Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine
The Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVetMed) programme offers world-leading scientific and clinical training in veterinary medicine. This exciting course builds on our extensive veterinary history, and takes a fresh approach in bringing together technological change, clinical and scientific progress, and stimulating teaching and learning methods.
You will gain a thorough understanding of the science underpinning veterinary practice and research, and develop fundamental problem solving, communication and team-working skills. In our busy RVC hospitals and collaborative practices, you will gain the broadest and best possible practical experience.
This comprehensive programme will help you acquire an understanding of the basic biological principles of normal body function and disease, and the ability to distinguish the pathological from the normal, to prevent disease and safely manage the processes of animal production. You will also explore opportunities to further veterinary knowledge through research, and develop the expertise to diagnose and treat disease and alleviate suffering along with the professional skills you need to work and communicate effectively in practice.
In the first two years, you will primarily be based at the Camden Campus studying basic veterinary sciences, acquiring introductory skills in handling and examining horses, farm animals and companion animals as well as developing your communication and team working skills. In your third, fourth and fifth year you will mainly be based at our Hawkshead Campus where you will acquire knowledge and practical skills in clinical science necessary for you to participate fully in clinical practice at the RVC, collaborative practices, and in private veterinary practice.
The Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine course is delivered across both of our campuses. You will spend the first two years primarily based at our Camden Campus, before being based at the Hawkshead Campus in the latter years.
Adam Robbins, Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine
I love that within the spiral curriculum you revisit strands regularly so you are constantly adding to your knowledge the further you get along the course. I also enjoy the number of opportunities which are open to you as an RVC student. Being a student here teaches you so much more than how to be a vet and lets you explore and get involved with whatever makes you happy.
There are so many sports and societies to join which really is what gives RVC the community feel that it has. I joined the RVC Boat Club when I joined the university (having never even thought about rowing before) and it really has been what has made my first 3 years here so great.
Sarah Lewis, Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine
I knew upon arrival that RVC was the place for me. I was honoured to have had the chance to attend the Pre-Vet Summer School and would recommend every student interested in veterinary medicine to attend.
This past year I worked the Pre-Vet Summer School as a student ambassador and had the unique opportunity to experience the program from a different perspective. I am proud of what I have accomplished at the RVC and I owe it to the very first day I arrived on campus for the Pre-Vet Summer School program.
Aidan Coe, Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine
It was brilliant to have achieved the award for runner-up Farm Vet of the Future, as it is great to have acknowledgement in the veterinary community that my ideas on education are valued, and that vets in practice are interested in my work with Dr Nicola Blackie on thermal imaging – something that I hope to continue after graduating.
After graduation, I am going into a purely farm job on the Suffolk/Norfolk border, at Three Rivers and Chapelfield Farm Vets, and the work that I had put in previously in order to be able to apply for the award, should help in this job. One of the tasks I will be doing at the practice, is talking to schools and helping to educate the children, and hopefully, engaging the children about animal welfare. As well as this I should have access to the farms needed to continue my work with Dr Nicola Blackie. The award is very nice recognition of my passion for farm vetting and I hope it stands me in good stead for the rest of my career..
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Our BVetMed programme is a strand-based course that follows a ‘spiral’ curriculum. This means that key concepts are presented repeatedly to you as you progress through the course, at deepening levels of complexity and in different contexts.
The progression of knowledge and understanding from preclinical basic concepts to clinical knowledge and reasoning skills is achieved by revisits to each strand at different stages of the course.
For example, when learning about the kidney, you will learn basic anatomy and physiology during the preclinical phase of the course and then learn about the common diseases of the kidney and how they are diagnosed and treated during the clinical phase. This is then enriched by working with animal patients presented with kidney disease in our first opinion and referral hospitals, or other practices, during clinical rotations and extra-mural rotations.
In Year 4 and 5 of the course, you will undertake intramural clinical rotations. These rotations will focus on:
- Observation, discussion and practical experience as a member of the clinical team in the College’s hospitals, and in clinical enterprises in which the College is a collaborating partner
- Placements in veterinary practices
- Attendance at lectures, seminars and workshops
- Completion of a major research project
The curriculum is currently undergoing review; these pages will be updated as more information becomes available. Information provided is for a general indication based on current course.
The majority of teaching during the fourth and fifth years of the programme is in the form of clinical rotations, where you will work in small groups in a variety of clinical environments. The majority of teaching during the fourth and fifth years of the programme is in the form of clinical rotations, where you will work in small groups in a variety of clinical environments. AHEMS is undertaken during the first two years (pre-clinical years) of the programme. AHEMS placements are designed to help you consolidate your learning about animal husbandry, develop animal handling skills, and learn about animal industries. You must complete 10 weeks of AHEMS before entry to Year 3 of the course. ClinEMS is the time dedicated to gaining practical clinical experience in the latter years of your veterinary medicine programme to support your learning and clinical experience gained in the College’s animal hospitals. ClinEMS will allow you to gain experience in a variety of different clinical and other veterinary-related organisations, where you will consolidate your learning about diagnosis and management of animal diseases, enhance your practical clinical skills, and acquire greater understanding of how veterinary organisations operate. You will undertake ClinEMS placements in your third, fourth and fifth years of the BVetMed programme, totalling 20 weeks of placements.
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Animal Husbandry Extra-Mural Studies (AHEMS)
Clinical Extra-Mural Studies (ClinEMS)
Learning
This course is delivered through whole-class lectures, small group tutorials, group work in directed learning classes, computer-assisted learning, demonstrations, practical work in laboratory and dissection classes, practical classes utilising live animals, directed and self-directed reading, directed and self-directed practice in the Clinical Skills Centre, self-evaluation, animal husbandry placements, placements in veterinary practices, and production of project reports.
Self-directed learning
Outside of your timetabled lectures and practical sessions, you are expected to undertake self-directed learning. Typically, this involves reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for examinations.
Teaching staff
The RVC has three outstanding academic and clinical departments. Lecturers in each department are not only world-class researchers and clinicians who are passionate about their field; they are highly qualified teaching professionals. All RVC students are assured teaching of the highest standard.
Assessment and feedback
The curriculum is currently undergoing review; these pages will be updated as more information becomes available. Information provided is for a general indication based on current course.
In the final year of your course, your assessment will comprise:
- Assessment of knowledge, problem solving and professional behaviour on clinical rotations
- Examination of practical skills through OSCEs (objective structure clinical examinations)
- Completion of a 4000-word research project
- Written examination testing clinical and professional decision making
You should fulfill our requirements in each of the following areas to be considered for interview:
Academic qualifications
The standard academic requirements for entry to the BVetMed programme are outlined below.
A Levels
AAA in three A Level subjects:
- Biology at grade A
- Chemistry at grade A
- A third subject of your choice*
We also require a 'pass' in the science practical for each subject, where taking the English curriculum.
Contextual Offers
Offers of ABB (with an A in Biology or Chemistry) will be made to those meeting certain Widening Participation (WP) criteria. No separate application is required but care leavers should submit proof from the relevant local authority once they have applied.
For further information on our policy on reformed UK qualifications, please click here.
*The third A Level subject should not overlap with Biology or Chemistry, and cannot be General Studies.
We support the opportunity to take additional subjects at AS Level, but do not prescribe or prefer any particular subject choices or combinations.
- A* grades are not required and predictions for A* will not give advantage at selection or offer stage over applicants predicted A.
- There is no third subject which is preferred by selectors or gives any special advantage in the selection process. Science and non-science subjects are treated equally for the third subject.
- Restrictions apply to re-sits to all qualifications - see ’FAQ' tab.
See additional GCSE requirements below.
Welsh, Scottish and Irish Applicants
Welsh Baccalaureate
Applicants who achieve the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales qualification with grade A will be accepted with two A Levels:
- Biology at grade A
- Chemistry at grade A
Please also see notes under the 'A Levels' tab above.
Contextual Offers
Offers of ABB (with an A in Biology or Chemistry) will be made to those meeting certain Widening Participation (WP) criteria. No separate application is required but care leavers should submit proof from the relevant local authority once they have applied.
Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers
Advanced Highers at grades AA in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
In addition to 5 Highers at AAAAB grades including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
and at least National 5* grade B in:
- English
- Mathematics
* If you have bypassed one or more of these subjects at National 5, you will need this subject/grade at Highers level.
Contextual Offers
Offers of AB in Biology and Chemistry will be made to those meeting certain Widening Participation (WP) criteria. No separate application is required but care leavers should submit proof from the relevant local authority once they have applied.
Irish Leaving Certificate
H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H2 including Biology and Chemistry. H1 required in one of these sciences.
Minimum O3 is required in:
- English
- Mathematics
International Baccalaureate
666 at Higher Level including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- A third subject of your choice
Our standard offer is based on specific subject-grade requirements, rather than a total points score.
There is no third subject which is preferred or gives any special advantage in the selection process.
Contextual Offers
Offers of 655 (with a 6 in Biology or Chemistry) will be made to those meeting certain Widening Participation (WP) criteria. No separate application is required but care leavers should submit proof from the relevant local authority once they have applied.
See additional GCSE requirements below.
Where candidates have not taken GCSEs or an equivalent qualification prior to the IB Diploma, they will need a minimum of grade 5 in:
- EITHER MYP Mathematics (standard or extended) OR SL Mathematics Analysis and approaches OR SL Mathematics Applications and interpretation.
- SL English A (or grade 6 in English B)
Diplomas and Further Certificates (including Access and L3 Extended Diploma)
Access to HE Diploma (England and Wales)
It is expected that applicants undertaking the Access to HE Diploma will normally be returning to education after a period of at least three years absence. If have extenuating circumstances which mean you do not fulfil this please contact the Admissions team on admissions@rvc.ac.uk before you submit your application.
Diplomas must be Science-based and include a minimum of 15 Level 3 credits in Biology at Distinction and 15 Level 3 credits in Chemistry at Distinction. You must achieve at least Merit in all other graded Level 3 credits.
See the Access to Higher Education website to search for possible courses in your area.
SWAP Access to Medical Studies(Scotland)
You must complete the “SWAP Access to Medical Studies” course and achieve a Pass overall. You must achieve AAA in the three graded components of the course – Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics with at least 80% in each subject.
Birkbeck College's CertHE in Life Sciences for Subjects Allied to Medicine
Distinctions must be achieved in the Chemistry and Biology modules.
See the Birkbeck website for further details.
Level 3 Extended Diploma
Applied Generals
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science / Applied Science (Biomedical Science): D*D*D* overall with Distinctions in:
- Principles and Applications of Science I (90)
- Principles and Applications of Science II (120)
- Science Investigation Skills or Contemporary Issues in Science (120)
- Two of: Applications of Organic Chemistry; Applications of Inorganic Chemistry; Practical Chemical Analysis (120)
In addition:
For Applied Science: at least three units from Group A must be taken with Distinctions achieved.
For Applied Science (Biomedical Science): at least four units from Group A must be taken with Distinctions achieved in three of them.
Tech Levels
City & Guilds Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Animal Management (Science*): D*D*D* overall with Distinctions in:
- Biological Systems of Animals
- Synoptic Assessment (1)
- Synoptic Assessment (2)
- Theory Exam (2)
- Undertake Investigative Project in the Land-Based Industries
*Please ensure that you are enrolled on the correct pathway - you must be on the Science pathway and taking the mandatory Science pathway modules listed in this document:
https://www.cityandguilds.com/-/media/productdocuments/land_based_services/animal_management/0172/0172_level_3/animal_management/centre-documents/0172-33-l3-adv-tech-ext-dip-in-animal-management-qhb-1080-v4,-d-,11-september-2024-pdf.ashx
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Animal Management (1080)**: D*D*D* overall with Distinctions in:
- Animal Biology (120)
- Animal Breeding and Genetics (120)
- Animal Welfare and Ethics (120)
- Practical Skills in Animal Science (60)
- Animal Metabolism (60)
- Advanced Animal Nutrition (60)
- Investigative Research Project (60)
**Previously, only the Science pathway was accepted. In light of this no longer being available, please note the unit requirements carefully as not all colleges deliver what were previously mandatory units.
Level 3 Extended Diploma (unreformed syllabus)
Pearson Applied Science (2010 syllabus) QCF
D*D*D* overall required, including Distinctions in all the following units:
- Genetics and Genetic Engineering
- Physiology of Human Body Systems AND/OR Physiology of Human Regulation and Reproduction
- Biochemistry and Biochemical Techniques AND/OR Chemistry for Biology Technicians
- Biomedical Science Techniques AND/OR Chemical Laboratory Techniques
- Using Statistics in Science AND/OR Informatics in Science
Pearson Animal Management (2010 syllabus) QCF
D*D*D* overall required, including Distinctions in all the following units:
- Understand the Principles of Animal Nutrition
- Understand the Principles and Carry Out the Practice of Biochemistry and Microbiology
- Understand the Principles of Inheritance and Genetic Manipulation
- Fundamentals of Science
- Chemistry for Biology Technicians OR Understand the Principles of Chemistry for Biological and Medical Science
Cambridge Pre-U
Distinctions (D3 or higher) in three Principal Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- A third subject of your choice
There is no third subject which is preferred by selectors or gives any special advantage in the selection process. Science and non-science subjects are treated equally for the third subject.
Applications are welcome from those who meet our science requirements and are taking a combination of A Levels and the Cambridge Pre-U. Offers will be made on an individual basis, depending on the combinations.
T-Levels
We have considered the programme specifications and assessment materials for the T-level subjects currently available and these do not provide suitable preparation the degrees that we offer at the RVC. We are therefore currently unable to accept T-levels as entry qualifications to any of our courses.
As further T Level subjects are introduced the specifications will be reviewed and, if they are suitable for entry to the RVC, they will be added to the lists of acceptable qualifications.
GCSE (only in addition to other qualifications)
At least five GCSEs at grade 7 (A) including:
- 7-7 in Combined Science/AA in Science (Double Award) or Biology and Chemistry or Science and Additional Science.
with at least a grade 6 (B) in:
- English Language
- Mathematics
For further information on our policy on reformed UK qualifications, please click here.
Welsh applicants
Please note, GCSE Mathematics-Numeracy will not be accepted instead of GCSE Mathematics but is welcomed alongside it, and as part of the Welsh Baccalaureate.
International and EU Applicants
For advice on the acceptability of your qualifications please send details, referring to each of the required subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Maths, and English) to admissions@rvc.ac.uk
For more information useful to international applicants, please go to the International students section.
North America
College students attending a US or Canadian university must apply through the VMCAS application system and will be considered for both the four-year Graduate Accelerated BVetMed and the five-year BVetMed programme. For more information see here. Please note that different deadlines apply to the VMCAS system.
High school students may only apply to the five-year BVetMed programme through UCAS, with the entry requirements as follows:
USA
High school graduation:
We will accept any of the following combinations:
High School Diploma:
- Graduate High School with at least three full-year Advanced Placement examinations at grade 555 including Biology and Chemistry. Please note you must be taking official AP exams, not just the classes.
ACT Test:
We will accept either of the following combinations:
- ACT score of 28 in English and Maths plus three full-year Advanced Placement examinations at grade 555 including Biology and Chemistry. Please note you must be taking official AP exams, not just the classes.
- ACT score of 28 in English and Maths plus three IB Higher Level certificates at Grade 6 including Biology and Chemistry.
SAT Test:
- SAT score of 630 in each of 'Evidence-Based Reading and Writing' and 'Math', plus three full-year Advanced Placement examinations at grade 555 including Biology and Chemistry. Please note you must be taking official AP exams, not just the classes.
- SAT score of 630 in each of 'Evidence-Based Reading and Writing' and 'Math', plus three IB Higher Level certificates at Grade 6 including Biology and Chemistry.
The RVC's institution code for College Board to be used when sending your results is 7970.
The RVC's College Code to be used when sending your ACT results is 8180
Canada
As there are regional differences, please contact Admissions for province-specific requirements. British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario are shown below as a guide:
British Columbia
Pass the British Columbia Certificate of Graduation with five academic grade 12 courses including Biology/Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry. A 85% average is required across grade 12 courses, with 85% in Biology/Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry. A minimum of 73% is required in grade 11 or grade 12 English and Mathematics (e.g. Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Functions, Advanced Functions). Grade 11 Biology or Life Sciences will normally be expected.
Alberta
Pass the Alberta High School Diploma with five academic grade 12 courses including Biology/Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry. A 85% average is required across grade 12 courses, with 85% in Biology/Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry. A minimum of 73% is required in grade 11 or grade 12 English and Mathematics (e.g. Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Functions, Advanced Functions). Grade 11 Biology or Life Sciences will normally be expected.
Ontario
Pass the Ontario Secondary School Diploma with six grade 12 'U' courses including Biology and Chemistry. A 85% average is required across grade 12 courses, with 85% in Biology and Chemistry. A minimum of 73% is required in grade 11 or grade 12 English and Mathematics (e.g. Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Functions, Advanced Functions).
Québec
Pass the Diplôme d’Etudes Collègiales with five academic grade 12 courses including Biology/Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry. An 85% average is required across grade 12 courses, with 85% in Biology/Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry. A minimum of 73% is required in grade 11 or grade 12 English and Mathematics (e.g. Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Functions, Advanced Functions). Grade 11 Biology or Life Sciences will normally be expected.
Caribbean
Obtain Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) unit 2 grades of I, I, I (one, one, one) in Biology, Chemistry and a third subject, in addition to Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) grade II (two) in English A, Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry.
Europe
Where an English grade is not specified, applicants will need to meet one of our accepted English Language qualifications. Where not specified, applicants must also demonstrate they have studied Mathematics to the equivalent standard of GCSE grade B.
European Baccalaureate
Pass the Baccalaureate with 85% overall, and 8.5 in elective Biology and Chemistry. 7.5 required in Maths. 7 in L1 English is an accepted English language requirement.
Austria
Achieve the Reifeprüfung/Matura from Realgymnasium with Mit ausgezeichnetem Erfolg bestanden and grade 1 in Biology, Chemistry and English. Grade 3 required in Maths.
Belgium
Achieve the Diploma van secundair onderwijs/Certificat d'enseignement secondaire supérieur (CESS) with 80% (8/10; 16/20) overall. 85% (9/10; 17/20) required in Biology and Chemistry. 65% (7/10; 13/20) required in Maths.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Obtain the Diploma o završenoj srednjoj školi/Diploma o položenom maturskom ispitu having achieved 554 in the Matura exams with 5 in Biology and Chemistry, and at least grade 3 in Maths compulsory subject.
Czech Republic
Achieve the Vysvědčení o maturitní zkoušce having passed the state maturita exams with 1,1,2,2 including 1 (Výborný) in Biology and Chemistry. Competency should also be demonstrated in Maths (if not included in the maturita).
Denmark
Pass the Bevis for Studentereksamen with grade 10 in four Level A subjects including Biology and Chemistry. Maths is required at minimum Level B grade 7 or Level A grade 7. English required at Level B grade 10 or Level A grade 7.
Finland
Pass the Ylioppilastutkinto/Studentexamen with Eximia cum laude approbatur in three subjects including Biology and Chemistry, and at least Magna cum laude approbatur in a fourth subject. A minimum of Cum laude approbatur is required in Maths if not part of the four subjects above.
France
Pass the Baccalauréat général with 14 overall. 14 required in Earth & Life Sciences and Physics-Chemistry, both of which need to be one's enseignements de spécialité and taken through to terminale. Mathematics needs to be sat in the penultimate year, and grade 12 achieved. [OIB/BFI Anglais: if 14 is achieved in English, no further English language qualification is required.]
Germany
Pass the Abitur with 1.4 overall. 13 required in Biology and Chemistry, both as Kurse mit erhöhtem Anforderungsniveau/Leistungskurse. Applicants should demonstrate successful completion of grade 10 having achieved at least 3 in Maths.
Iceland
Pass the Stúdentspróf (natural science specialisation) with 9 in Biology, Chemistry and English. 7 is required in Maths.
Italy
Pass the Diploma di Esame di Stato from a Liceo Scientifico with 95 overall and individual grades of 10 in Science and 8 in Maths.
Luxembourg
Pass the Diplôme de fin d'études secondaires (Section C) with mention tres bien overall and 52 in Biology and Chemistry. 40 required in Maths.
Macedonia
Pass the Matura with an average of 4.5 and at least 4.9 in Biology and Chemistry. Strong competency should be shown in Maths and Natural Science.
Malta
Pass the University of Malta Matriculation Certificate with AA at Advanced Level in Biology and Chemistry and AAA in three Intermediate Level subjects. If not included as Intermediate subjects, grade 3 must be achieved in Maths as part of the Secondary Education Certificate. Alternatively, IGCSE/O Levels in Maths grade B is accepted. English may be accepted if taken as a first language; please contact admissions.
Monaco
Pass the Baccalauréat (S stream required) with 14 overall and 14 in both Year 12 (première) and Year 13 (terminale) Biology and Physics-Chemistry. 12 in Maths required. [OIB Anglais: English 14]
Montenegro
Achieve the Diploma o položenom maturskom ispitu having achieved the following in the Matura: 5 in Biology and Chemistry, 4 in Maths.
Netherlands
Pass the VWO (Natuur profiel) with 8 overall with 8 in Biology and Chemistry. 7 is required in Maths and 9 is required in English.
North Macedonia
Pass the Matura with 5 in Biology, Chemistry and the elective exam. Competency must also be demonstrated in Maths.
Norway
Pass the Vitnemål for Videregående Opplæring/Skole (Natural sciences and mathematics stream) 5 overall. Biology and Chemistry must be taken as Optional Programme Subjects in both course 1 and 2 (e.g. Chemistry 1 and Chemistry 2) and grade 5 must be achieved in both. English at grade 4 and Maths at grade 3 are also required.
Poland
Achieve the Świadectwo Dojrzałości (Matura) with 85% in Advanced Level Biology and Chemistry and one further subject, 75% in Standard Maths.
Portugal
Pass the Diploma Nível Secundário de Educação with 18 overall and 18 in Year 12 Biology and Year 12 Physics-Chemistry. You must also achieve 15 in Y12 Maths or 16 in Y11 Maths.
Serbia
Achieve the Diploma o položenom završnom ispitu having achieved the following in the Matura: 5 in Biology and Chemistry, 4 in Maths.
Slovakia
Pass the Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške with 1,1,2,2 including 1 in Biology and Chemistry. Competency should be demonstrated in Gymnazium-level Maths.
Slovenia
Pass the Maturitetno spričevalo (Matura) with 25 overall, and 5 in Biology and Chemistry. 4 required in Maths.
Spain
Pass the Bachillerato with 8.5 overall with 9 in Biology/Biology-Geology and Chemistry/Physics-Chemistry. You must also achieve 7 in Maths and Physics if Physics-Chemistry not taken.
Sweden
Pass the Slutbetyg från Gymnasieskolan with 2500 credits taken and an overall score of 19.0. Grade A must be achieved in Biology and Chemistry and C in Maths and English.
Switzerland
Obtain the Federal Maturity Certificate or Federally Recognised Cantonal Maturity Certificate with grade 5 in 'Biology and Chemistry' (Schwerpunktfach/Option Spécifique), and 4 in Maths.
Asia
Armenia
Pass the Araratian Baccalaureate with AAA in three Extended subjects, including Biology and Chemistry . Maths must be passed at grade 8 or above at Certificate of Secondary General Education level.
Hong Kong
Pass the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) with grades 555 in Biology, Chemistry and one other elective subject, plus grade 4 in Maths and grade 5 in English core subjects. We will consider Maths as a third elective subject provided both the compulsory and the extended modules are taken with grades 5* (compulsory section) and 5 (extended section).
Malaysia
Obtain the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades AAA in three Principal level passes including Biology and Chemistry. In addition, grade 4/B is required in the SPM in Maths and 5/A in Biology and Chemistry. Grade B in English (first language) at either O Level (1119), or as part of the STPM is accepted as meeting our English Language requirements
OR
Obtain the Matrikulasi (Matriculation Certificate) with a cGPA of 3.67 and grades A- or GPA of 3.67 in Biology and Chemistry. In addition, grade 4/B is required in the SPM in Maths and 5/A in Biology and Chemistry. Grade B in English (first language) at either O Level (1119), or as part of the STPM is accepted as meeting our English Language requirements
Singapore
Obtain Singapore GCE A Level grades AAA at H2 level including grade A in Biology and Chemistry.*
OR
Singapore Integrated Programme / GCE A levels: AAA at H2 level including grade A in Biology and Chemistry*
OR
Pass the Polytechnic Diploma in Veterinary Bioscience, Veterinary Technology, Biomedical Science or Biotechnology with an overall GPA of 3.0 and with grade B in all Biology and Chemistry modules.
OR
Pass the NUS High School Diploma: NUS High School Diploma with a CAP score of 4.0. Biology and Chemistry must be studied during the Specialization Years and achieve a CAP score of 4.0 in these subjects. English and Maths with a CAP score of 3.5 is required.
*Offers may be subject to IELTS and GCSE equivalency in relevant subjects.
Africa & Middle East
Tanzania
Pass the ACSEE (natural sciences stream) with AAB+ in one of the following principal subject combinations: PCB, CBG, CBA or CBN. Division I must be achieved in the CSEE including B in Basic Mathematics; English Language; Biology; and Chemistry.
Uganda
Pass the UACE with AAA at principal level including Biology and Chemistry. Pass the UCE with Division One, including Distinctions in Biology and Chemistry, and at least grade 4 (Credit) in English Language and Maths.
Oceania
All references to English below are to first-language English only. If you are studying English as a second language, please see our accepted English Language qualifications.
Australia
Excluding Queensland, an ATAR score of 90 is required. Please see below for state-specific subject/grade requirements:
New South Wales
Pass the Higher School Certificate (HSC) with the following 2-unit Category-A Board Developed Courses: Biology, Chemistry and one other at band 5; English and Maths must be achieved to at least band 3.
Queensland
Pass the QCE including the following core subjects: Biology, Chemistry and one other at HA; English, Maths must be achieved to at least SA. Your OP score should be in bands 1-4.
South Australia
Pass the SACE with the following at Stage 2: 20 credits of Biology and Chemistry at grade A. To at least Stage 1: 20 credits of English and Maths at grade B.
Victoria
Pass the VCE with the following: 3/4 Biology and Chemistry at grade A (average), English and Maths at grade C+ (average).
Western Australia
Pass the WACE with the following: Year 12 Biology and Chemistry at grade A. Year 11 English and Maths at grade B.
New Zealand
Obtain the University Entrance Certificate with National Certificate in Educational Achievement Level 3 with Excellence overall including in Biology and Chemistry. Minimum of NCEA Level 2 Merit grades required in English and Maths.
Some countries' education systems are not equivalent to A Levels in the UK. The programme(s) below are designed to give you that equivalent level of study so you can apply for our programmes:
University of London Foundation programmes for International Students (UK-based)
UCL University Preparatory Certificate for Science & Engineering (UPCSE) for International Students
You must take Biology and Chemistry as Core Units and achieve 70% in both subjects, and 70% overall for the Certificate.
View website for more information on the programme.
These requirements assume that you have met the standard entry requirements for UPCSE: if you have entered that course with special circumstances or through a different route, please see advice for International and EU applicants, above.
Is your country's qualification missing? It might be because it's not equivalent to GCE A Levels. For advice on the eligibility of other qualifications, please contact Admissions at admissions@rvc.ac.uk. Please note, we typically do not accept Foundation years unless they appear above.
Email: admissions@rvc.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7468 5147
Graduate Applicants
Applications will not be considered from students currently on a degree programme unless they are in their final year.
Graduates holding related degrees
If you have a Bachelor's (Hons) degree in a relevant biological sciences discipline, equivalent to a 2:2, or a Bachelor's without honours at 2:1 or above (e.g. 3-year from Australia, South Africa), you can be considered for the standard BVetMed programme (D100). Applicants will need to be prepared to provide secondary school level transcripts/certificates as these may be used in conjunction with their degree to assess an applicant's viability.
If you have a Bachelor's (Hons) degree in a relevant biological sciences discipline, equivalent to a 2:1, you should apply directly to our Graduate Accelerated BVetMed (D102) programme. You are welcome to apply to the standard BVetMed (D100) instead/as well but must be prepared to fund, and study on, the 5-year programme; no transfer to D102 is available post-application.
If you are currently studying for a Masters degree we will only consider your application for deferred entry, as receipt of the Masters results and proof of the completion of the degree occurs too late to enrol on a new course in the same calendar year as the Masters degree is completed.
Graduates holding non-related degrees
Applicants with a degree from a non-related discipline should apply to the standard BVetMed (D100), and will need to meet the standard academic entry requirements stated above (in addition to work experience).
Graduate finance
Graduate applicants eligible for a loan from Student Finance England (SFE) should be aware that financial support is different for applicants taking BVetMed as a second degree. Guidance can be found here. We recommend contacting SFE directly with any further queries.
Transferring into BVetMed
It is not possible to transfer to the BVetMed course from a degree programme partly completed at another university, nor can we use partial qualifications towards entry.
Internationally-qualified veterinarians
International applicants already holding a Veterinary Medicine degree who are seeking to practice in the UK are not eligible to apply for this course and should refer to the registration department of the RCVS.
Work experience
To apply for the BVetMed you will need to have prior work experience in order to have developed animal handling skills and obtained an insight into the work of veterinary surgeons. Before you apply, you must have completed the minimum requirements:
- A total of 70 hours (e.g. 10 full days) of work experience (paid or voluntary) in one or more veterinary practices
- A total of 70 hours in one or more non-clinical working environments with live animals (excl. the home environment/family business/pet ownership)
The above 140 hours must be obtained within the 18-month period directly preceding the application deadline. Earlier experience is welcome but will not count towards the 140 hour requirement.
We encourage you to think creatively about these environments and are interested to hear about any experiences that have helped to give you a sense of the veterinary role in the wider world. Examples of suitable non-clinical environments might include, but are not limited to: kennels, cattery, animal shelter, rural or city farm, stables, pet shop, lambing, intensive livestock, abattoir, animal research laboratory, wildlife park, zoo, etc. You do not have to have gained experience in all these areas.
NB: references will need to be available ahead of interview (see example); we strongly advise obtaining as you go.
The RVC is offering a programme for those from underrepresented backgrounds who have not been able to fulfil our work experience requirements. You can find information about how to apply for this here:
Work experience: Applicant Supplementary Form
All applicants applying through UCAS must complete the Applicant Supplementary Form. The form will be available in our application portal and applicants will be given access to this, and notified of the need to complete the form, via email on receipt of their application. The form must be submitted independently of, and in addition to, the UCAS application and within five days of your application being received by the RVC. The RVC will not contact applicants reminding them to submit the form before the deadline given.
The RVC uses email as the primary method for contacting applicants about their application. Emails may be sent from either admissions@rvc.ac.uk or myapplication@rvc.ac.uk and applicants are strongly encouraged to take the necessary steps to ensure emails from these addresses do not end up in spam or junk inboxes, as the RVC cannot accept responsibility for any applications that are unsuccessful as a result of missed information or deadlines.
Mitigating circumstances
If you wish to make us aware of any mitigating circumstances related to your application please see our guidance on mitigating circumstances here: www.rvc.ac.uk/mitigatingcircumstances
Interviews
All applicants to this course must attend an interview if invited and cannot receive an offer without attending an interview. Our interviews are held in person; if invited, it is often not possible to rearrange an interview for a different date, so applicants must ensure they are available for interview before applying and inform us by email of any specific days within this time period when they are unavailable. Interviews will take place in the following locations on the dates listed below:
North America:
Charlotte, North Carolina
Wednesday 13th November 2024
Thursday 14th November 2024
Friday 15th November 2024
Saturday 16th November 2024
Fort Worth, Texas
Monday 18th November 2024
Tuesday 19th November 2024
Los Angeles, California
Friday 22nd November 2024
Saturday 23rd November 2024
Sunday 24th November 2024
United Kingdom:
RVC Camden campus, London
Wednesday 4th December 2024 (priority for applicants to our Accelerated Veterinary Medicine course)
Thursday 5th December 2024 (priority for applicants to our Accelerated Veterinary Medicine course)
Wednesday 11th December 2024 (priority for international applicants studying in the UK)
Monday 16th December 2024
Tuesday 17th December 2024
Wednesday 18th December 2024
Thursday 19th December 2024
Friday 20th December 2024
Asia:
Hong Kong
Wednesday 8th January 2025
Singapore
Saturday 11th January 2025
Sunday 12th January 2025
All applicants invited to interview will need to provide their passport (in some cases another valid form of ID will be acceptable), original A-level and GCSE certificates (if already completed) or equivalent qualifications and reference letters (see example) to cover the minimum work experience requirements as stated above.
Please note that if you apply to more than one of our Veterinary Medicine courses (excluding the Bachelor of Veterinary Science) and your application progresses to the interview stage, you will be invited to attend one interview only which will be used in our assessment of each of your applications.
English language requirements
- IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 or above with minimum 6.5 in each component
All applicants must have an acceptable English Language qualification, many of which are listed under 'Academic qualifications' above. Please see our English Language Requirements page for a list of qualifications we accept as alternatives.
How are applications assessed?
We have put together a document with advice on our process of selecting Veterinary Medicine students, from initial screening of applications through to making offers post-interview. This can be downloaded here.
Please note, applications for year one entry from those who have already commenced a Veterinary degree elsewhere will only be considered in the event of significant mitigating circumstances.
Additionally, if your most recent qualification is over 5-years old, due to the academic intensity of the course, we may require you to complete a more up to date qualification. Some exceptions apply to those who have since been working in a relevant scientific field. Please contact the Admissions team: admissions@rvc.ac.uk if you have any queries.
What will I be able to do with my qualification?
You will be entitled to practice as a veterinarian as soon as you have earned your BVetMed degree and registered as a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
Our graduates go on to enjoy a wide range of careers positions in veterinary medicine, including:
- Veterinary Surgeon
- Equine Junior Clinical Training Scholar
- Associate Veterinarian
- Nutritionist Equine
- Veterinary Assistant
- PhD Researcher
- Farm Animal Vet
- Locum Veterinary Surgeon
- Science Research Laboratory Volunteer
- Senior Veterinary Inspector
- Small Animal Junior Clinical Training Scholar
- Veterinary Surgeon Intern
They also go on to work for a variety of different employers, for example:
- Kernow Farm & Equine
- CVS (UK) Ltd
- Woodcroft Veterinary Group
- Donnington Grove Veterinary Group
- Westpoint Farm Vets
- Garden Veterinary Group
- Wingrove Veterinary Services
- Companion Care Vets
- NOLA Animal Clinic
- Independent Vet Care
- Banfield Pet Hospital
- Medivet
- Vets4Pets
- Newmarket Equine Hospital
The BVetMed Student Experience
Students from every year of the BVetMed course and from all around the world talk about what they have learned and what they have loved about doing this course at the RVC.
Below are some common queries about entry requirements and application. This section will be added to over time but if you have any queries, we would encourage you to contact us at admissions@rvc.ac.uk if your question is not answered here or on the Entry Requirements tab.
What if I haven't achieved the entry requirements?
Normally applicants need to have achieved our minimum entry requirements at both Level 2 (e.g. GCSE) and Level 3 (e.g. A Level) in order to progress any further in the application process. It does not matter if you achieve these minimum grades by re-sitting modules within the qualification. We do accept applications from those narrowly missing the published entry requirements. For further information on this, including how it will impact the assessment of your application, please refer to this document.
Does it count against me if I re-sit part, or all, of my qualification?
The RVC admissions policy is to accept re-taken grades or modules at GCSE, A Level or equivalent without penalty. However, if you do re-sit any qualifications you will be expected to meet our grade requirements on second sitting (for example, AAA at A Level), and we also specify that you must have achieved minimum grades on your first sitting (BBC at A Level, with B in Biology).
Applicants re-sitting other qualifications, or those taking new qualifications following an attempt in an alternative qualification, should contact the Admissions Office at admissions@rvc.ac.uk for information about minimum grades required at first sitting.
I'm a mature applicant. Are the requirements the same for me?
We welcome mature applicants at the RVC and have many on our programme. To be classified as mature student you would need to be 21 years of age on the 1st September in the year you enrol. We cannot apply the mature student criteria to applicants applying for deferred entry, unless they would be classed as a mature student in the year their application is submitted.
Our Level 3 requirements are the same but we understand you may have taken your GCSEs some time ago. Therefore, our requirements for mature students are a minimum of grade C in the following four subjects: Mathematics, English Language and either: Science and Additional Science or Biology and Chemistry or Double Science. If you are resitting, or are newly taking any GCSEs, the grade requirements will be as advertised in the GCSE section.
Applicants will normally be expected to have completed relevant qualifications for entry within the five years prior to the start of the course, unless they have been working in a relevant field, to ensure that their knowledge and study skills are sufficiently relevant and current to enable success on the course.
Is there a health assessment as part of the application process?
If your application is successful following interview, before taking up your place at the RVC you will be required to complete and clear an Occupational Health assessment.
Prior to submitting an application, we would like to draw your attention to the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeon's (RCVS) Fitness to Practice guidance and ask that you familiarise yourself with part two of the document and also their Day One Competences. If you have any concerns about your fitness to practice or anything within the two documents, then please contact us.
Can I re-apply if I've been unsuccessful previously?
You may, but in view of the large number and high quality of new candidates coming forward each year, we are normally unable to consider more than one repeat application.
The RVC is offering this programme to give people from underrepresented backgrounds, as identified in our Access and Participation Plan, who have not been able to fulfil our work experience requirements, the opportunity to gain the necessary experience to join our BVetMed degree.
Those successful in joining the programme will be exempt from meeting our work experience requirements when applying to the RVC's BVetMed or Accelerated BVetMed , as the programme's completion will be considered fulfilling these requirements. The programme is only open to those who will be applying to the RVC via UCAS in October 2024. If you plan to apply in future years, please revisit this page closer to the time to find out if the scheme is running for that year. Successful applicants will also be guaranteed an interview for the BVetMed/Accelerated BVetMed.
What to expect
The programme has been crafted based on our years of experience working with applicants and students, drawing on the expertise of our veterinary and animal handling experts to provide you with a high-quality experience that will be advantageous for both your interviews and during your studies. Students who join the programme will spend their time in the RVC’s state-of-the-art clinical facilities and at our working farm, where you will gain experience in the handling and husbandry for a range of species, an opportunity to see practice and an insight into the veterinary profession. You will also receive online and in-person support sessions to help you reflect on your experience and prepare for your interviews and future studies.
Initially, you must commit to joining us for one of the weeks detailed below. You will be offered further placement days if you later receive an offer to study on the RVC’s BVetMed course and you will need to commit to the number of additional days detailed as a condition of your offer.
The dates for the 2024 programme are as follows:
- Monday 21st October - Friday 25th October 2024
- Monday 28th October – Friday 1st November 2024
- Monday 17th February– Friday 21st February 2025
Anyone applying to the scheme must be able to commit to at least one set of the above dates in full. Start and finish times will vary but you should expect this to be between 7:30am and 6pm each day. The nature of the programme means you cannot mix and match dates. Anyone who fails to attend the full programme will not be permitted to continue and their RVC application will be made unsuccessful.
Please note the work experience is unpaid, and we will not be able to provide any funds to cover travel or accommodation costs to join this programme. Students will need to be able to cover any costs associated with travelling to the RVC in Hertfordshire and attending the programme. Lunch will be provided each day, as will transportation between RVC sites. The nearest train station is Potters Bar and a regular shuttle service runs to and from campus.
Note:
The programme will involve farm work and therefore you should expect to be outdoors, regardless of the weather conditions. The RVC will provide necessary protective clothing and equipment, but students are expected to come dressed in appropriate attire to ensure that they can move around easily and are warm and comfortable.
Eligibility
To apply to join the programme you must meet the criteria below:
- You are a UK/Irish national resident in the UK or have settled status (including permanent residence or indefinite leave to remain) in the UK.
- You will be submitting a UCAS application to the RVC’s BVetMed or Accelerated BVetMed course by 15 October 2024 (the application does not need to be submitted when you apply but if you are successful, it will be subject to the application being received).
- You have already completed 35 hours of work experience (clinical or non-clinical) but have not completed the required 140 hours to join the course.
- You must have already met, or be predicted to meet, the academic entry requirements to apply for the BVetMed or Accelerated BVetMed.
You must also meet one of the following criteria:
- You will be under 21 when you join the programme, attended a state-funded mainstream school, and received free school meals during your secondary education.
- Your ethnicity is Asian or Asian British; Black, Black British, Caribbean or African; Mixed or multiple ethnic groups; or the Other ethnic group category on the gov.uk list of ethnic groups.
If the programme is oversubscribed, we will give priority to those who meet all or most of the following criteria: ·
IMD Quintile score: If your home address is in an area with an Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) quintile score of 1. You can check this using one of the following links, depending on which country you live in:
- England: http://imd-by-postcode.opendatacommunities.org/imd/2019 (an IMD “Decile” score of 1 or 2 given here is equivalent to “quintile 1” above, and Decile 3 or 4 is equivalent to “quintile 2”).
- Wales: https://statswales.gov.wales/Catalogue/Community-Safety-and-Social-Inclusion/Welsh-Index-of-Multiple-Deprivation
- Scotland: https://simd.scot/
- Northern Ireland: https://deprivation.nisra.gov.uk/ (a Deprivation Rank in the top 20% most deprived is equivalent to “quintile 1” above, and top 40% is equivalent to “quintile 2”) ·
TUNDRA MSOA score:
- If your home address is in an area with a TUNDRA MSOA score of 1. You can check this via the Office for Students website.
- Care Leaver: you have been looked after by a local authority for at least 13 weeks since the age of 14 (requires letter from relevant authority). This includes foster care, residential care, kinship care as a formal agreement with the local authority or living at home under the supervision of the local authority.
- Level 2 School: If you are currently taking Level 3 (A-level or equivalent) qualifications, or have taken them within the last 12 months and the school at which you took your GCSEs is a school with an RVC contextual flag. You can check this here.
- Level 3 School: If you are currently taking Level 3 (A-level or equivalent) qualifications, or have taken them within the last 12 months, and your school is a school with an RVC contextual flag. You can check this here.
FAQs
When will I know if my application has been successful?
We aim to let the successful applicants know by Monday 30 September.
I cannot make the dates listed; can I apply anyway?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the programme we can only offer it for the dates listed and can only take people who can attend on all the days in the weeks listed and for the additional days offered subsequent to that.
Can I specify which animals I work with?
We are unable to accommodate specific requests to work with specific animals or what type of practice you see.
I live too far away to attend; will you be offering anything closer to where I live?
We do not have any plans to at the moment, although we may look to widen the scheme in future years, if it is successful.
What does a guaranteed interview mean?
You will automatically be invited to interview for the Accelerated/BVetMed if you are chosen to participate in this programme.
Will I get a guaranteed offer of a place?
No. Your interview performance will be considered alongside all other applicants, and this will be used to determine who receives an offer.
I haven’t submitted my UCAS application yet, can I still apply?
You can apply for the programme before you have submitted your UCAS application, but you must submit your UCAS application by the 15 October 2024 and apply to the BVetMed or Accelerated BVetMed programme at the RVC for you to be eligible to join the course.
I have over 140 hours of work experience but would like to do work experience at the RVC, can I do this programme?
No. This programme is aimed at supporting those who be unable to gain the necessary experience to join the RVC and therefore we are not able to accept those who meet our requirements in full.
I have more than 35 hours experience but not the full 140, can I do this programme?
We would encourage you to apply and will consider applications from those in this situation. Applications will be scored on a number of factors, including the amount of experience you already have and therefore having more will not necessarily prevent you from being considered.
I don’t meet the eligibility criteria, but I have mitigating circumstances for why I haven’t been able to gain the required work experience hours, can I apply?
We are unable to consider applications from people who do not meet the eligibility criteria. If you have mitigating circumstances you may wish to read our mitigating circumstances policy
I want to apply to the Gateway course at the RVC, can I apply to this programme?
The Gateway course does not require work experience and therefore you are not eligible for this programme.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for students commencing the course in 2025/26 are as follows:
|
Home Tuition Fees including Island Fees (Channel Islands & Isle of Man) | International Fees |
|---|---|
| £9,535 |
£47,960 |
The UK Government has confirmed that EU/EEA and Swiss national students who have started an eligible course in the 2020/21 academic year or earlier academic years remain eligible to pay the “home” rate of tuition fees and claim any financial support for which they are currently eligible for the duration of that course.
Tuition fee amounts are subject to increase each academic year, please be aware of this when making your calculations and planning how much money you will require.
- Students from countries outside the UK who wish to undertake full-time study at the RVC are required to pay the international fee for their programme of study (please see Fee status section).
- Information on Fees & Funding can be found here
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- Student membership of the British Veterinary Association for course duration.
- Access to books and journals essential to your course (print and digital)
- Open access and bookable IT equipment such as PCs and laptops
- Largely paperless curriculum plus £10 p.a. printing allowance
-
Annual membership of College gym (both campuses)
The following course-related costs are not included in the fees:
- Specialist clothing and equipment £600 for the whole course. This amount includes some likely additional spend on replacement items.
- Travel to AHEMS and EMS placements
- Some AHEMS and EMS placements will also require students to pay for board and lodging
- Travel to various intramural rotations (IMR). While majority of the core IMR take place in the College’s clinical centres, various weeks of core and tracking IMR require you to travel to various parts of London or further afield. Financial support is provided to help offset the likely travel costs entailed and for certain rotations accommodation is also provided.
Accommodation and living costs are not included in the fees. Our Housing Advice pages provide further information on College and private housing.
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