Two Ivy League colleges feature veterinary schools: the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University. According to Cornell, ranked the nation's top veterinary school by U.S. News and World Report, 2002's admitted class featured a mean GPA of 3.55 and a mean GRE score of 1330; these scores make up 60 percent of the admissions formula. The University of Pennsylvania (ranked No. 4) reports that in 2009 the average grade point average stood at 3.61 while the average combined GRE score was 1288.
Outside the Ivy League, 26 colleges offer veterinary programs in every region of the 48 contiguous U.S. states. According to Penn State University, the average applicant to its veterinary school has a 3.5 GPA. The University of California-Davis has an exceptionally high acceptance GPA and GRE of 3.8 and 1500, respectively. But most other veterinary schools fit the mold of a mean upper-3.5 GPA and 1350 GRE score.
Veterinary school admission is not, however, all about test scores and grade point averages. Most veterinary programs also require an exceptional personal statement and satisfactory performance during an interview. The successful candidate must combine academics with character to prove competitive in the admissions process.
The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges accredits Doctor of Veterinary Medicine for students hoping to attain licensure in the United States. The AAVMC accredits 28 domestic and 14 international schools as of February 2011. Students should make sure that the school they are attending either has full accreditation or an arrangement with an accredited school to complete their clinical educations and attain licensure.