Academic Requirements
The admissions committee views a solid and broad undergraduate experience to be crucial preparation for successful completion of the veterinary curriculum. When evaluating an applicant, the committee considers both academic and non-academic qualities.
The committee assesses an applicant’s potential to complete the rigorous veterinary curriculum by reviewing their academic indices, including GPA, grades in science courses, course load, and academic honors. A strong academic record is crucial for succeeding in the demanding DVM program. The committee also considers extenuating circumstances, such as work and family demands, as well as economic, cultural, and educational challenges, when evaluating an applicant’s academic history.
Academic review
- Prerequisite coursework (with a grade of C- or higher before entering our program)
- Four GPAs as calculated in the VMCAS application
- Cumulative GPA (all courses)
- Science GPA (physical and biological sciences)
- Last semester (45 hours) or quarter (60 hours) GPA
- DVM program science and math prerequisite courses GPA
- Course load and rigor
- Grades in upper division science courses
- Advanced degrees
- Record of academic honors, scholarships, etc.
- Completion of the baccalaureate degree prior to matriculation to the DVM program is recommended, but not required.
Due to the size and strength of the non-resident pool, all non-resident applicants first receive a preliminary screening based on their academic record.
Applicants with a science GPA above 3.5 and a last 45 semester (60 quarter) credit GPA above 3.6 are generally considered to have a previous record of academic excellence indicative of success within the professional veterinary curriculum. Non-resident applicants who meet the GPA criteria are automatically forwarded to the admissions committee for further review of their academic background and additional application criteria.
Non-resident applicants who do not automatically advance through the preliminary screen are further evaluated for additional evidence of academic success in a secondary screening. This process is designed to identify qualified applicants despite a more modest academic background. Factors such as the last 45 credit hour GPA, prerequisite GPA, academic rigor, work or family responsibilities, and extenuating circumstances are considered. Both the academic and non-academic criteria of an application are reviewed during this process to ensure that the college is admitting a class that reflects a broad diversity of anticipated career pathways and goals, life experience and circumstance, and stated interests in serving the veterinary profession and society.