Vet School Rankings, Admissions Figures, and NAVLE Pass Rates
Did you know that there are 32 colleges of veterinary medicine in the U.S.? While this number may sound large, acceptance into vet school remains extremely competitive. Based on data from the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges for the graduating Class of 2026, there were 10,834 unique applications, but only 3,860 first-year students were enrolled. This indicates that 36% of unique applications are accepted yearly, indicating an applicant-to-available-seat ratio of around 2.3. So, what does this mean?
Gaining an understanding of the highly competitive US veterinary school admissions environment will help students stand out and set themselves up for success.
In this blog, we’re going to dive into the admission requirements and figures for the top-rated vet schools in the US. This information is valuable for many audiences: whether you’re in school and starting to plan for your future or a practicing veterinarian looking to counsel prospective vet students, it’s important to weigh many factors when considering the right vet school. Here are some key areas for prospective students to consider:
- What are the top-rated vet schools?
- Where should you go if you want to pursue a certain specialty (ie, small animal medicine, large animal, emergency, exotics, etc)
Why Vet School Admissions Are So Competitive
What makes vet school admission so competitive is the high level of requirements just to have your application be considered. For most students, depending upon your point in the process, you likely already know this. For this article, here are some important areas we took into consideration when evaluating the top-rated vet schools in the U.S.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Veterinary School
Deciding where to pursue your Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) isn’t just about picking a name off the “Top 10” list—it’s about finding the program that matches your goals, strengths, and future career path. From hands-on clinical training to tuition costs, each school offers unique advantages (and challenges) that can shape your veterinary journey. The factors below will help you look beyond rankings and dig into what really matters when choosing the right fit for your education and career.
- Location: Where a school is based shapes more than your daily commute—it influences the types of animals you’ll work with, the regional caseload you’ll be exposed to. It will also play a role in the nearby internship or externship opportunities.
- Clinical Experience: Textbooks can teach theory, but only hands-on practice builds confident veterinarians. Pay close attention to how early and how often students are immersed in real clinical settings in their vet school career, as this directly impacts readiness for practice.
- Admission Testing Requirements: Most veterinary programs no longer require the GRE, but a handful still do. Confirm each school’s admissions criteria early, so you can plan accordingly and avoid last-minute surprises.
- Class Size/Seats Available: Each program admits a set number of students per year, which impacts not only your chance of admission but also your learning environment. Smaller cohorts often mean more individualized instruction, while larger classes may expand networking opportunities. Weigh these pros and cons carefully, and be sure to talk with vets currently practicing in the industry for their insights.
- Acceptance Rate: This metric compares the number of applications to those offered admission. While a lower acceptance rate often signals a competitive program, it also reflects demand, reputation, and capacity. Don’t be discouraged: fit matters more than raw percentages or numbers. Weigh all of your options, with this being just part of your criteria.
- Cost & Financial Aid: Veterinary education is a significant investment. Beyond published tuition rates (which differ for in-state vs. out-of-state students), it’s important to factor in additional fees, living expenses, and the school’s track record for scholarships, assistantships, or loan support. You can find these figures across different resources, but the most reliable source will come directly from the university’s financial aid office.
- Academic Rigor: A veterinary program should stretch your abilities without overwhelming them. Seek insights from alumni and current students to gauge how challenging a program may be, while also remaining manageable.
- Accreditation & Outcomes: Accreditation by the AVMA Council on Education ensures your degree meets national standards and qualifies you for licensure. One useful benchmark is each program’s NAVLE pass rate, which reflects both curriculum quality and student preparation. (Keep in mind: rates vary by each school, with class size and applicant pool being the biggest factors.)
- Research Opportunities: Some veterinary schools double as research hubs. Participating in faculty-led studies not only strengthens your scientific skills but can also open doors to residencies, PhD programs, or niche careers in veterinary medicine.
- Specialization Options: If you’re drawn to a specific field—such as equine medicine, zoological and wildlife care, small/large animal practice, or public health—look for schools with established tracks, electives, or faculty expertise in that specialty.
The List of the Best Veterinary Schools in the U.S.
With all of that being said, here is how we used these criteria to evaluate the top 10 veterinary schools in the U.S.
1. University of California, Davis
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #1 |
| Location | Davis, CA |
| Founded | 1948 |
| Admission Requirements | Average GPA of applicants: 3.4 Minimum of 180 veterinary experience hours Three professional recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian Completion of the required prerequisites A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited university Completion of Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) |
| Seats available | 155 |
| GRE required? | No |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.14% |
| Cost of Attendance (average, tuition only) | Resident – $39,157 Non-Resident – $51,402 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 2.9:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 92% |
| Research Strengths | Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Genetics, Comparative Medicine, Oncology |
| Popular Programs | Equine, Livestock, Aquatic, Poultry, Wildlife, Clinical Care, Public Health |
UC Davis has long held the crown as the top veterinary school in the U.S., and often, the world. Founded in 1948, its School of Veterinary Medicine is known for cutting-edge research, a massive teaching hospital, and broad training across companion animals, livestock, equine, poultry, wildlife, and even aquatic species. Admissions are highly competitive, but those who are accepted benefit from small class sizes, strong mentorship opportunities, and access to one of the most diverse patient caseloads in the nation. Research strengths include oncology, epidemiology, genetics, and food animal health, making UC Davis a powerhouse for students seeking both clinical and research careers.
2. Cornell University
*photo courtesy of cornell.edu
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #2 |
| Location | Ithaca, NY |
| Founded | 1865 |
| Admission Requirements | Average GPA of applicants: 3.8 Completed semester credits in these prerequisites No Bachelor’s degree is required No minimum amount of veterinary experience needed, but will be evaluated on quality and diversity of experience Three professional recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian |
| Seats available | 126 |
| GRE required? | No |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.7% |
| Annual Cost of Attendance (including estimated living expenses) | Resident – $78, 308 Non-Resident – $100,246 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 3:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 97% |
| Research Strengths | Oncology, Epidemiology, Genetics & Genomics, AI in Vet Medicine, Public and Wildlife Health |
| Popular Programs | Animal Genetics, Public Health, Infectious Diseases, Wildlife, Companion Animal Medicine, Equine Medicine |
Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1865, blends Ivy League prestige with hands-on clinical education. Students get real-world experience early on thanks to the university’s teaching hospitals and satellite practices. Cornell consistently ranks among the top U.S. vet schools, with research strengths in infectious disease, cancer biology, and wildlife medicine. This comes with a rigorous admission process, favoring high GPAs in science prerequisites and strong animal-care backgrounds. With an impressive student-faculty ratio and diverse specialty options, Cornell is a great fit for students aiming for advanced research, academia, or clinical practice.
3. Colorado State University
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #3 |
| Location | Fort Collins, CO |
| Founded | 1907 |
| Admission Requirements | Average GPA of applicants: 3.7 Completion of prerequisite coursework with a C- or better The application review committee takes a holistic approach to all applications, taking into consideration coursework, experience quality, and letters of recommendation |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats Available | 168 (starting in 2026) |
| Acceptance Rate | 4.7% |
| Cost of Attendance (average, including estimated living expenses) | Resident – $74,089 Non-Resident – $100,434 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 17:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 95% |
| Research Strengths | Translational Medicine, Oncology, Equine Orthopedics, Epidemiology |
| Popular Programs | Oncology, Equine, Exotics |
Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, founded in 1907, is a leader in research and innovation. The James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital is world-renowned, particularly for cancer treatment at the Animal Cancer Center. Additionally, CSU opened its C. Wayne McIlwraith Translational Medicine Institute in 2019, providing a place for innovative research and discovery into the intersection between veterinary medicine and human health.
CSU emphasizes a balance of clinical care, community service, and scientific discovery for students, with faculty-to-student ratios that encourage individualized support. Students can explore specialties in oncology, infectious disease, equine medicine, and translational research. CSU is especially appealing for those looking to combine a love of animals with groundbreaking medical science.
4. The Ohio State University
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #4 |
| Location | Columbus, OH |
| Founded | 1885 |
| Admission Requirements | Minimum GPA: 3.2 Average GPA of applicants: 3.4 Completion of prerequisite coursework with a 3.0 (B) average Has a two-phased application evaluation process: 20% objective (coursework, GPA, etc.) and 80% subjective (letters of recommendation, experience, community service) A total of three references (at least one must be a veterinarian) |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats Available | 165 |
| Acceptance Rate | 14.6% |
| Cost of Attendance (average, including estimated living expenses) | Resident – $68,708 Non-Resident – $80,866 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 4:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 84% |
| Research Strengths | Infectious Diseases, Neurology, Cardiology, Oncology |
| Popular Programs | Farm Services, Equine Medicine, Shelter Medicine, Cardiology, Neurology |
The Ohio State University’s (OSU) College of Veterinary Medicine, established in 1885, offers one of the largest veterinary programs in the U.S. Its teaching hospital handles a large caseload, giving students diverse clinical exposure. The program is known for excellence in neurology, cardiology, and shelter medicine. With strong ties to both agricultural and companion animal medicine, OSU provides students with a broad foundation for careers in practice, academia, or industry. Its size and scope make it attractive for students who want access to wide-ranging specialties and resources.
5. North Carolina State University (tie)
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #5 (tie) |
| Location | Raleigh, NC |
| Founded | 1981 |
| Admission Requirements | 3.0 GPA for residents of NC, 3.5 for non-residents Average GPA of applicants: 3.7 3 letters of recommendation, at least two must be from DVM or PhD scientists A minimum of 200 hours of clinical, medical, agribusiness, health science, or medical-related scientific research experience Completion of the required prerequisites |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats available | 100 |
| Acceptance Rate | 16.7% |
| Cost of Attendance (includes estimated living expenses) | Resident – $49,100 Non-Resident – $81, 113 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 4:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 97% |
| Research Strengths | Public Health, Immunology, Zoological Medicine |
| Popular Programs | Small Animal Medicine, Large Animal Medicine, Exotics, Wildlife Health, Public Health |
Established in 1981, North Carolina (NC) State’s College of Veterinary Medicine is one of the newer schools on this list, but has quickly risen into the top. Located in Raleigh, it offers a close-knit community with roughly 100 DVM admissions per year and a student-faculty ratio around 4:1. Students benefit from extensive clinical rotations at the on-campus teaching hospital and gain exposure to small animal, large animal, exotic, and wildlife medicine. NC State is especially known for its mentorship model, emphasis on hands-on learning, and strengths in public health and zoological medicine.
5. Texas A&M College Station (tie)
*photo courtesy of purdue.edu
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #5 (tie) |
| Location | College Station, TX |
| Founded | 1916 |
| Admission Requirements | Minimum GPA: 2.9 Average GPA of applicants: 3.7 Letters of Recommendation from at least one veterinarian Completed semester credits in required prerequisites |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats Available | 180 |
| Acceptance Rate | 18.8% |
| Cost of Attendance (average per semester, includes estimated living expenses) | Resident – $21,308 Non-resident – $29,559 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 23:6 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 99% |
| Research Strengths | Infectious Diseases, Genomics, Animal Behavior, Epidemiology, Equine Neurology |
| Popular Programs | Pathology, Large/Small Animal medicine, Rural Medicine, Research |
Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, founded in 1916, is one of the oldest and most respected programs in the country. The school is recognized for its strengths in pathology, neurology, equine medicine, and animal behavior. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, strong faculty mentorship, and research opportunities in emerging fields like infectious disease and genomics. With one of the largest veterinary programs in the U.S., Texas A&M attracts students from across the country who want both depth and breadth in their veterinary training.
5. University of Florida (tie)
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #5 (tie) |
| Location | Gainesville, FL |
| Founded | 1976 |
| Admission Requirements | Average GPA of applicants: 3.7 Applicants are evaluated in three main categories: Academic History and Experience, Veterinary Experience, and Overall Professionalism and Readiness for Matriculation No minimum veterinary experience required, however hours should reflect a range of quality and diversity of responsibilities Bachelor’s degree or higher Three Letters of Recommendation, at least one from a veterinarian |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats Available | 150 |
| Acceptance Rate | 13.7% |
| Cost of Attendance (includes estimated living expenses) | Resident – $53,256 Non-Resident – $69,966 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 16:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 98% |
| Research Strengths | Oncology, Immunology, Epidemiology, Computational Biology, Pathology |
| Popular Programs | Small Animal Surgery, Aquatics, Pathology, Equine, Clinical Sciences, Wildlife, One Health |
The University of Florida (UF) College of Veterinary Medicine, established in 1976, blends strong clinical training with public health and research opportunities. Its veterinary hospitals see more than 44,000 cases annually, giving students extensive exposure to real-world medicine. Popular areas of study include small animal surgery, pathology, and aquatic animal health. The program is also known for its One Health initiatives, connecting animal medicine with human and environmental health. UF is a top choice for students seeking broad clinical experience with opportunities in public service and global health.
5. University of Pennsylvania (tie)
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #5 (tie) |
| Location | Philadelphia, PA |
| Founded | 1884 |
| Admission Requirements | No minimum GPA required Average GPA of applicants: 3.6 Strong preference given to applicants with over 600 hours of meaningful veterinary experience Three professional recommendations with at least one from a veterinarian A personal essay |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats Available | 130 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.2% |
| Cost of Attendance (includes estimated living expenses) | Resident – $95,870 Non-Resident – $105,870 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 97% |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 8:1 |
| Research Strengths | Regenerative Medicine, Translational Medicine, Genomics |
| Popular Programs | Equine Medicine, Large Animal Surgery |
Penn Vet, founded in 1884, is one of the oldest veterinary schools in the U.S. and continues to lead in both education and research. The program is split between two campuses: Philadelphia for small animal studies and New Bolton Center for large animal and equine specialties. Research strengths include regenerative medicine, genomics, and large animal surgery. The program’s competitive admissions process seeks applicants with strong science foundations and diverse animal experience. Students benefit from Penn’s Ivy League resources, a global alumni network, and world-class faculty.
One unique thing to note about this program is that instead of offering a DVM, UPenn offers a VMD, or Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris. While these appear to be different (however slight), the curriculum is the same across other DVM programs. Meaning, if you earn a VMD at UPenn, you have earned a DVM and can practice veterinary medicine the same as graduates of other programs.
5. University of Wisconsin – Madison (tie)
*photo courtesy of thoughtco.com
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #5 (tie) |
| Location | Madison, WI |
| Founded | 1983 |
| Admission Requirements | Minimum 2.0 GPA Average GPA of applicants: 3.6 Bachelor’s degree Academic performance accounts for 60% of the selection criteria, in addition to experience and letters of recommendation |
| GRE required? | Yes |
| Seats Available | 100 |
| Acceptance Rate | 10.5% |
| Cost of Attendance (tuition only) | Resident – $36,080 Non-Resident – $58,746 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 3.5:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 96% |
| Research Strengths | Immunology, Genetics, Pharmacology, Dairy Medicine, Wildlife Health, Infectious Diseases |
| Popular Programs | Large Animal Medicine, Public Health, Companion Animals, Dairy Medicine |
The UW–Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1983, has carved out a reputation for excellence in research and clinical care. With annual admissions of around 100 students and a student-faculty ratio of roughly 3.5:1, the program offers an intimate and supportive environment. Research strengths include immunology, genetics, and pharmacology, and the school’s teaching hospital provides training across companion animals, equine, and food animals. Students are drawn to Madison not only for the program’s national ranking but also for the city’s vibrant academic and cultural environment.
10. University of Georgia
| Feature | Details |
| Rank | #10 |
| Location | Athens, GA |
| Founded | 1946 |
| Admission Requirements | Minimum GPA: 3.0 Average GPA of applicants: 3.7 Minimum of 250 hours of diverse veterinary experience |
| GRE required? | No |
| Seats Available | 114 |
| Acceptance Rate | 9.22% |
| Cost of Attendance (average, tuition only) | Resident – $25,537 Non-Resident – $55,199 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 3:1 |
| NAVLE pass rate | 93% |
| Research Strengths | Infectious Disease, Immunology, Pathology, Toxicology, Wildlife, Poultry, Translational Medicine, Public Health, |
| Popular Programs | Food Animal, Equine, Zoology, Wildlife, Small Animal, Shelter Medicine |
Founded in 1946, the University of Georgia’s (UGA) College of Veterinary Medicine has become a leader in infectious disease research and poultry medicine. Located in Athens, UGA combines small-town charm with major research facilities, including specialized diagnostic and research labs. Students can pursue tracks in small animal, equine, food animal, or mixed practice while engaging in research that tackles real-world problems like zoonotic disease. With its strengths in both clinical training and research, UGA appeals to students looking for a balance of practical experience and scientific innovation.
All systems go!
Choosing the right veterinary school for you is a huge step, but it’s only the beginning. As you advance in your career, you’ll be making one decision after another. How do you know what will be the right program for you? What if I’m wrong?
Breathe. It’s going to be okay. We promise. Let this chapter of your life be a challenge, but most importantly: let it be fun! The experiences you’ll gain and the connections you make along the way will stick with you throughout your career. So be sure to make the most of it! You’ve got this.
Did you know?
DaySmart Vet, powered by Vetter, works with various vet schools worldwide. Chances are pretty good that you may encounter us at some point in your career. No matter if we meet you in vet school or when you open your own practice, we’ll be here for you every step of the way. We’ve got you covered.
Grow with us.
Request a demo for DaySmart Vet today.
Vet School Rankings FAQ
Navigating vet school admissions, comparing top-rated vet schools, and understanding NAVLE pass rates can feel overwhelming for prospective students and mentors alike. This FAQ section breaks down the essential information about the top veterinary schools in the U.S., helping you understand what makes a program competitive, how schools rank nationally, and which factors can influence your success as you pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
What is the #1 veterinary school in the U.S.?
The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine consistently ranks among the top-rated vet schools in the country and is widely considered the #1 choice for prospective students. Its strong combination of clinical training, research opportunities, and diverse specialty programs makes it a standout in vet school rankings.
What is the toughest vet school to get into?
Admissions to vet schools are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often ranging from 10–15%. While schools like UC Davis, Cornell, and Penn Vet are known for their selective admissions, each program offers unique challenges and requirements that make every vet school admissions process rigorous.
What vet school has the highest pass rate on the NAVLE exam?
Based on current data, Texas A&M holds the highest NAVLE pass rate at 99%. Prospective students and mentors often use NAVLE pass rates as an indicator of a school’s academic rigor and preparation for professional licensure.
What GPA do I need to get into vet school?
GPA requirements vary by program. Most top-rated vet schools recommend a minimum GPA of 3.0, while competitive applicants often have an average GPA of 3.4 or higher. Be sure to consider GPA alongside other vet school admissions criteria, including clinical experience, letters of recommendation, and prerequisite coursework.