How to Become a Veterinarian: A Guide for Animal Lovers

Our question this week was:

I want to be a vet. How do I start?

Alexa P.

Answer

Hi Alexa,

Thank you so much for your question! It’s always exciting to hear from someone who wants to work with animals and help keep them healthy. Veterinary medicine is a wonderful career, and if you’re asking about how to become a veterinarian, you’re already taking the first step in the right direction.

Whether you’re in middle school, high school, or already in college, this guide will walk you through what to expect, how long the process takes, and even what to do if you decide you’d rather become a veterinary technician instead.

Why Become a Veterinarian?

Many people who ask how to become a veterinarian are animal lovers who want to make a real difference. Veterinarians do much more than give vaccines and treat sick pets. They also:

If you enjoy science, helping others, and working with animals, becoming a veterinarian can be a very rewarding career.

How to Become a Veterinarian: Step-by-Step

If you’re wondering exactly how to become a veterinarian, the process follows a clear path. It takes time and dedication, but every step prepares you for a successful career.

1. Focus on Science in High School

If you’re still in high school, start by building a strong academic foundation. Pay special attention to:

Good grades are important because veterinary schools are very competitive. You don’t have to be perfect, but strong science grades will help a lot.

This is also a great time to volunteer. Animal shelters, rescue organizations, and local veterinary clinics are excellent places to gain experience.

2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The next step in how to become a veterinarian is completing a college degree. Most students major in subjects like:

You don’t necessarily have to major in one of these, but you do need to complete certain science courses before applying to veterinary school. These often include:

While you’re in college, it’s extremely helpful to work or volunteer at a veterinary clinic. Not only does this give you hands-on experience, but it also shows veterinary schools that you truly understand what the job involves.

3. Apply to Veterinary School

After college, the next step in becoming a veterinarian is applying to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.

Veterinary schools review applications based on:

Many students apply to multiple schools because admission can be competitive. Don’t get discouraged if it takes more than one attempt; many excellent veterinarians didn’t get in on their first try.

4. Complete Veterinary School

Veterinary school typically takes four years to complete. During this time, you’ll study:

The first few years focus mainly on classroom learning and labs. In the final year, students usually complete clinical rotations where they work directly with animals under supervision.

This is the stage where your dream really starts to become reality.

5. Pass Licensing Exams

After graduating, you must pass a licensing exam before you can officially practice as a veterinarian. In the United States, this exam is called the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination).

Some states may also require additional testing or paperwork before granting a license.

Once you pass, you are officially a veterinarian!

How Long Does It Take to Become a Veterinarian?

One of the most common questions students ask is: how long does it take to become a veterinarian?

Here’s a realistic timeline:

That means it usually takes about 8 years total after high school.

If you decide to specialize (for example, in surgery, dermatology, or emergency medicine), you may complete an internship and residency after veterinary school. That can add another 2–4 years.

So, depending on your goals, how long it takes to become a veterinarian can range from 8 to 12 years in total.

What If Veterinary School Feels Like Too Much?

Some students start researching how to become a veterinarian but realize they want a shorter path into animal care. If that sounds like you, there’s another great option: becoming a veterinary technician.

How Can I Become a Veterinary Technician?

A veterinary technician (often called a “vet tech”) works closely with veterinarians and plays a huge role in patient care.

Vet techs help with:

Steps to Become a Veterinary Technician

1. Graduate from High School

Just like becoming a veterinarian, a strong science background helps.

2. Enroll in a Veterinary Technician Program

Most vet tech programs take about 2 years and result in an associate degree. These programs include both classroom learning and hands-on training.

3. Pass the Certification Exam

After finishing school, you’ll usually take a certification or licensing exam (requirements vary by state). Once you pass, you can begin working as a veterinary technician.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Veterinary Technician?

Compared to how long it takes to become a veterinarian, the timeline is much shorter.

About 2 years for a veterinary technician degree

A short time to study for and pass the certification exam

That means you could begin working with animals in as little as two to three years after high school.

Should You Become a Veterinarian or a Veterinary Technician?

If you’re trying to decide between becoming a veterinarian or a vet tech, here are a few things to consider.

Becoming a Veterinarian May Be Right for You If:

Becoming a Veterinary Technician May Be Right for You If:

Both careers are incredibly important, and veterinary clinics rely heavily on skilled technicians every day.

Tips for Students Who Want to Work with Animals

No matter which path you choose, here are some helpful tips:

Get Experience Early

Volunteer at animal shelters, rescues, or veterinary clinics. Even helping clean kennels can teach you valuable lessons about animal care.

Ask Questions

Talk to veterinarians and vet techs about what their jobs are really like. Most are happy to share advice with students.

Stay Curious

Keep learning about animals, health, and science. The more interested you are, the easier school will feel.

Don’t Give Up

Veterinary school can be competitive, but persistence matters. If becoming a veterinarian is your dream, stay focused and keep working toward it.