Because the education required to become a veterinarian is so intensive and takes so many years, before you apply to a veterinarian school, you need to be positive it is what you want to do for the rest of your life. If you are not prepared to be around suffering animals and possibly euthanize them, work long and unpredictable hours or operate a private practice as a small business or if you have poor grades and little interest in biology and chemistry, you should consider alternative careers that will still allow you to express your love for animals.
Choosing the right veterinary school is crucial. There are 28 graduate veterinary programs throughout the U.S., each accepting from 80 to 120 students annually. In addition to competitive entry requirements, schools typically charge $12,000 to $20,000 each year for tuition for in-state students, and $30,000 to $40,000 annually for non-resident tuition.
All schools have slightly different applications, but there are common requirements. All American veterinarian schools require scores from the standardized GRE, MCAT or VCAT tests, as well as the completion of certain undergraduate classes. Applicants typically must compose a personal essay which describes your reasons for pursuing veterinary medicine as well. You can strengthen your application by volunteering or working with a practicing veterinarian, wildlife rehabilitation center, animal shelter, farm or zoo to gain practical experience with animals.
During your first two years of veterinary school you will complete core coursework in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, bacteriology, parasitology and pharmacology. During the second two years, students typically learn practical aspects of animal healthcare under trained supervision in animal hospitals. You will learn to interact with animal owners and evaluate and prepare treatment plans for your patients.