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Applying to Vet Med- Advice (urgent)

I sat my exams this year and achieved AAA which I know is the requirement for most vet schools, however I currently do not have any work experience which I know is very sought after for vet med. I did complete an animal care level 2 BTEC so have some handling experience as well as dog ownership and many years of horse riding experience. I am going to complete online courses, some time volunteering at the stables and hopefully I should have a week at a small animal practice organised (tbc) but I am wondering if this is enough and what my chances are of getting in if anyone else has been in a similar position? I am also considering contacting unis directly to enquire if this is a good idea since I already have my grades.
(edited 2 months ago)

Reply 1

You need to check individual unis, the main reason for vet work experience is so you actually know what you are getting yourself in for… don’t have any customer facing experience eg part time job? That is looked at favourably! A lot of unis now don’t care massively for work ex although you shouldn’t just be doing it to tick a box

Reply 2

It sounds as though you will be applying in October for next year entry?

As above, check each uni - they all lay out what they require.

Some count, or at least look favourably, on placements you have secured in the future, past the application deadline. I would try and get as much as you can in before application/interview, then perhaps plan some for later on too. Try to get clinical placements (smallies and large animal) and husbandry placements (stables, dairy/lambing (seasonal but still possible to find autumn calving / winter lambing); and anything else like customer facing roles, labs, exotics are a bonus. I feel most places ask for around 2-3 weeks but definitely check.

In general you will need to demonstrate an understanding for the profession and your drive to be a vet so boost your application by reading around current affairs, online MOOCs, etc.

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