Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary medicine is the science or practice of the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease for animals. Studying for a medical degree is hard work but rewarding and can lead to a number of career opportunities not just becoming a veterinarian. You will need to take a 3 A levels and achieve A*AA - AAB depending on the universities you apply to. Veterinary medicine is very competitive and there are only 11 veterinary schools in the UK.

 

A levels

Compulsory - Biology, Chemistry

Third A level - Any other facilitating A level from the following list:

  • English Literature

  • Geography

  • History

  • Maths and Further Maths

  • Modern and Classical Languages

  • Physics

Some universities will also consider Psychology and Religious Studies.

 

GCSE requirements

Most veterinary schools will require you to achieve 6 or above in Maths, English Language and Science subjects at GCSE. However, most successful applicants have 7-9 grades in these subjects so you should aim for this level. Check the requirements carefully.

 

Enrichment Options

Either of our enrichment options will work well for you in supporting a medical application.

Core Maths - if you are not taking A level Maths, then studying Core Maths will keep your maths skills up and support your Biology/Chemistry  and other A levels.

EPQ - allows you to complete a research project in an area of animal wealth fare that interests you. It is always good to refer to this in your personal statement as it is a good talking point at an interview.

 

Admissions Tests

The only university that requires an admissions test is the University of Cambridge. 

 

Work Experience

Work experience is essential for veterinary schools, with some universities placing more emphasis on certain aspects of work experience than others. Online courses and involvement in local events is also important. At J6 we have a number of links to local vets, farms and can assist you in getting work placements.

 

How can J6 help you?

At the J6 we can provide individual and bespoke support so you can achieve your very best in your A levels and your dream to have a career as a veterinarian. Our support includes:

  • Support for admissions test if applying to the University of Cambridge

  • Links to several university vet schools through ex-J6 students

  • Discussions with present and former students who have applied to study veterinary science

  • Assistance with the applications process

  • One week of dedicated work experience in year 12

  • Other opportunities to gain work experience through volunteering, online courses etc

  • Interview with an ex-J6 student who is a qualified veterinarian

  • Mentoring to ensure you achieve the grades at A level

  • Mentoring from a J6 student who is currently studying veterinary medicine at university