Pre-Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Overview of the Profession

Pre-veterinary medicine refers to the academic and experiential preparation required for students planning to pursue a career as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). Veterinarians are licensed healthcare professionals who diagnose, treat, and prevent disease in animals. They work with a wide range of species, from companion animals and livestock to wildlife and exotic species. Veterinarians may also specialize in surgery, internal medicine, pathology, research, public health, or regulatory medicine.

Veterinarians practice in private clinics, hospitals, zoos, farms, research laboratories, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Students interested in veterinary medicine are expected to develop a strong foundation in the biological sciences while gaining hands-on experience through animal care, clinical observation, research, volunteering, or work in veterinary settings. Competitive applicants demonstrate academic excellence, animal-handling skills, problem-solving ability, communication skills, and a commitment to animal health and welfare. “Pre-veterinary” is not a specific major; students may choose any major as long as they complete the prerequisite coursework required by veterinary schools.

Required / Recommended Exams 

Many veterinary programs require or recommend the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which evaluates verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Students should carefully check each school’s admissions requirements, as some programs may also require situational judgment assessments, supplemental exams, or additional materials.

In addition to the GRE, some dental schools may require or recommend situational judgment exams, such as CASPer, which assess professionalism, ethical reasoning, and decision-making in healthcare-related scenarios.

Application Timeline

Students generally apply to veterinary school one year prior to intended matriculation. Applications are submitted through the VMCAS (Veterinary Medical College Application Service), the centralized application platform for most U.S. veterinary programs.

The VMCAS application typically opens early May. Veterinary schools begin reviewing applications after the application deadline, and interview invitations are generally extended from late summer through the spring semester (October - February). Students are encouraged to apply early and ensure all materials, including GRE scores (if required), letters of recommendation, transcripts, and supplemental materials, are submitted in a timely manner. Some students may choose to take gap years to gain additional experience, strengthen their academic profile, or further explore their career goals.

Important Notes

While most veterinary schools use VMCAS, specific prerequisites, recommended exams, supplemental materials, interview formats, and deadlines vary by institution. Students should carefully review the admissions requirements of each veterinary program to which they plan to apply. Confirming details directly with individual programs ensures accurate planning and supports a competitive application.