How to become a vet
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
University
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 that:
- you are able to meet the academic requirements of the course
- you understand what the role involves
- that you are highly motivated
- that you have gained some relevant work experience
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, 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
Volunteering
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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.