Top 12 Vet Schools in the US for 2025: Rankings & Admission Details

Dreaming of a Career in Veterinary Medicine? Discover the Top Vet Schools in the US for 2025 with insights on rankings, admission tips, and why they’re the best! As the demand for skilled veterinary professionals continues to grow, selecting the right veterinary school is a critical step for aspiring veterinarians. In this guide, we explore the top 12 vet schools in the US for 2025, covering their rankings, programs, admission requirements, and more. Whether you’re passionate about small animal care, large animal medicine, or research, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.

For many animal enthusiasts, becoming a veterinarian is their ideal career path. It’s a journey including compassion, devotion, and a desire to improve the lives of both animals and their owners. Finding the vet schools in the US, where knowledge and passion collide, is the first step towards achieving this fulfilling job. It prepares future veterinarians to take the lead in their area. You’re in the right place if you want to enroll in one of the best veterinary schools in the United States.

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Top Vet Schools in the US

In addition to providing top-notch instruction, America’s best veterinary schools also provide a sense of belonging, opportunities for lifelong relationships, and the ability to truly influence the animal care industry. Regardless of your interest in exotic species, big or little animals, these schools offer outstanding chances for experiential learning and state-of-the-art research. Come us as we tour some of the top vet schools in the US, where veterinary medicine’s future is being created and where you can start your career as a veterinarian!

Why Choosing the Right Vet School Matters

Selecting the vet schools in the US is a pivotal decision for aspiring veterinarians. It goes beyond earning a degree; it shapes your career trajectory and influences your expertise in this specialized field. Here’s why this choice is so important:

Comprehensive Education: Top vet schools provide rigorous academic and practical training, ensuring you master essential skills for diagnosing and treating animals.
Specialized Training Opportunities: The right school offers programs tailored to your interests, whether in small animal care, wildlife conservation, or food animal medicine.
Cutting-Edge Research: Renowned schools are at the forefront of veterinary research, giving you access to innovative practices and technologies.
Networking and Career Support: A strong alumni network and career services help you secure internships, jobs, and mentorships.
Accreditation and Reputation: Attending a school accredited by bodies like the AVMA enhances your credentials, making you a more competitive candidate globally.

1. University of California, Davis

Tuition Fees: $44,000–$45,000/year
Requirements for Admission: ACT 26–32, SAT 1250–1460, or GPA 3.8+

The UC Davis veterinary program is a global leader among the best veterinary schools worldwide and was ranked #1 in veterinary medicine among the top vet schools in the US. Located in Davis, California, with a 46% acceptance rate. For those who want to become veterinarians, it provides opportunities that are unmatched. Its Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital offers more than 28 specialty services, giving students practical training in areas like livestock management, marine animal medicine, and wildlife health.

With more than $85 million a year, UC Davis has one of the biggest funding portfolios for veterinary research. The program’s dedication to academic and clinical excellence is demonstrated by its 98% NAVLE pass rate and minimum science GPA requirement of 3.4. Its externships and global health programs equip graduates for meaningful professions across the globe.

2. Cornell University

Tuition Fees: $62,000–$63,000/year
Requirements for Admission: GPA 4.0+, SAT 1450–1560 or ACT 32–35

With an acceptance rate of 10%, the Cornell veterinary program, which is situated in Ithaca, New York, is ranked third among the top vet schools in the US. It provides a demanding four-year DVM program that includes more than 1,200 hours of clinical experience. The Cornell University Hospital for Animals provides students with practical experience. The hospital serves more than 80,000 cases a year and offers specializations in zoological medicine, animal health, and shelter medicine.

The program, which has an annual research budget of more than $35 million, promotes innovation in infectious illnesses and animal health. With a remarkable 98% NAVLE pass record, the program demands a minimum science GPA of 3.5. Learn about the Cornell University acceptance rate in detail, including important elements that affect the success of your application, to get a sense of how competitive admissions are at Cornell.

3. Colorado State University

Tuition Fees: $31,000–$32,000/year
Admission Requirements: GPA 3.3+, SAT 1070–1280 or ACT 22–27

According to the US News Ranking, Colorado State University’s veterinary program came in at number two among the vet schools in the US. With an acceptance rate of 81%, this Fort Collins, Colorado-based school provides a thorough DVM curriculum that emphasizes animal care innovation and practical training. The program, which admits about 142 students year, has a 95% success rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), higher than the 88% national average.

A minimum GPA of 3.5 in science is required for admission. The James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, which treats more than 42,000 patients a year and guarantees substantial clinical exposure, provides students with hands-on experience. With cutting-edge facilities and a strong emphasis on research, CSU equips graduates for a variety of veterinary science vocations.

4. University of Pennsylvania

Tuition Fees: $63,000–$64,000/year
Requirements for Admission: GPA 4.0+, SAT 1460–1570 or ACT 33–35

The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine is among the top five veterinary schools in the US. With an acceptance rate of 8%, this Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based university provides a top-notch DVM program that blends state-of-the-art research with first-quality clinical training. Penn Vet, one of the top vet schools in the US, gives students access to famous facilities including the New Bolton Center for large animals and Ryan Veterinary Hospital for companion animals, which treats more than 50,000 cases a year.

With more than $30 million in research funding, it supports improvements in cardiology, horse medicine, and oncology. The program demands a minimum scientific GPA of 3.5 and has an impressive 98% NAVLE pass rate. This list of prominent University of Pennsylvania alumni tells you more about the outstanding accomplishments of its graduates.

5. Ohio State University

Tuition Fees: $35,000–$36,000/year
Requirements for Admission: GPA 3.7+, SAT 1250–1450 or ACT 27–32

Located in Columbus, Ohio, the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine is famous for its cutting-edge facilities and significant research. It is considered as one of the top vet schools in the US as it ranked #3 in US News Ranking. Its demanding DVM program admits about 162 students annually with an acceptance rate of 54%. Students must have a minimum science GPA of 3.5 and a stunning 95% NAVLE success rate, which is significantly higher than the national average of 89%.

With over 35,000 patients treated each year, the Veterinary Medical Center—one of the biggest and busiest teaching hospitals in the nation—offers unmatched clinical exposure. With significant contributions to infectious diseases, cancer, and food animal health, Ohio State receives more than $23 million in research funding each year. Being the sole veterinary college in Ohio, it continues to be a prominent national and Ohio veterinary school.

6. North Carolina State University

Tuition Fees: $29,000–$30,000/year
Requirements for Admission: GPA 3.6+, SAT 1250–1390 or ACT 26–30

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine is rated as one of the top vet schools in the US. With a focus on clinical excellence and research, the university provides one of the greatest veterinary programs in the US. The program admits 93 residents and 23 non-residents annually, with an acceptance rate of 45%, making it extremely competitive.

Every year, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital treats more than 45,000 cases and offers practical clinical experience in a range of specializations. The program has a 95% NAVLE pass rate and a minimum science GPA requirement of 3.4. In order to prepare students for prosperous careers in veterinary medicine, NC State, one of the best veterinary schools in the US, specializes in fields like food supply medicine, companion animal medicine, and biomedical research.

7. University of Florida

Tuition Fees: $28,000–$29,000/year
Requirements for Admission: SAT 1310–1450, ACT 28–32, or GPA 4.1+

The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, which is situated in Gainesville, Florida, is ranked #7 among the best veterinary schools in the US and is well-known for its veterinary programs in Florida. It provides a thorough DVM curriculum that blends rigorous coursework with practical clinical experience. It has a demanding admissions process, admitting about 145 students annually with an average GPA of 3.7 and a 37% acceptance rate, making it one of the top universities in Florida.

Over 30,000 cases are handled annually at UF’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital, offering a wealth of clinical experience. UF is regarded as one of the top vet schools in the US, with a 95% NAVLE pass rate. With specializations in wildlife medicine, emergency care, and small animal surgery, it is a top option among US veterinary colleges.

8. University of Wisconsin–Madison

Tuition Fees: $38,000–$39,000/year
Requirements for Admission: SAT 1320–1480, ACT 28–32, or GPA 3.8+

A very competitive DVM program is offered by the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, which is ranked #7 among the top vet schools in the US and the finest veterinary schools in the US. The program accepts about 120 students annually, with an admission rate of 54%. Admitted students had an average GPA of 3.66, with a science GPA of 3.65. The UW Veterinary Care Hospital, run by the school, treats more than 30,000 patients a year and gives students a lot of practical clinical experience.

The curriculum outperforms the national norm with a 96% pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE). With more than $15 million in research funding each year, UW-Madison, one of the best veterinary schools in the US, provides a thorough curriculum with a strong emphasis on research.

9. University of Georgia

Tuition Fees: $31,000–$32,000/year
Requirements for Admission: ACT 27–32, SAT 1300–1450, or GPA 3.9+

Located in Athens, Georgia, the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine is regarded as one of the top veterinary schools in Georgia and is ranked #7 among the top veterinary schools in the US. Its highly respected DVM program makes it one of the best veterinary programs in the US. About 150 students are admitted annually with an average GPA of 3.69 and an acceptance rate of 48%.

The training places a lot of emphasis on topics including food animal health, emergency care, and small animal surgery. Every year, UGA’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital treats more than 25,000 cases, providing a wealth of practical expertise. UGA’s dedication to offering one of the best veterinary education programs is demonstrated by its 95% pass record on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), which places it among the top vet schools in the US.

10. Texas A&M University

Tuition Fees: $40,000–$41,000/year
Requirements for Admission: ACT 25–31, SAT 1170–1390, or GPA 3.8+

A very competitive DVM program is offered by the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, which is situated in College Station, Texas and is ranked #10 among the top vet schools in the US. With a 63% admission rate and an annual enrollment of about 180 students, it is one of the top animal medicine institutions in Texas, guaranteeing individualized attention and a demanding curriculum. A minimum GPA of 3.5 in science is required for admission.

With almost 30,000 cases treated each year, the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital offers students excellent practical clinical experience. Texas A&M has established itself as a leader in veterinary education and research with a 93% pass record on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE), making it one of the top veterinary colleges and one of the best veterinary schools in the US.

11. Iowa State University

Tuition Fees: $25,000–$26,000/year
Requirements for Admission: ACT 22–28, SAT 1080–1320, or GPA 3.6+

The Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, which is located in Ames, Iowa, is regarded as one of the top vet schools in the US and is ranked #11 among the top vet schools in Iowa by U.S. News & World Report. The college has been offering top-notch veterinary education since 1879. The US has one of the best veterinary colleges. Approximately 160 students are admitted each year to the program, which has an 88% acceptance rate and requires a science GPA of 3.53.

With specific tracks in small animal, equine, food animal, and mixed animal studies, Iowa State, one of the top veterinary colleges in the US, guarantees graduates thorough instruction. With its cutting-edge research and dedication to veterinary excellence, Iowa State University has graduated more than 7,500 veterinarians and is one of the top vet schools in the US today.

12. Auburn University

Tuition Fees: $31,000–$32,000/year
Requirements for Admission: ACT 22–28, SAT 1080–1320, or GPA 3.6+

Known for its exceptional Auburn veterinary curriculum, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, situated in Auburn, Alabama, is regularly ranked #11 among the vet schools in the US. Offering a thorough DVM program that blends demanding coursework with substantial clinical practice, it is among the best veterinary schools in the US. For the Class of 2024, the program’s pass rate on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) is 95%, which is higher than the national average.

A minimum GPA of 3.5 in science is required for admission. About 130 students are admitted annually, with a 71% acceptance rate. Tuition for Alabama residents is $27,254, while that of non-residents is $50,026. Auburn, one of the top veterinary colleges in the US, prepares graduates for success in the veterinary field by offering specialized training in small animal, equine, and food animal medicine.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduating from a vet schools in the US opens the door to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities. Veterinary professionals are in high demand across various industries, offering diverse paths to align with your interests and expertise. Here are some prominent career options:

Clinical Practice: Work as a veterinarian in private practices, caring for small or large animals. Specialize in areas like dermatology, cardiology, or emergency medicine.
Zoological and Wildlife Medicine: Treat exotic animals in zoos or focus on wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
Public Health and Food Safety: Serve in government roles to ensure animal and public health. Work with organizations like the USDA or CDC to manage zoonotic diseases.
Veterinary Research: Engage in groundbreaking research on animal health, pharmaceuticals, or disease prevention. Work along with private businesses or academic organizations.
Agricultural and Livestock Management: Support sustainable farming by ensuring the health and welfare of livestock.
Education and Academia: Train the next generation of veterinarians as a professor or educator.
Regulatory Affairs and Policy: Shape animal health policies and compliance standards in governmental or global agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the criteria for selecting the best vet schools in the US?

The best vet schools are evaluated based on accreditation (e.g., AVMA), program quality, faculty expertise, research opportunities, clinical training facilities, and post-graduation success rates. Prospective students should prioritize schools offering specialized tracks in their field of interest.

2. What is the average cost of attending a top vet schools in the US?

Tuition for veterinary programs varies, with public universities charging $20,000–$50,000 annually for in-state students and private institutions costing $40,000–$70,000 annually. Factor in housing, books, and other expenses when planning your budget. Financial aid and scholarships are available at most top institutions.

3. What GPA and test scores are needed to get into a top vet schools in the US?

Admission requirements differ, but most top schools require a minimum GPA of 3.5 and competitive GRE scores (if applicable). Strong letters of recommendation, relevant experience, and a compelling personal statement are also critical.

4. What opportunities for specialization do top vet schools in the US offer?

Leading vet schools provide a range of specializations, including small and large animal medicine, exotic animal care, equine medicine, surgery, oncology, and wildlife conservation. Check each program’s curriculum to ensure your chosen specialty is available.

5. Are internships or residency programs required after graduating from vet school?

While not always required, internships and residencies are strongly recommended for those pursuing specialized fields or advanced certifications. These programs provide hands-on experience, enhance employability, and are often prerequisites for board certification in specialties.

In conclusion, the journey to becoming a veterinarian begins with selecting the right educational institution, and the top vet schools in the US for 2025 offer unmatched opportunities to excel. From cutting-edge facilities and specialized programs to robust research initiatives, these schools provide the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in veterinary medicine.

Each institution is carefully ranked based on academic excellence, faculty expertise, and student outcomes, ensuring you receive the best preparation for a dynamic field. With diverse career paths ranging from clinical practice and wildlife conservation to research and public health, the possibilities are limitless.

By understanding admission requirements and leveraging available resources, you can take the first step toward securing a place in these prestigious programs. Choose a school that aligns with your passions and goals, and embark on a rewarding journey to make a lasting impact in animal health and welfare.