Are you interested in veterinary medicine? If your goal is to cure animal diseases, look at our list of the top vet schools in the US. We have summarized the relevant information for you. You can find the appropriate universities and admission criteria in this article.
Top Vet Schools in the US
Many US vet schools can meet your future employment requirements. Excellent courses and extensive clinical practice experience will allow you to focus on this field. At the same time, however, the top vet schools in America are often highly competitive. We will summarize the top vet schools and provide admission requirements and other detailed information to help you choose the right university for your study.
| Ranking of US Vet Schools As Per US News | ||
|---|---|---|
| University | QS Ranking | Ranking of US Vet Schools |
| University of California, Davis | 102 | 1 |
| Cornell University | 20 | 2 |
| Colorado State University | 801 | 3 |
| Ohio State University | 120 | 3 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 13 | 5 |
| North Carolina State University | 295 | 5 |
| University of Florida | 173 | 7 |
| University of Wisconsin–Madison | 65 | 7 |
| University of Georgia | 501 | 7 |
| Texas A&M University | 164 | 10 |
| Iowa State University | 501 | 11 |
| Auburn University | 801 | 11 |
University of California, Davis
- Location: 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616
- Tuition Fees: $44,000–$45,000/year
- QS Ranking: 102
- Acceptanc Rate: 16.3%
Admission Requirements:
- Grade point average of 2.5 or higher (4-point scale)
- 180 hours of veterinary experience (private practice, farm, animal shelter, zoo, aquarium, etc.)
- Three professional referrals, including at least one from a veterinarian
- Completion of prerequisites: A grade of C or higher is required. A C- will not be accepted
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree from a regionally recognized university
- Complete multiple mini-interviews
- Applicants who are not native English speakers must take the ib-TOEFL test unless they have received a bachelor’s degree from an English-speaking university in the United States.
The University of California, Davis Veterinary Medicine program ranks first among the top ranked vet schools in US and among the top vet schools worldwide. It combines academic research and clinical training and is a dream school for many veterinary students. With more than 28 specialist services, you can gain practical experience in wildlife health, aquatic medicine and livestock management. During the first two years of your study, you will pair up with Year 4 students and work in a medical teaching hospital, applying practical skills and knowledge.
Cornell University
- Location: Ithaca, NY 14850
- Tuition Fees: $42,948–$64,042/year
- QS Ranking: 20
- Acceptanc Rate: 12%
Admission Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with at least a C- in required courses and a B for early applicants.
- With a lot of experience working with animals. (There is no minimum number of hours of veterinary experience required, but a summary of knowledge and perception of the profession is needed)
- Three evaluation letters, at least one of which must be written by a veterinarian who knows you and the other by an academic faculty member who is supervising you.
- Prepare a significant personal statement.
Cornell University‘s veterinary program, ranked third among the top vet schools in America. It offers students a four-year DVM program and more than 1,200 hours of clinical training. You can gain hands-on experience at Cornell University Animal Hospital, specialising in shelter medicine, wildlife health, and animal medicine. Also, if you want more hands-on experience, you can take advantage of the Tetlow and Roy Park Veterinary Innovation LABS. This veterinary simulation centre allows students to practice like a lifelike “patient” realistically.
Colorado State University
- Location: Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- Tuition Fees: $41,098–$61,284/year
- QS Ranking: 801
- Acceptanc Rate: 15%
Admission Requirements:
- A grade of C- or above
Obtain admission permission from an institution recognized by the Higher - Education Commission before admission (July 15)
- Three letters of recommendation, one of which is strongly recommended to be written by a veterinarian
Colorado State University‘s veterinary program is ranked second among the vet schools in America. Students in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program learn in a practice-based setting. From the first year of school, you will be able to participate in practical training, and by the third year, you will be able to undertake clinical practice. Hands-on experience will be provided at the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, which handles more than 42,000 cases annually. The speciality has a 95% pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). This level of education dramatically improves the employment rate of students.
Ohio State University
- Location: 281 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
- Tuition Fees: $36,650/year
- QS Ranking: 120
- Acceptanc Rate: 14.6%
Admission Requirements:
- A 3.5 science GPA; overall strong academic performance
- Complete all required courses with a grade of C or higher
- Submit official transcripts from all educational institutions
- Have paid or volunteer work experience with veterinarians
- Participate in community service and leadership activities
- Three letters of recommendation, one of which needs to be written by a veterinarian
- Personal interview
Ranked third among the best vet schools in the US, Ohio State University is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and impactful research. The Veterinary Center is one of the largest and busiest teaching hospitals in the United States, treating more than 35,000 cases each year and providing students with an unparalleled clinical experience. As the only veterinary school in Ohio, the Ohio College of Veterinary Medicine’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program also stands out nationally.
University of Pennsylvania
- Location: Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Tuition Fees: $61,674/year
- QS Ranking: 13
- Acceptanc Rate: 7.2%
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate grade point average is 3.8
- Has several in-depth research experience
- Three letters of recommendation (written by professors or leaders with relevant research experience)
- Interview
The School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania is ranked fifth among the top vet schools in the USA. A world-class veterinary Doctor program and excellent clinical training will prepare you to become a professional veterinarian. As one of the top vet schools in US, it will provide you with practice opportunities at the New Bolton Center for Large Animals and Ryan Veterinary Companion Animal Hospital. You can gain practical knowledge of veterinary medicine in this practical environment. In addition, you can also choose to enrol in a dual degree program in veterinary medicine, such as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine/Master of Business Administration or a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine/Master of Public Health.
North Carolina State University
- Location: Raleigh, NC 27695
- Tuition Fees: $24,985/year
- QS Ranking: 295
- Acceptanc Rate: 16.7%
Admission Requirements:
- Meet minimum GPA requirements (North Carolina residents: Cumulative 3.0
Non-residents: Cumulative 3.4) - A grade of C- or higher in required courses (Animal nutrition is required)
- At least 200 hours of clinical, medical, agribusiness, health sciences or medical-related research experience
- Additional animal experiences
- Describe personal status
- Three letters of recommendation (two of which were written by a veterinarian or PhD scientist with whom the applicant has worked in a veterinary setting)
- Residence application interview
- Transcript verification
The College of Veterinary Medicine at North Carolina State University is ranked fifth among the top vet schools in US and focuses on clinical research. As one of the top vet schools in USA, North Carolina State University excels in companion animal medicine, food supply medicine, and biomedical research, preparing students for successful careers in veterinary medicine. It is important to note that the fourth year is mainly the clinical practice phase, and you must complete 168 credits to graduate.
University of Florida
- Location: Gainesville, FL 32611
- Tuition Fees: $28,790/year
- QS Ranking: 173
- Acceptanc Rate: 13.7%
Admission Requirements:
- The overall GPA is more significant than 3.0
- Complete the required undergraduate courses with a grade of C or above
- Animal and veterinary experience required (no minimum hours required)
- Three letters of recommendation (one by a veterinarian)
- Interview with a group of two or three people
The University of Florida‘s College of Veterinary Medicine is ranked seventh among the top vet schools in USA, and its veterinary programs are well known. With a 95% NAVLE pass rate, UF is considered one of the top veterinary schools in the US. Its specialities include minor animal surgery, emergency care, and wildlife medicine, making it a top choice for veterinary schools in the United States. In the third and fourth years of your studies, you can choose to participate in clinical placements or advanced electives. Although external internships are optional, we strongly recommend seeking them out, as you must complete 150 credits to graduate.
University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Location: 500 Lincoln Dr, Madison, WI 53706
- Tuition Fees: $34,694 - $56,482/year
- QS Ranking: 65
- Acceptanc Rate: 10.5%
Admission Requirements:
- Completion of required undergraduate courses with a grade of C or above (including C)
- Animal and veterinary medical experience is recommended
- Three letters of recommendation (a veterinarian must write one)
- Written statement
- Official transcript
The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine is ranked seventh among the top vet schools in the USA, and its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program is highly competitive. Students can earn 164 credits during the study, including 117 pre-clinical and 47 clinical credits. In the program’s fourth year, students must complete a series of compulsory core rotations. These rotations include large animal medicine, outpatient, radiology, anesthesiology, and more. As one of the top veterinary schools in the US, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a comprehensive curriculum with a high emphasis on research and more than $15 million in annual research funding. You can get very high-quality educational practice here.
University of Georgia
- Location: University of Georgia Chapel, Herty Dr, Athens, GA 30602
- Tuition Fees: $17,514/year
- QS Ranking: 501–510
- Acceptanc Rate: 9.2%
Admission Requirements:
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Complete the required prerequisites with a grade of C or higher
- Official transcript
- Three letters of recommendation (at least one must be from a veterinarian)
- At least 250 hours of veterinary experience (must be completed under the direct supervision of a veterinarian)
The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the top veterinary schools in the US. It offers students the highly regarded Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. In the third year, students begin to take more courses and become eligible for selected clinical rotations. The program will last 14 months. During this time, students focus their interests on specific areas, including diagnostic pathology, extensive animal surgery, large animal farm practices, exotic animals, wildlife, and zoo clinical medicine. As one of the top vet schools in the US, the University of Georgia has achieved a 95% pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), demonstrating its commitment to providing one of the top veterinary education programs.
Texas A&M University
- Location: 400 Bizzell St, College Station, TX 77840
- Tuition Fees: $26.320/year
- QS Ranking: 164
- Acceptanc Rate: 18.8%
Admission Requirements:
- GPA requirements: 3.10 for the last 45 hours; 2.9 science GPA
- More than 100 hours of veterinary experience
- Complete 53 hours of required coursework with a grade of C or higher
Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is ranked 10th among the top-ranked vet schools in the US. It is recognized as one of the leading veterinary schools in Texas. The university teaches students core medical knowledge, such as comprehensive animal care, pathology, veterinary immunology, pharmacology, principles of surgery, and other elective courses. In the third year, students will choose a career focus between several disciplines: companion animals, rural/mixed animals, equids, food animals and production. As the best veterinary school in the United States and one of the top vet schools in America, Texas A&M University’s North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) pass rate is 93%, solidifying its leadership in veterinary education and research.
Iowa State University
- Location: Ames, IA 50011
- Tuition Fees: $29,261 - 60,987/year
- QS Ranking: 501–510
- Acceptanc Rate: 12.3%
Admission Requirements:
- Three assessment letters (students are strongly advised to write four letters)
- Complete the CASPer test
- Must have a bachelor’s degree in biological or physical sciences
- Highly recommended undergraduate courses to complete: Anatomy, physiology, cell and molecular biology, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, and calculus
- Personal statement and resume
The Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine is recognized as one of the top vet schools. Students must choose one of four focuses in the fourth year of study. These focus on small animals, horses, mixed animals and food animals. Depending on the selected focus will determine the required electives and clinical rotations. Iowa State University has graduated more than 7,500 veterinarians and continues to be one of the vet schools in America with its cutting-edge research and commitment to veterinary excellence. It is important to note that you need to complete 160 credits to graduate.
Auburn University
- Location: Auburn, AL 36849
- Tuition Fees: $29,608 - 50,992/year
- QS Ranking: 801–1000
- Acceptanc Rate: 9%
Admission Requirements:
- Complete required courses with a grade of C or above
- GPA required: Alabama and Kentucky residents: 2.50 or higher; National applicant: 3.0 or higher
- Experience in working with veterinarians (no time required)
- Three letters of recommendation (from a veterinarian, employer, professor, or consultant)
- Report card
- Admissions committee interview
Auburn University is consistently ranked 11th among the best vet schools in the US. Its outstanding Auburn veterinary program and extensive clinical experience make it one of the top vet schools in the USA. During the program’s first three years, students will take integrated courses to introduce them to the basic principles of veterinary medicine. Courses include basic microscopic anatomy, introduction to surgery, cardiovascular systems, veterinary toxicology, and more. In the fourth year, students will participate in a clinical rotation.
What to Consider When Choosing the Right Vet School
When you are determined to become a professional veterinarian, how to choose the most suitable veterinary school will be the most critical question. If you have too many choices to choose from, we’ve compiled some factors to help you quickly find the right school for you:
Available Programs & Requirements
Before you choose a school, make sure you enjoy the majors and courses offered. Therefore, you need to find the introduction of the courses on the school’s official website to have a deeper understanding.
You should also look for websites that describe the application requirements, the acceptance rate, and related content. You can compare the requirements with your situation to find the best school to apply to. You can also set new goals for your efforts to better align your abilities with the requirements of your target college.
Location
Studying abroad is exciting, but you must also ensure you can live comfortably and safely in a new country or city. While choosing the right college, you also need to get to know the college’s location.
You need to know the cost of living in the city, rent prices, weather conditions, crime rates and so on. Getting an in-depth understanding of the city will ensure you have no regrets after admission.
School Culture
You also need to understand the cultural environment of your target institution. Then you can get an insight into the vision and values of each school, etc., and, of course, life. You can talk to past students online to get the most accurate picture.
Conclusion
Choosing the right veterinary school is essential to becoming a professional veterinarian. Top vet schools in the US can make your dreams come true. Not only do we introduce you to the top vet schools in the USA, but we are also ready to provide you with quality student housing around the campus. With excellent location and facilities, these student apartments offer a comfortable living environment. We are pleased to provide you with the most comfortable home while you pursue your dreams!
FAQ
What is the #1 vet school in the US?
University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine is the top vet schools in the US. UC Davis’ veterinary medicine program is ranked first in QS.
What is the hardest vet school to get into us?
The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Veterinary Medicine is widely considered the most difficult vet US vet schools.
Is a 3.5 GPA good for vet school?
A 3.5 GPA is considered a good GPA for vet school. This grade is usually in line with the average GPA of admitted students. However, it’s worth noting that factors like GRE scores and strong letters of recommendation also play the most important role in the admissions process.
