University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine
UC Davis in Davis, California, is known for its innovative research, exceptional clinical training, and its focus on both small and large animals. It consistently ranks among the top 3 institutes for veterinary science in the world. Being a leader in veterinary education, UC Davis offers students the chance to work with top veterinarians in a state-of-the-art teaching hospital.
Admission Criteria
The UC Davis vet school requirements are quite competitive. The institute accepts applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.0, but competitive applicants generally have GPAs closer to 3.5 or higher. Required courses include biology, chemistry, and physics.
UC Davis values hands-on experience in veterinary clinics, farms, or animal shelters. While the GRE is optional, it is recommended for applicants with lower GPAs.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $39,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $52,000 per year
The school offers various financial aid options, including scholarships and low-interest loans.
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Located in Ithaca, New York, Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the top-ranked schools in the world. Known for its comprehensive veterinary curriculum, it offers a blend of clinical education, research opportunities, and community outreach. Cornell’s teaching hospital provides excellent hands-on experience, making it a favorite among students.
Admission Criteria
Cornell’s veterinary school is highly competitive. Applicants are required to have a minimum GPA of 3.5, with a preference for those who score well on the GRE, though it is not mandatory. Applicants must complete required coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, along with significant veterinary or animal care experience.
Strong letters of recommendation and a demonstrated passion for animal welfare are also essential.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $46,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $58,000 per year
Financial aid is available, including need-based scholarships and loan programs.
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, CSU College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences is well-regarded for its strong emphasis on veterinary research and clinical practice. The college offers specialized programs in areas such as zoological medicine, public health, and epidemiology, preparing students for diverse veterinary careers.
Admission Criteria
Applicants to CSU need a minimum GPA of 3.0, with competitive applicants having GPAs closer to 3.5. Required coursework includes biology, chemistry, and animal science. Clinical experience is highly valued, and CSU looks for applicants with a passion for working with animals.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $30,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $55,000 per year
CSU offers scholarships and financial aid options to help students manage tuition costs.
North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine
NC State College of Veterinary Medicine in Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a comprehensive veterinary program with a focus on clinical experience and research in areas like infectious diseases and neurology. Students have access to the NC State Veterinary Hospital, one of the largest teaching hospitals in the country.
Admission Criteria
NC State requires applicants to have a GPA of at least 3.5. The program looks for candidates with completed coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as substantial experience in veterinary care. The GRE is not required, but relevant experience in veterinary settings is essential.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $26,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $47,000 per year
NC State offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and grants.
University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is home to one of the best veterinary programs in the U.S., focusing on clinical education, research, and advanced specialties. The school is particularly strong in immunology, pharmacology, and veterinary genetics.
Admission Criteria
Applicants need a GPA of at least 3.0, with competitive candidates having GPAs closer to 3.5 or above. Prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and physics are required. Relevant experience in veterinary clinics or animal care is essential. The GRE is optional but may strengthen an application.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $28,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $47,000 per year
The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers financial aid packages including scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities.
University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine is known for its research excellence and clinical training. The program offers students opportunities to specialize in fields like surgery, oncology, and cardiology.
Admission Criteria
Applicants to Penn Vet need a minimum GPA of 3.0, but competitive applicants typically have GPAs of 3.5 or higher. Required courses include biology, chemistry, and physics. Clinical experience and strong letters of recommendation are important, and while the GRE is not required, it can still be submitted to strengthen an application.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $45,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $58,000 per year
Penn Vet offers several scholarships, financial aid packages, and loan programs to help cover tuition costs.
University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine
The University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine is located in Gainesville and offers one of the most comprehensive veterinary programs in the country. The school focuses on clinical training and research, particularly in fields like public health and pathology.
Admission Criteria
The University of Florida requires applicants to have a GPA of at least 3.0, with most successful candidates having GPAs closer to 3.5. Applicants must complete courses in biology, chemistry, and physics and have relevant animal experience. The GRE is optional.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $27,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $44,000 per year
The University of Florida offers financial aid, including merit-based scholarships, loans, and grants.
University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine
The UGA College of Veterinary Medicine is known for its focus on clinical education and research in veterinary medicine. UGA’s College of Veterinary Medicine offers students access to one of the largest veterinary teaching hospitals in the country. It also offers opportunities for research in areas like zoonotic diseases and veterinary surgery.
Admission Criteria
UGA requires a GPA of at least 3.0, with competitive applicants generally having GPAs of 3.5 or above. Prerequisite courses include biology, chemistry, and physics, and applicants should have experience working with animals. The GRE is not required for admission.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $18,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $40,000 per year
UGA offers financial aid through scholarships, work-study programs, and low-interest loans.
Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
Texas A&M, located in College Station, Texas, offers one of the best veterinary programs in the country. Known for its expertise in equine medicine, veterinary surgery, and zoonotic diseases, the program prepares students for a wide variety of veterinary specialties.
Admission Criteria
Texas A&M requires a GPA of 3.2 or higher. Prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and physics must be completed, and applicants should have experience working with animals. While the GRE is not required, it may be used to strengthen an application.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $22,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $46,000 per year
Texas A&M offers financial aid options, including scholarships, loans, and grants.
Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine offers a highly respected veterinary program with a strong focus on clinical training and research. The program is known for its work in veterinary epidemiology, animal surgery, and veterinary pharmacology.
Admission Criteria
Applicants need a GPA of at least 3.0, with competitive applicants typically having GPAs of 3.5 or higher. Required coursework includes biology, chemistry, and physics, along with veterinary experience. The GRE is not required but may be submitted for consideration.
Tuition Costs:
- In-state tuition: Approximately $28,000 per year
- Out-of-state tuition: Approximately $50,000 per year
Ohio State offers several financial aid programs to help students, including scholarships and loan opportunities.
What are the best pre-vet schools in the US?
Several universities in the U.S. are known for their excellent pre-vet programs that provide strong foundations for students planning to pursue veterinary school.
While there isn’t any official ranking, some of the top institutes are:
- University of California, Davis
- Cornell University
- Purdue University
- University of Florida
- Michigan State University
- Texas A&M University
- University of Georgia
- North Carolina State University
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Washington State University
What are the Top 10 best veterinary schools in the world?
If you’re looking to pursue a veterinary science degree in one of the finest institutes across the globe, here are the top-ranked vet schools according to QS rankings 2024.
- Royal Veterinary College, UK
- University of California, Davis, USA
- Cornell University, USA
- Vetsuisse Faculty Bern and Zurich, Switzerland
- Utrecht University, Netherlands
- University of Pennsylvania, USA
- Texas A&M University, USA
- University of Guelph, Canada
- University of Edinburgh, UK
- Colorado State University, USA
The Royal Veterinary College has maintained its top position for the fourth consecutive year.
Note: QS rankings have yet to release an official list of the best veterinary schools in 2025. The list above is for the academic year 2024.
Closing Notes,
Choosing the right veterinary school is the first step toward building a successful career in animal care and medicine. Each of these top institutions offers unique opportunities to help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference in the world of veterinary science.
If you're looking to apply to one of these prestigious schools, we can help you put together a standout application. With our expert admission essay writing service and personal statement writing service, we can assist you in highlighting your passion for animals and your commitment to the field of veterinary medicine.
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