Veterinarian

You'll need to complete a veterinary degree approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

Entry to courses is highly competitive. For this reason the selection process is very thorough. You can expect to be interviewed and to take screening tests at most universities. 

You'll need to show:

• you are able to meet the academic requirements of the course
• you understand what the role involves
• you are highly motivated
• you have done some relevant work experience

Many universities offer a foundation year, which prepares you for the veterinary degree course.

You can find out more about studying veterinary science from UCAS.

Full-time veterinary degrees usually take 5 to 6 years.

If you already have a degree in a related subject, for example, biomedical sciences, you may be able to take a 4-year graduate entry veterinary degree course.

You can also apply to join the Army Medical Service while completing your degree at university. On selection, you would receive further training to become a veterinary officer in the army.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology and chemistry

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You'll need to get experience of working with animals, which will help when applying for courses.

You can contact:

• veterinary practices
• local animal welfare centres
• animal charities, like the PDSA or RSPCA
• local dairy and livestock farms
• riding stables

Registration

• you'll need to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons

Career tips

You can explore veterinary science through virtual work experience with Futurelearn.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join the British Veterinary Association and British Small Animals Veterinary Association for professional development and networking opportunities.

You could also join the British Equine Veterinary Association if you work with horses.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a vet from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and British Veterinary Association.