The American Kennel Club (AKC), in conjunction with Bayer Pharmaceutical's K-9 Advantage and the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), has an established scholarship fund for students of veterinary technology. As of the 2010-2011 school year, 25 applicants are selected yearly, each receiving a $1,000 scholarship.
Candidates applying for the scholarship must be full time students at an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) certified school, pursuing a degree in veterinary technology. Students must be members of NAVTA to qualify. To be considered for the AKC scholarship fund, you must submit a copy of your school transcripts, a copy of your NAVTA membership card and an application and typed essay. Scholarships are awarded based on an evaluation of your academic achievement and potential, activities related to small animals or research and involvement in NAVTA. The deadline for applications is in April of each year.
As a vet tech student, you have the option of choosing a specialization. As of 2010, there are six specialties available for vet tech students: emergency and critical care, anesthesiology, dental technology, internal medicine, equine health and behavioral science. For students seeking a specialization in behavioral sciences, the Society of Veterinary Behavioral Technicians offers four separate scholarships. The requirements for each vary, and awards range up to $2,000 per student.
Oxbow Animal Health provides a yearly award of $500 to two qualified veterinary technician students who show an interest in exotic animal health. To apply, you must submit a scholarship application, letter of reference, proof of enrollment in an accredited veterinary technology program, transcript and current grade point average (GPA), as well as an essay describing your interest in the exotic animal field of medicine. Scholarship recipients are announced in May of each year.