Whether they're pets, livestock or working animals, animals matter to individuals and society. Every community needs veterinary professionals to provide animal health care, but veterinarians provide many other services. They make sure the nation's food supply is safe. They work to control the spread of diseases. They conduct research that helps both animals and humans. Veterinarians are at the forefront of protecting the public's health and welfare. (Learn more from the Association of American Veterinary Colleges, AAVMC)
Vet Med Planning Guide
A printable handout with information about preparing for and applying to vet schools.
Vet Med Applicant Outcomes
17 recent alums have gone on to veterinary school.
Academic Preparation
Although many preveterinary students major in EEB, there is no required or recommended major. Preveterinary students pursue their major alongside veterinary school prerequisites:
Often include:
- General Chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
- Organic Chemistry with lab (2 semesters)
- Physics with lab (2 semesters)
- Introductory Biology with lab (2 semesters)
- Biochemistry (1 semester)
- Math: 1 semester calculus, 1 semester statistics
- English (2 semesters)
- Advanced Biology (e.g., Genetics, Microbiology)
Sometimes include:
- Public Speaking
- Social science and humanities electives
- Required hours of work with animals
Check individual schools as requirements vary widely. For more specific information, see: AAVMC Summary of Course Prerequisites Chart (pdf)
Cocurricular Preparation
Application logistics
- Apply in the late summer/fall, about 14 months before intended entry.
- The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required by some programs. The GRE comprises three sections: Reading Comprehension; Quantitative Reasoning; and Analytical Writing.
- Most programs participate in the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS). VMCAS opens in May with fall deadlines.
- Program requirements vary, but expect to have at least three letters of recommendation. HPA can store copies of letters of recommendation, but recommenders will ultimately send references through the VMCAS eLOR system. Veterinary programs do not require a committee letter of recommendation.
Schools where recent alums matriculated
DVM Matriculant Profiles
“Take your time to gain clinical experience in the field.”
For more information
Princeton University does not have a veterinary program. We share this information for Princeton students and alumni who may be interested in becoming veterinarians.