The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville has the distinction of being the Sunshine State's sole veterinary school. While students from anywhere in the world may apply to the veterinary program, eligible Florida residents receive priority consideration. Veterinary students may specialize in small or large animal medicine. The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine also includes a number of graduate training and research programs. On-site hospitals include a 40,000 square foot equine facility and state-of-the-art small animal facility.
Applications
Between 80 and 88 students are accepted into the four-year veterinary program annually. Applicants may use the Veterinary Medical College Application Service, which processes and sends applications to participating veterinary schools throughout the country. All applications must be submitted by October 1 of the year prior to admission. Applicants must also submit the University of Florida Professional School application. Both applications include non-refundable processing fees. The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine notes that "mature, well-motivated applicants" should have all necessary documentation submitted well before deadlines.
Fees
For the 2011 to 2012 academic year, students enrolled in the professional curriculum at the university are subject to fees of $24,566.42 for state residents and $45,541.62 for out-of-state Florida residents.The fee schedule may change each year. To qualify for any financial aid, students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly called the FAFSA.
Selection
Besides Florida residency, students are selected for admission to the veterinary school on the basis of outstanding academic achievement, Graduate Record Exam results and prior veterinary experience. Any direct experience working under certified veterinarians is highly recommended, with most successful veterinary school candidates accruing a minimum of 500 hours of such work. Other consideration for admittance are extracurricular activities and volunteer work, evaluation form comments, a brief essay on why the applicants seeks a veterinary career and the results of the personal interview. Students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 in any pre-requisite courses for admission consideration. Most veterinary school candidates receive bachelors of science degrees in biology, animal science, zoology, microbiology or biochemistry.
Immunizations
Students accepted into the veterinary college must fill out and submit a questionnaire regarding their health history. All students must be current on immunizations required by the University Student Health Care Center. Veterinary students must also receive vaccinations for rabies and tetanus and any other immunizations recommended by the federal Center of Communicable Diseases.
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