Yes, you can go to vet school abroad. In fact, with around 4,000 vet school seat openings each year and only 33 programs in the U.S. that are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association® (AVMA®), looking into vet schools abroad may help you reach your goal of becoming a veterinarian sooner.
Why Consider Veterinary School Abroad?
Broader Opportunities
Completing an accredited Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program abroad offers unique opportunities and provides an education that’s on par with what’s offered in the U.S. It also provides a global perspective on veterinary medicine and allows you to expand your professional network beyond your home country.
Since there are limited seats available at U.S. vet schools, applying internationally can open up more education options. Studying abroad also offers opportunities to learn about and treat diverse animal species.
Unique Learning Experiences
Gaining experience abroad may also make you more competitive when entering the workforce upon graduation, as your unique perspective and experiences can strengthen your resume. Living overseas can also accelerate your personal growth by fostering independence, adaptability, and resilience.
Accelerated Path to a DVM
Another reason to consider attending vet school abroad is the possibility of completing an accelerated path to your degree. Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine’s DVM program, accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education® (AVMA COE®), can be completed in just 3.25 years.
Adventure
In addition to unique learning opportunities in the classroom, you’ll also likely have access to enriching cultural experiences outside of class. Living in a new country can make your vet school years a time you will never forget.
What You Need To Know When Considering Vet School Abroad
The decision to pursue vet school abroad will require some research and planning. Not every school will work with your career goals, so it’s important to consider the following:
Accreditation and Licensing
When choosing an international veterinary program, be sure to pick one that is AVMA-accredited. Graduating from an AVMA-accredited program prepares students to pursue licensure in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico by taking the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination® (NAVLE®).
You’ll need to apply for the exam through both the national application and a state/territorial application. The application typically requires a letter of good standing from the dean of your college, along with your expected graduation date, as you must be in your final year of vet school (or have recently graduated) to take the exam.
Canadian students should contact the National Examining Board (NEB) and follow its guidance.
Schools such as Ross Vet have high NAVLE pass rates, and graduates go on to work as vets in the U.S., Canada, and beyond.
For students who want to pursue employment abroad after licensure, schools that hold multiple accreditations are a good choice. Ross Vet holds accreditations from:
- AVMA COE
- St. Kitts-Nevis Accreditation Board, Ministry of Education
- American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
- AAALAC International
- International Accreditation of Counseling Services (IACS)
Non-AVMA Accredited DVM Programs Abroad
Graduates of non-accredited programs can still earn licensure, but they have to complete a few extra steps before they’re eligible to practice in Canada and/or the U.S. Those wanting to practice in Canada can pursue a Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE®) certificate or complete AVMA’S certification program. Those planning to practice in the U.S. can earn their Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) certificate.
These verify enrollment and/or credentials, test English proficiency, assess basic veterinary science principles, and evaluate practical skills.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Many international veterinary programs accept students immediately after high school, particularly those located in Europe and Australia.
If you have a bachelor’s degree, you may be able to take advantage of a shorter, graduate-entry track and accelerate your veterinary program. Whether you enter vet school from high school or college, you will need a strong background in sciences like biology and chemistry, so focus on earning the best grades you can in those classes. Hands-on veterinary experience (which can include shadowing or volunteer work) is often required by international vet programs.
Just as with U.S. veterinary schools, many international vet schools conduct interviews as part of their admission process. These interviews are an opportunity to demonstrate your passion for and understanding of animal medicine and the veterinary profession. Sharing relevant stories about your experiences and the impact they made on you can make you a more memorable candidate.
Applying to a veterinary school abroad is similar to applying to a veterinary school in the U.S., with a few key differences. For instance, many programs abroad take a more holistic approach to their admission process.
While some U.S. and international veterinary schools require either the Graduate Record Examination® (GRE®) or the Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®) for admission, some may not. Some European programs require applicants to take a school-specific exam or they request SAT or ACT scores (for American applicants), but this is usually on a case-by-case basis.
Regardless of where you apply, you should start the application process early.
Application Documents and Deadlines
Application deadlines for fall entry into international vet programs can be as early as January, so you’ll want to start preparing your application documents well in advance. Some schools have rolling admissions or multiple intakes.
Ross Vet accepts applications year-round and has start dates in January, May, and September.
Once admitted to school abroad, you’ll need to secure a student visa for the country in which you’ll be living and studying. Your school can usually assist you with this part. Be sure to follow instructions for submitting proper documentation, and pay attention to deadlines.
Language and Cultural Adaptation
Check the language of instruction at any institution you apply to abroad. The good news for English speakers is that many programs in non-English-speaking countries offer courses in English for international students.
If you opt to attend a veterinary school that does not offer courses in English, you will need to be proficient in the language in which the classes are offered, or enroll in intensive language courses.
Even if your classes are in English, it's a good idea to learn some of the local language. It will help you in daily life and show respect for your host country and culture.
In addition to any language barriers, you may find that educational styles differ from what you’re used to in the United States. Professor-student dynamics may not be the same, or you might see a difference in the lecture vs. hands-on learning balance.
Remember to keep an open mind, as it’s all part of the experience of studying abroad. If you need help adjusting to cultural differences, consider seeking out student groups or tutors that focus on supporting international students. Many schools even have clubs or buddy systems that can help you integrate into your new environment and overcome any homesickness you may feel.
Finances
When choosing which vet school to attend, one of your primary concerns will likely be financing. You’ll want to consider not only the cost of tuition and fees, but also living expenses.
Tuition
Tuition for veterinary school varies by country and institution. In the Caribbean, the U.K., and Australia, it is typically comparable to that of private veterinary schools in the U.S. While some European universities (especially public ones) may have lower tuition costs, it’s important to take any language barriers into consideration.
Living Expenses
The cost of living will be different anywhere you go, and you’ll need to factor that amount into your total cost of study. The cost of living is generally higher in larger cities and lower in rural areas or smaller towns. You should also consider travel costs such as flights home during school breaks or extended trips you choose to take in the new country.
Return on Investment
Less expensive programs, or even programs that help students save on undergraduate tuition by offering entry without a bachelor’s degree, can help reduce total loan debt after graduation.
Academic Quality and Clinical Experience
A rigorous curriculum that meets high academic standards is nonnegotiable when choosing a vet school abroad. Ross Vet’s curriculum is modeled on curricula offered at U.S. vet schools, covering all of the same core subjects, including anatomy, pharmacology, and surgery. Hands-on, experiential learning prepares students for the clinical part of their studies.
Clinical Rotations
Toward the end of a veterinary program, students engage in clinical training to gain hands-on learning experience. Many schools partner with veterinary training hospitals for final-year rotations.
Students at some Caribbean and international schools complete their clinical year in the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., gaining exposure to similar caseloads as students attending U.S. veterinary schools. Other international schools have on-site teaching hospitals with world-class facilities.
Verify that any schools you are considering offer robust clinical training, including a large number of cases, varied species, and externship opportunities.
Faculty and Research
Many international vet schools have faculty who trained or practiced in other countries and are leaders in their specific fields. Some of these schools also engage in cutting-edge research and demonstrate a high standard of academic quality.
Student Success
Last but not least, it’s important to learn about the success of graduates from the veterinary schools you are considering. With an 85% NAVLE pass rate for 2023-2024as reported to the AVMA COE, Ross Vet continues to surpass the AVMA COE's 80% benchmark. Ross Vet has maintained pass rates at or above 81% for the past five years (2020-2024), distinguishing it as the sole Caribbean AVMA-accredited veterinary school to consistently meet this standard.
How To Choose the Right Vet School Abroad
Choosing the right school involves many considerations. So, how do you narrow down your options?
Here are a few tips to help you decide:
- List your priorities.
- Decide what matters most to you in a school. For example, is location a big factor? Or are you more concerned with cost? Do you want to specialize in a specific area? Listing your priorities can help you pinpoint what is most important, allowing you to filter schools accordingly.
- Research accredited programs.
- Do your homework to find out which international vet programs are accredited. Consult the AVMA list of international schools with accredited programs as a starting point. Only consider reputable non-AVMA programs if you are willing to complete extra steps for licensure.
- Attend info sessions and webinars.
- Many schools, including Ross Vet, host webinars or have admissions advisors available to speak with prospective students. Take advantage of these opportunities to ask questions and learn as much as you can about schools you are considering.
- Connect with students and alumni.
- A great way to gain firsthand insight into any vet school is by talking to someone who has been through the program. You can usually connect with current or former students through a school’s social media pages or other online forums.
- Consider future plans.
- How do you envision your future as a veterinarian? If you want to work in a specific country, getting your education there could simplify things—for example, by making you eligible for licensure in that country upon graduation.
- Visit the campus.
- If at all possible, visit the campus before you decide. If you cannot visit in person, at least take a virtual tour. Getting a feel for the environment can help solidify your decision. Many international schools offer students the chance to visit the campus as part of an open house.
What To Expect After Vet School Abroad
Once you complete your studies and obtain licensure, it’s time to apply for jobs. Graduates of international schools may go on to work in private clinics, pursue competitive internships, or specialize in a specific area of veterinary medicine through a residency.
You may be privy to a wider range of opportunities due to the global network you’ve built during your studies, rotations, residencies, and more. Your experience living in a foreign country and adapting to a new culture (and maybe even a different language) may make you a compelling applicant.
Ross Vet: A Quality Education in St. Kitts
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine was one of the first vet programs abroad to achieve accreditation from AVMA, in 2011. Graduates of our DVM program in St. Kitts go on to practice veterinary medicine worldwide. They are eligible to pursue licensure in the United States and Canada through NAVLE.
Program Structure
Unlike traditional four-year DVM programs, Ross Vet’s rigorous course of study can be completed in 3.25 years.
After their pre-clinical studies, students have the opportunity to complete their year of clinical rotations at affiliated AVMA-accredited schools in the U.S., Canada, and beyond. This global experience equips Ross Vet graduates with a world-focused mindset, preparing them for whatever their future holds.
Hands-On Training
Ross Vet emphasizes hands-on experiences both on and off campus in St. Kitts. On the island, students work with a variety of animals on our farm and in the surrounding ocean. Unlike many other institutions, our campus offers direct access to a wide range of exotic species, enabling future veterinarians to explore diverse specialties.
Student Diversity and Support
Our student body is diverse, consisting of international students from the U.S., Canada, and beyond. Students have the opportunity to build relationships and form a community with peers from around the world, broadening their cultural awareness. We offer a range of student clubs and activities to enrich the student experience.
Ross Vet offers housing support, help adjusting to island life, and a rich campus life second to none. A special perk? Students are welcome to bring pets and emotional support animals with them to the island.
Unique Environment With Proven Outcomes
Our St. Kitts campus offers students the opportunity to excel academically while enjoying scenic beaches and vibrant Caribbean culture. Treating farm animals and exotics in a tropical paradise is as good as it gets.
Ross Vet graduates are eligible to earn licensure through the NAVLE. Many graduates go on to private practice, government agencies, research, and specialty fields.
Your Future Awaits
Attending vet school abroad is a valid and exciting pathway to becoming a veterinarian. You’ll need to plan carefully, but it will be well worth the effort when you graduate with your DVM and an incredible college experience.
It’s important to keep an open mind and do your research when searching for the school that’s right for you. Remember that whether you attend veterinary school in your home country or abroad, what matters most is fulfilling your dream of becoming a compassionate, skilled veterinarian who loves their job. You can achieve your dreams in many corners of the world.
Embarking on an international journey to obtain your veterinary education might seem daunting at first, but it may just be the best decision you ever make.
Interested in studying at Ross Vet? Learn more on our admissions page or reach out to one of our team members for a more personalized experience. Discover what we have to offer today!
