applying to study veterinary medicine in the UK. You will learn about the different factors that make up an application as well as all of the tips and tricks to help boost your application.
Article Contents
Deciding on Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Medicine Entry Requirements
Choosing the Right Veterinary Course
Veterinary Application Process
Vet Schools in the UK
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Deciding On Veterinary Medicine - Why become a vet?
Why I Want To Be A Veterinarian
Identifying your motivation for applying to study Veterinary Medicine is crucial to your success. Everyone has a different story, but we have described here some common reasons why people choose to be a veterinarian. Use these examples to help you master your answer to this question, this will be needed in your personal statement, SAQ and vet school interview.
Why I Want To Be A Veterinarian - Helping Animals
By definition, your job as a veterinarian will involve preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases in animals. Your role is to reduce animal suffering, which makes this a highly rewarding career. You will be able to treat a WIDE range of animals - anything from rats, dogs, and snakes to horses, parrots and even elephants! This is something that very few other careers allow you to enjoy and experience.
Why I Want To Be A Veterinarian - It's Never Boring!
Far from a standard office job, no two days will be the same as a vet - you'll treat everything from routine illnesses to emergencies and be performing surgeries too. It's fast-paced and full of excitement! While sometimes it can be stressful (make sure you know some of the negatives for your vet school interview), you are constantly thinking on your feet, working within a multidisciplinary veterinary team with nurses and therapists and taking on lots of responsibility.
Why I Want To Be A Veterinarian - Problem Solving
Every diagnostic challenge is like solving a puzzle - if problem-solving is something that interests you, then becoming a veterinarian will suit you well. Unlike patients, you will have to try to decipher what is going on through communication with the owners and a thorough diagnostic examination of the animal - this can be very difficult.
Why I Want To Be A Veterinarian - Community
As a vet, you'll have a lot of interaction with members of the public - for those of us who enjoy the company of others and have good communication skills, this is ideal. You will need to have a warm, talkative and friendly personality to get on with all your coworkers and clients in the veterinary field.
Should I Become a Vet?
Wondering if Veterinary Medicine is the right subject for you? We're here to help. Feel free to drop us a message to find out more about how we can help your decision-making process. We can advise on everything from vet school work experience, the veterinary personal statement, SAQ, vet school clearing courses and veterinary interviews.
Should I Become a Vet - Academics
Veterinary Medicine is an academically challenging course, so the grade requirements are high to get into vet school. If you have an interest in science subjects and receive good grades in them at school, then this bodes well for your application! That said, some vets are not such 'natural' scientists but study hard to achieve their goals - if you're finding your studies difficult but really want to become a vet, don't let yourself be put off and keep trying your best.
Should I Become a Vet - Personality
Becoming a vet requires a certain personality type, that's for sure! Remember that you'll be working with people in this job just as much as animals, so good communication skills are essential. You'll also need to be resilient as it is both a challenging course and career, with many highs and lows. To be a good vet, you'll have to be readily adaptable to new circumstances and really practice thinking on your feet!
Should I Become A Vet - Animals
It goes without saying that a love of animals is essential in this career - of course, a job as a vet in clinical practice guarantees you a lifetime of seeing a huge variety of animals daily!
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GCSEs & A-Levels To Get Into Vet School In The UK
Before embarking on your journey to become a vet, it's essential to understand the prerequisites for veterinary school in the UK. Meeting these requirements will put you on the right track to securing a place in a reputable course.
Veterinary Medicine is an academically challenging course, and so the grade requirements at GCSE and A Levels tend to be relatively high. That said, there are variations between individual universities - we have written blog posts to help you to cross-compare and summarise this.
A. Required GCSEs and A-levels
What GCSEs Do I Need to Study to Get Into Vet School
At GCSE, you have a lot of flexibility - as long as you're studying at least Dual Science and get good grades in English Language and Mathematics then you will be on the right track.
To study veterinary medicine in the UK, you'll need to have strong GCSE and A-level qualifications. A typical vet school requires at least five GCSEs at grade A (7) or above, including English, Mathematics, and Science.
What A-Levels Do I Need to Study to Get Into Vet School?
Vet schools in the UK accept a number of qualifications - A Levels most commonly, but alternatives include the International Baccalaureate. We recommend checking vet school websites for individual grade/qualification websites.
We recommend studying Biology and Chemistry to A Level standard to get into vet school. It is a common misconception that Physics/Mathematics is an absolute requirement - we advise taking these subjects to A Level if they interest you, but otherwise, feel free to broaden your horizons with another academic subject.
For A-levels, you will need at least three A grades, typically in Biology and Chemistry, with the third subject being Physics, Mathematics, or another relevant subject.
B. Do you need the UCAT or other entrance exams for veterinary medicine in the UK?
You do not need the UKCAT (or UCAT) to apply for veterinary school.
The only entrance exam needed for vet school in the UK is if you are applying to Cambridge Vet School - where you must complete the Natural Sciences Aptitude Test.
C. Highers for Veterinary Science (Scotland)
For students in Scotland, the typical entry requirements for veterinary school include at least five Highers at grade A, including Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Mathematics.
Additionally, some Scottish universities may also require the Scottish Baccalaureate or Advanced Highers in relevant subjects.
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Choosing the right Veterinary Course in the UK
Selecting the most suitable veterinary course for your goals and interests is crucial. With different types of courses available, understanding the distinctions can help you make the best choice. Here's a breakdown of various veterinary degrees and options.
A. Veterinary Science vs. Veterinary Medicine
Both veterinary science and veterinary medicine degrees lead to becoming a vet in the UK. In the UK, these terms are often used interchangeably.
However, some universities may use "veterinary science" to focus more on the scientific aspects of the field, while "veterinary medicine" may emphasise clinical practice.
Always research the course content and structure of each university to ensure it aligns with your interests.
B. Vet Med vs. Veterinary Nursing
While both careers involve working with animals, vet med and veterinary nursing have different responsibilities and educational requirements.
Veterinary medicine courses prepare students to become fully qualified veterinarians, whereas veterinary nursing courses train students to become registered veterinary nurses (RVNs).
RVNs support veterinarians in various aspects of animal care but do not have the same authority to diagnose, prescribe medication, or perform surgery - though this is changing!
C. Accelerated and Graduate Entry Veterinary Courses
For students who already have a relevant science degree or wish to switch careers, accelerated and graduate entry veterinary medicine programs may be an ideal choice.
These courses are typically shorter than the standard five-year programs and can range from 4 to 5 years. They provide a fast-track route to becoming a vet by building on your existing knowledge and skills.
D. Postgraduate Veterinary Medicine Options
If you've completed your veterinary medicine degree and wish to specialize further, several postgraduate options are available.
You can pursue a Master's degree, PhD, or clinical residency in areas like surgery, internal medicine, oncology, or diagnostic imaging. Postgraduate veterinary medicine programmes enable you to advance your career by gaining in-depth knowledge and expertise in a specific field.
By carefully considering your interests, career goals, and educational background, you can choose the most suitable veterinary course that will lead you to a fulfilling career in the world of animal care and health.
A degree in veterinary medicine opens up various career paths, including working in private practice, research, academia, government, or the pharmaceutical industry. As a veterinarian, you can specialize in areas such as small animal, large animal, exotic, or equine medicine, or focus on public health and epidemiology.
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The Veterinary School Application Process
Applying to veterinary school in the UK can be a complex and competitive process. With a limited number of spots available, it's essential to stand out among the crowd of applicants.
Here's an overview of the application process and some tips to help you succeed.
A. The UCAS Application
In the UK, students apply to veterinary courses through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). The UCAS application requires you to submit your details, academic qualifications, and a personal statement.
You may apply to up to four veterinary courses, with a fifth choice available for an alternative subject.
B. Personal Statement for Vet School Application
Your personal statement is a crucial part of your vet school application. It's your opportunity to showcase your passion for veterinary medicine, highlight your relevant experiences, and explain why you're an ideal candidate for the course.
A successful application to vet school involves crafting a strong personal statement and excelling in interviews. Here's how to make your application stand out.
Your personal statement is a vital component of your vet school application, showcasing your passion for veterinary medicine and your unique qualities. Be sure to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that demonstrate your commitment to the profession. Explain why you are a suitable candidate and how the program aligns with your career goals.
Veterinary Nurse Personal Statements
Just like vet med personal statements, veterinary nurse personal statements should emphasise your passion for animal care and your dedication to the role. Discuss your experiences working with animals, relevant qualifications, and transferable skills that make you an ideal candidate for a veterinary nursing program.
Focus on your motivation for becoming a vet, your understanding of the profession, and any work experience or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Your Personal Statement will be submitted as part of your UCAS application on the 15th of October. SAQs (Supplementary Assessment Questionnaires) are sent out by vet schools following the submission of your UCAS form. A strong performance in both is essential to progress to the next stage of your application: the vet interview!
👉🏼 Get your vet personal statement edited by our team
C. SAQ for Veterinary Medicine Courses in the UK
The Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ) is a component of the application process for some veterinary medicine courses in the UK. The SAQ is designed to provide additional information about your background, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities, which can help admissions teams assess your suitability for the program.
When completing the SAQ, it's essential, to be honest, and concise while highlighting your skills, interests, and experiences relevant to veterinary medicine. Focus on aspects that differentiate you from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
👉🏼 Vet School SAQ Guide & SAQ Editing & Reviews 2024
D. Interviews for Veterinary Medicine Courses in the UK
Interviews are a crucial aspect of the veterinary medicine application process in the UK, as they allow admissions teams to gain a deeper understanding of your motivation, communication skills, and ability to handle challenging situations.
The vet school interview is the final hurdle between you and getting into vet school - every university interviews currently, aside from Bristol vet school which uses the Bristol SAQ. Preparation is key here, so see our website for veterinary interview tips and vet school interview tutoring services.
Veterinary medicine interviews may be conducted in person or online, and they can take various formats, such as panel interviews, Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs), or group activities.
To prepare for your interview, research the specific veterinary program and institution, and be prepared to discuss why you have chosen to study veterinary medicine and why you are a good fit for the course. Familiarise yourself with current issues in the field, and be ready to discuss your relevant experiences, such as work placements, volunteering, or extracurricular activities.
Practice answering common interview questions and consider participating in mock interviews to build confidence and improve your communication skills. During the interview, maintain a professional demeanour, listen carefully to the questions, and provide thoughtful, well-articulated responses. Remember that the interview is not only an opportunity for the admissions team to assess your suitability for the programme but also for you to learn more about the course and the institution.
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👉🏼 170 Vet School Practice Interview Questions 2024
E. Veterinary School Application Timeline
The application timeline for veterinary courses typically follows this structure:
May to September – Research and attend open days at various universities, complete your vet personal statement and veterinary personal statement
October 15th – UCAS application deadline for veterinary courses
November to February – University interviews
August – A-level results and confirmation of your place
Keep in mind that this timeline may vary for graduate entry courses or accelerated vet school programmes.
F. Tips for Getting into Vet School
With the competitive nature of veterinary courses, it's important to maximise your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you get into your dream veterinary school:
Gain relevant work experience – Volunteering or working in veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or farms can demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide you with practical experience.
Prepare for entry exams – especially if applying to Cambridge Vet School
Attend open days – Visiting universities and talking to current students and faculty can help you make an informed decision about the right course for you.
By following these steps and optimising your application, you'll increase your chances of securing a place in a prestigious veterinary course in the UK. Good luck on your journey to becoming a vet!
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Where Can I Study Veterinary Medicine in the UK?
There are 10 different vet schools to choose from in the UK:
Different vet schools in the UK have varying entry requirements. Thoroughly research each school's prerequisites, including A-level subjects, grades, and work experience expectations. Additionally, take note of any entrance exams or interviews required as part of the application process.
What If You Don't Get Into Vet School?
If you don't get into vet school, consider alternative pathways, such as reapplying the following year, pursuing a related degree, or exploring different careers within the animal care sector. You can also seek feedback from the admissions team to improve your future applications.
Some courses are offered through clearing for vet school.
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Veterinary Work Experience
Veterinary work experience is required by the majority of vet schools - again, different universities have different requirements, but as a general rule of thumb we would recommend having at least two weeks in a vet clinic and four weeks of animal husbandry experience (farms/kennels/catteries/stables/etc).
👉🏼 Check out our extensive vet work experience guide here for 2024
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When is the Veterinary Application Deadline in 2024?
It's very important that you don't miss the veterinary application deadline if you're applying to vet school this year! This year it is October 15th 2024 for 2025 entry to Veterinary Medicine - this needs to be submitted via UCAS.
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UCAS Application to Become a Veterinarian in the UK
You will apply to vet schools via UCAS - this will include your GCSE and A-Level grades and a veterinary Personal Statement (see our website for advice on how to go about writing this).
We are admissions specialists in Veterinary Medicine in the UK - we can give you the best advice regarding how to become an animal doctor! We can help with personal statements, Vet SAQs, vet school interview tutoring and more. See our website to find out how we can help you to make a successful application to vet school.
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Becoming a Vet Later in Life in the UK
Many people decide that they want to be a vet at a very young age, but this is not always the case! Others will not be successful at their first attempt at getting into vet school and others will decide to pursue Veterinary Medicine having had experience in another career first. Whatever your history, don't be put off applying later in life if becoming a vet is your dream!
Postgraduate Veterinary Medicine Degrees
Every UK vet school has a postgraduate veterinary medicine degree available, and some of these are 'accelerated' courses meaning that the degree is four years rather than five. This is a result of the first two years of study being combined into one year.
Postgraduate Veterinary Entry Requirements
Postgraduate entry requirements vary between vet schools, so we recommend checking their individual websites for advice on this. In general, a science Bachelor's degree of 2:1 or higher is a good place to start.
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Common Questions About Vet School Applications
Aspiring Vets
Many aspiring vets get in touch with us via our website and online community (Instagram and Facebook) - if you're looking for help with your application, have a look through our website and please get in touch if you would like any advice regarding getting into vet school! We help many people achieve their dream of getting into the next stage of their career and becoming an aspiring vet.
Should I Become A Vet or a Vet Nurse?
Vets and Vet Nurses perform different jobs, but one cannot function without the other! Vets have the job of diagnosing and treating sick animals, whereas Vet Nurses are involved in the supportive care of animals and also have many technical skills. When making this decision, you should consider your strengths and weaknesses - Veterinary Medicine requires higher grades, whereas Veterinary Nursing is a great option for those with strong practical skills.
Should I become a vet or a doctor?
There are a few notable differences between life as a vet and life as a doctor, which should help you to make this decision. Vets not only treat a range of species but also will perform the jobs of medics, surgeons, dentists and more in a 'first opinion' job. Doctors are obligated to specialise after graduation, whereas for vets this is a choice. You also must remember the absence of an animal NHS - the financial element of pet care is an ever-present consideration for vets, but less so for doctors in the UK.
What is a DVM Degree?
DVM stands for Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. This term is more commonly used in the United States than in the UK.
How to Become a Big Animal Vet?
Some students know before even applying to vet school that they want to work with big animals - for some, this may mean working with farm animals, and for others, it may mean working with horses. The term 'large animal vet' most commonly refers to farm vets, who will treat cows, sheep, pigs, llamas, alpacas and goats on a regular basis in the UK (to name the most common species). At vet school, you will study all of these species so when you graduate you will not have to do any additional qualifications to become a farm vet. To become an equine (horse) vet, you also won't require any qualifications additional to your Veterinary Medicine degree - horses are studied to a good level of detail at every vet school so you will be well equipped for a career as an equine vet.
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What is the difference between veterinary medicine and veterinary science?
Veterinary Medicine usually refers to the professional field and the practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases in animals. Students studying Veterinary Medicine are being trained to become Veterinary Surgeons. Courses in Veterinary Medicine are typically very practical and hands-on, with a strong focus on clinical practice.
The aim of these programs is to provide students with the necessary qualifications to practice as veterinarians, which in the UK includes being registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Veterinary Medicine courses are longer (usually five years), and they are quite demanding, covering a range of subjects from animal anatomy and physiology to pharmacology and surgery.
Veterinary Science, on the other hand, while it also encompasses the study of animal health, can be more research-oriented and focused on the biological aspects of animal health and disease. It might delve deeper into areas such as animal biology, genetics, microbiology, and epidemiology. Veterinary
Science degrees might prepare students for a variety of roles within the veterinary field, including research, diagnostics, and public health, not just clinical practice. Some Veterinary Science courses may also lead to becoming a vet, but they can also provide a pathway into research and other science careers related to animal health and welfare.
Veterinary Medicine:
Leads to qualification as a veterinary surgeon.
Focus on diagnosing and treating animal diseases, surgery, and preventive care.
Includes extensive clinical training with animals.
Requires registration with the RCVS to practice in the UK.
Veterinary Science:
May lead to a range of careers, including veterinary research, public health, and academia.
Emphasizes the underlying science of animal health, disease, and welfare.
May not always qualify one to practice as a vet without further qualifications or training.
Can be a stepping stone to postgraduate study or specialization within the veterinary field.
Students considering applying to a university in the UK to study either Veterinary Medicine or Veterinary Science should carefully research the specific curriculum and outcomes of the courses they're interested in. They should also consider their own career goals: whether they aim to work directly with animal care in a clinical setting, or if they're more interested in the scientific and research aspects of animal health.
Both fields are quite competitive and have stringent entry requirements, including a strong background in sciences at the secondary education level. Practical experience with animals can also be a crucial part of the application process, so students are often encouraged to gain experience in veterinary practices, farms, or animal shelters.
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In 2024, the Veterinary Ultimate Package boasted a 100% success rate, demonstrating its effectiveness in helping students secure a place in their desired veterinary programme.
By leveraging the expertise of experienced veterinary mentors who understand the intricacies of the application process, students can significantly increase their chances of success and embark on their journey to becoming a vet with confidence.
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