Vet Schools in Australia: Top Schools, Scholarships & Requirements for International Students and Canadians (2025/2026)
- 10 min
- Published: 20 November 2025
- Updated: 20 November 2025
What Are the Benefits of Studying Veterinary Medicine in Australia for Canadian and International Students?
1. Unique and diverse clinical exposure
Australia’s remote landscape and unique wildlife give students access to different environments, circumstances, and species. This translates to unparalleled clinical experience, such as specialized training in wildlife and conservation medicine, that widens your career prospects.
2. Globally recognized accredited courses for Canadian students
Several veterinary programs in Australia are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), so graduate qualifications are recognized in both the US and the UK. Students can practice in Canada if they follow processes outlined by the correct licensing body, which can vary from province to province.
3. Welcoming and supportive atmosphere
Australia is known for its diverse population and is welcoming to international students, with veterinary programs including supportive staff dedicated to your wellbeing. As of July 2025, there are 791,146 international students in Australia.
Best Vet Schools in Australia in 2025/2026
Studying veterinary medicine in Australia is appealing because the programs offered by top schools come with global accreditation and offer many opportunities for hands-on experience. Many of these programs are also known for their international student communities. Here are the top schools of veterinary medicine in Australia, based on QS World University Rankings.
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The University of Sydney
The University of Sydney
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Sydney |
Rank | 21 |
Overall Score | 86 |
Best Known For | Global research reputation in animal welfare, genomics, infectious disease, wildlife preservation, clinical practice, and education. One Health framework, which encourages practice of veterinary science that understands connections to veterinary health, human medicine, and the environment. |
Employer Reputation | 89.5 |
Academic Reputation | 77.3 |
Annual Intl. Fees (AUD) | Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience: AUD$60,600: Bachelor of Veterinary Biology and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (Joint Program): AUD$65,900 Master of Veterinary Clinical Studies: AUD$58,400 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine: AUD$80,500 |
Scholarships | For more information, see their: International undergraduate scholarships page International postgraduate coursework scholarships page International postgraduate research scholarships page |
English Tests | IELTS: Score of 7.0 overall at minimum, at least 7.0 in each component |
Academic Tests | Acuity Insights Casper test or the Kira Talent test |
The University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Melbourne |
Rank | 25 |
Overall Score | 85.5 |
Best Known For | Preparation for global pathways in veterinary practice through accreditation via theAustralasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC),American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) andRoyal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). State-of-the-art, modern, student-centric clinical and learning facilities including specialist clinical skills labs, surgical teaching laboratory, extensive animal anatomy laboratories and more. |
Employer Reputation | 89.9 |
Academic Reputation | 71.3 |
Annual Intl. Fees (AUD) | Master of Veterinary Science - AUD $40,000+ (will vary with courseload) Doctor of Veterinary Science - AUD$65,984 (will vary with courseload) |
Scholarships | For more information, view the open scholarships for the Melbourne Veterinary School here. |
English Tests | IELTS (academic English only): 6.5 overall with no section less than 6.0 TOEFL Internet-based test*: 79 +, Writing 21; Speaking 18; Reading 13; Listening 13 Pearson Test of English: 64+ with no communicative skill below 60 Cambridge English: Advanced/ Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 176 +, with no skill below 169. |
Academic Tests |
The University of Queensland
The University of Queensland
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Brisbane City |
Rank | 35 |
Overall Score | 81.7 |
Best Known For | Freedom to practice abroad as a graduate, due to full accreditation from the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and the American Veterinary Medical Association. Exceptional training via first-rate facilities at the Gatton campus’s Small Animal Hospital and Equine Specialist Hospital, supporting laboratory-based, animal-based, clinical, and field research. |
Employer Reputation | 85 |
Academic Reputation | 69.8 |
Annual Intl. Fees (AUD) | Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours)- AUD $85,440 Doctor of Veterinary Clinical Science - Fees will vary depending on study load and whether you study internally or remotely. For more information, consult the postgraduate research fees page here. |
Scholarships | For more information, see the University of Queensland scholarships page. |
English Tests | IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 and minimum of 6.0 in all sections Or equivalent language test scores. |
Academic Tests |
Murdoch University
Murdoch University
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Murdoch |
Rank | 39 |
Overall Score | 81 |
Best Known For | Full accreditation from the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC), the UK’s Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education. Offers Conservation Medicine Program for students interested in specializing in wildlife and exotic pet medicine. |
Employer Reputation | 61 |
Academic Reputation | 68.7 |
Annual Intl. Fees (AUD) | Bachelor of Science / Doctor of Veterinary Medicine - AUD $66, 690 Master of Veterinary Clinical Studies - AUD $22, 068 (Total fees, program is 1.5 years in duration). |
Scholarships | Browse available scholarships via the Murdoch University scholarship page. |
English Tests | IELTS: 6.0 overall, no score below 6.0 in any section Cambridge English: Advanced/ Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 169 overall, no skill below 169 TOEFL: 60 Overall, 13 Reading; 21 Writing; 18 Speaking; 12 Listening Pearson Test of English: 50 overall, no skill score below 50. |
Academic Tests |
The University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Adelaide |
Rank | 51-100 |
Overall Score | N/A |
Best Known For | Renowned internationally for its research reputation in animal welfare, comparative medicine, antimicrobial resistance ecology, epidemiology and evidence-based science, wildlife health, domestic animal health and disease, and One Health. $37 million, state-of-the art veterinary teaching and research facilities, which gives students valuable clinical and hands-on experience, and access to innovative and advanced tools. |
Employer Reputation | 72.9 |
Academic Reputation | 55.7 |
Annual Intl. Fees (AUD) | Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience) - AUD $59,300 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine - AUD $81,400 |
Scholarships | Browse available scholarships for veterinary science and medicine via the University of Adelaide scholarships and prize page. |
English Tests | IELTS: Overall score of 7.0, minimum score of 7.0 across all categories TOEFL: 94 overall, Reading 24; Listening 24; Speaking 23; Writing 27 Pearson: 65 overall, no skill below 65 Cambridge English: Advanced/ Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): 185 overall, no skill below 185. |
Academic Tests |
Veterinary Courses in Australia for International Students and Canadians
There are several types of veterinary courses in Australia offered to international students and Canadians. These range from undergraduate degrees like the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc), which is the standard qualification to become a veterinarian, to programs such as the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).
There are also postgraduate options like a Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc) or Master of Veterinary Clinical Studies, while some universities offer programs in related fields.
Here are some of the more popular programs and courses.
The University of Sydney
Program | Qualification | Campus/Location | Next Intake | Duration | IELTS | Fees (AUD) | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor | Camden | 09.02.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 57,700 | Entry requirements for The University of Sydney: A secondary education qualification such as the NSW Higher School Certificate (including national and international equivalents), OR approved higher education study, including approved preparation courses. | |
Bachelor | Darlington | 09.02.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 57,700 | Entry requirements: A secondary education qualification such as the NSW Higher School Certificate (including national and international equivalents), OR approved higher education study, including approved preparation courses. Australian year 12 - ATAR- 80, IB Diploma- 29 | |
Bachelor's degree with Honours | Darlington | 09.02.2026 | 1 Year(s) | 6.5 | 57,700 | To qualify for admission to the Bachelor of Science (Honours), you must: have qualified for or be a graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent from the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification from another tertiary institution; have completed a relevant major (i.e. minimum of 24 credit points of 3000-level units of study) relating to the intended Honours discipline; have achieved a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of at least 65.00 or have a credit average (65.00) in 48 credit points of relevant* 2000-level and 3000-level units of study; and satisfy any additional criteria set by the relevant Head of School or Discipline. The University's Coursework Rule requires Bachelor of Science (Honours) students to complete their Honours program within 10 years of the commencement of their original qualifying Bachelor of Science degree (or equivalent). As such, if your original Bachelor of Science degree (or equivalent) was commenced more than 10 years ago or close to 10 years ago, you may be ineligible for admission. Applicants whose original Bachelor of Science degree (or equivalent) was commenced more than 10 years ago or close to 10 years ago are strongly recommended to seek advice from the Admissions Office prior to submitting an application for Bachelor of Science (Honours). The Admissions Office will consult and confer with the relevant contacts in the Faculty of Science and the relevant School as appropriate. Please note that, in some Schools and Disciplines, the minimum WAM requirement is higher than 65.00, particularly where entry is very competitive. For example, a minimum WAM of 75.00 is generally required for entry into Honours in Psychology.* Relevant units of study must be nominated by the School or Discipline and must be accompanied by strong written support from the School or Discipline. Willingness of a member of academic staff to act as your supervisor does not guarantee entry into Honours. However, admission into Honours is subject to an appropriate supervisor and project being available. TOEFL-IBT- A minimum result of 85 overall including a minimum result of 17 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 19 in Writing | |
Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Science in Animal Health, Disease & Welfare | Bachelor | Darlington | 09.02.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 53,600 | Entry requirements: A secondary education qualification such as the NSW Higher School Certificate (including national and international equivalents), OR approved higher education study, including approved preparation courses.70 Australian year 12 - ATAR, 24 IB Diploma |
Bachelor of Science & Bachelor of Laws – Animal Health, Disease & Welfare | Dual Degree | Darlington | 09.02.2026 | 5 Year(s) | 7.5 | 53,600 | Entry requirements: A secondary education qualification such as the NSW Higher School Certificate (including national and international equivalents), OR approved higher education study, including approved preparation courses. 95.5 Australian year 12 - ATAR, 38 IB Diploma |
Bachelor of Science & Bachelor of Advanced Studies – Animal & Veterinary Bioscience | Dual Degree | Darlington | 09.02.2026 | 4 Year(s) | 6.5 | 57,700 | Entry requirements: A secondary education qualification such as the NSW Higher School Certificate (including national and international equivalents), OR approved higher education study, including approved preparation courses. |
The University of Melbourne
Program | Qualification | Campus/Location | Next Intake | Duration | IELTS | Fees (AUD) | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Doctoral* | Parkville | 02.03.2026 | 4 Year(s) | 7 | 85,984 | Entry requirements for The University of Melbourne: International students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne may be eligible for selection into this major when they have obtained a DVM Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of at least 75%, based on their results in first year level and second year level science subjects. | |
Bachelor | Parkville | 02.03.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 52,944 | ||
Bachelor | Parkville | 02.03.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 52,944 | Entry requirements: Applicants are selected according to academic merit, in the form of the ATAR or notional ATAR calculated by the relevant Tertiary Admissions Centre. Courses which select primarily on ATAR will have minimum ATARs set in advance, and you can only be selected below this point if you have additional criteria to be considered. International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma - 31 | |
Bachelor's degree with Honours | Parkville | 02.03.2026 | 1 Year(s) | 6.5 | 52,752 | Entry requirements: To be eligible for the Bachelor of Science (Honours) you must: Have completed a three-year undergraduate degree with at least two years in science or technology areas of study within the last 10 years; Have completed at least 50 points at third-year level in science or technology areas of study (or equivalent) within the last 10 years; Have achieved a weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 65% in your undergraduate degree. | |
Master (Research) | Parkville | 08.12.2025 | 2 Year(s) | 6.5 | 58,976 | Entry requirements: A 4-year bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline, including a substantial research component (equivalent to at least 25 per cent of 1 year of full-time study), with a weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 75 per cent in your final year subjects or equivalent, or A master's degree in a relevant discipline, including a substantial research component (equivalent to at least 25 per cent of 1 year of full-time study), with a WAM of at least 75 per cent or equivalent, or A qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent. | |
Ph.D. | Parkville | 08.12.2025 | 4 Year(s) | 6.5 | 58,976 | Entry requirements: A 4-year undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline, including a substantial research component (equivalent to at least 25 per cent of 1 year of full-time study), with a weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 75 per cent in your final year subjects or equivalent, or |
The University of Queensland (UQ)
Program | Level | Campus/Location | Next Intake | Duration | IELTS | Fees (AUD) | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor (Hons) | Brisbane | 23.02.2026 | 5 Year(s) | 7 | 85,440 | Entry requirements for The University of Queensland: Year 12 (or equivalent) General English subject (Units 3 & 4, C); Chemistry (Units 3 & 4, C); Mathematical Methods (Units 3 & 4, C); and one of Physics or Biology (Units 3 & 4, C). Applicants must also complete a situational judgement test in the year of application and obtain a score which is higher than two standard deviations below the mean score for the test for that sitting. English Proficiency IELTS overall 7; reading 7; writing 7; speaking 7; listening 7. For other English Language Proficiency Tests and Scores approved for UQ TOEFL IBT - Overall 100, listening 25, reading 25, writing 27, speaking 23. TOEFL PB - Overall 600, listening 59, reading 59, writing 64/6. Pearsons - Overall 72, sub bands minimum 72. CES - Overall 185, All sub bands minimum 185. BE and OET are not accepted. | |
Bachelor of Science (Honours) – Animal & Veterinary Bioscience (Gatton) | Bachelor (Hons) | Brisbane | 23.02.2026 | 1 Year(s) | 6.5 | 54,096 | Entry requirements: Bachelor of Science (or equivalent), with: a grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 on a 7-point scale, and a GPA of at least 4.5 for 8 units of courses at level 3 or higher relevant to the honours project, and have secured an honours project and supervisor, and satisfied any additional requirements set by the head of school. |
Bachelor (Hons) | Brisbane | 23.02.2026 | 1 Year(s) | 6.5 | 54,096 | Bachelor of Veterinary Technology or equivalent non-UQ AQF level 7 degree English Proficiency IELTS overall 6.5; reading 6; writing 6; speaking 6; listening 6. For other English Language Proficiency Tests and Scores approved for UQ TOEFL IBT - Overall 87, listening 19, reading 19, writing 21 and speaking 19. TOEFL PB - Overall 570, listening 54, reading 54, writing 59/5. Pearsons - Overall Score of 64 and 60 in all sub bands. BEP - A minimum overall grade of 4 plus a minimum grade of C in all macro skills. CES - Overall 176 and 169 in all sub bands. OET is not accepted. | |
Ph.D. | Brisbane | 01.01.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 13,808 | Entry requirements: Master of Philosophy (or another research master’s degree); or Bachelor’s degree from an approved university with at least honours class IIA or equivalent; or Coursework master’s degree with an overall grade point average of 5.65 on the 7-point UQ scale which includes relevant research experience, approved by the dean; or Postgraduate degree (at least one year full-time or equivalent) with an overall grade point average of 5 on the 7-point UQ scale, together with demonstrated research experience equivalent to honours class IIA will be considered on a case-by-case basis; or Bachelor’s degree plus at least 2 years of relevant research experience, including research publications. |
Murdoch University
Program | Level | Campus/Location | Next Intake | Duration | IELTS | Fees (AUD) | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dual Degree | Murdoch | 09.02.2026 | 5 Year(s) | 6 | 78,192 | Entry requirements for Murdoch University: International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Total score of 36 points or higher | |
Honours | Murdoch | 09.02.2026 | 1 Year(s) | 6 | 39,240 | Entry requirements: Completion of a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent in the same discipline or cognate area with a Credit average (GPA 2); subject to availability of a suitable supervisor and approval by the School Dean. Students interested in enrolling in Honours are advised to contact the Academic Chair before application to discuss supervision of their potential research project. | |
Master (Coursework) | Murdoch | 09.02.2026 | 1.5 Year(s) | 6 | 84,060 | Entry requirements: Current registration as a Veterinary Surgeon in Australia or recognised qualifications that would permit registration as a Veterinary Surgeon in Australia; plus acceptance into a Residency Training Program in the College of Veterinary Medicine; plus approval of the Academic Chair. | |
Bachelor of Agricultural Science / Bachelor of Business – Animal Health | Dual Degree | Murdoch | 09.02.2026 | 4 Year(s) | 6 | 39,240 | Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Total score of 36 points or higher |
The University of Adelaide
Program | Level | Campus/Location | Next Intake | Duration | IELTS | Fees (AUD) | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor | Roseworthy | 23.02.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 7 | 53,300 | Entry is competitive. Eligible applicants will be ranked on: combined Questionnaire and Acuity Insights assessment (Casper) results (50%) and academic score results (50%). To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. Recent secondary education (Year 12) Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) with an adjusted ATAR equivalent selection rank of 90.00 or higher. Higher education study Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (or higher AQF level qualification) with an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or above from a recognised higher education institution. Essential requirements: Applicants must Complete a prescribed questionnaire about their life experiences and their knowledge and interest in veterinary science; AND Complete the Acuity Insights assessment (Casper); AND Read, understand and believe you will meet the Inherent Requirements; AND Read, understand and agree to the Vaccination Guidelines. | |
Doctoral* | Roseworthy | 23.02.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 7 | 77,500 | Entry requirements: To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria. A completed Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience) from the University of Adelaide or Adelaide University. Please note: the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine does not accept direct applications. | |
Bachelor | Roseworthy | 09.02.2026 | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 48,000 | Entry requirements: Successful completion of an Australian year 12 qualification with a minimum pass in an accepted English language subject. | |
Master (Research) | Adelaide | 23.02.2026 | 1.5 Year(s) | 6.5 | 56,600 | Entry requirements: For admission to a Master of Research degree, you will need to have completed either (or equivalent to)- A 3-year Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) with a weighted average mark (WAM) of ≥ 65; or A 4-year Bachelor (Honours) degree (AQF level 8) with a WAM of 65; or A Graduate Certificate (AQF level 8) in research training (or equivalent) with an overall WAM of greater than or equal to 65, following a 3-year Bachelor degree or 4-year Bachelor (Honours) degree. Additional requirements You will need to demonstrate that your prior qualifications are in a discipline relevant to the proposed area of research – unless an exemption is approved by the Pro Vice Chancellor: Research Training (or delegate). Please note that admission to a research degree at Adelaide University is conditional on the availability of a suitable supervisory panel and resources to support the proposed project. | |
Ph.D. | Adelaide | 09.02.2026 / | 3 Year(s) | 6.5 | 62,500 / 54,800 | Entry requirements: A relevant University of Adelaide Honours degree (or equivalent), with at least a second-class Honours (upper division) A postgraduate coursework degree which contains a significant research component and meets the minimum GPA requirements A relevant University of Adelaide Master of Philosophy (or equivalent) |
Australian Vet School Requirements for Canadian & International Students
Admission requirements differ depending on your school and degree type, so always consult the current program page for the most accurate information. What most Australian schools require include a high school diploma or bachelor's degree with a strong science background, proof of English language proficiency, and a strong academic score like an ATAR or equivalent. Canadian and international students must meet specific prerequisites, provide evidence of their commitment to veterinary science, and may also need to complete additional tests like the Casper test.
Academic requirements (grades, prerequisites)
Depending on your entry point, academic prerequisites will differ. Please see the breakdown below for more information.
Undergraduate veterinary program:
High school degree - Equivalent average of 85%+
Grade 12 sciences and maths
Grade 12 English
Postgraduate veterinary program:
Bachelor’s degree in a subject relevant to veterinary science. Consult the program page for your school to get their specific undergraduate degree requirements.
Average equivalent to 75% - 90%, depending on the school and program
English test requirements (IELTS/TOEFL)
This is a requirement across the board for vet schools in Australia. While these are overall scores, you should aim for a minimum of these ranges for all categories of the language tests. Also, please note that the board that oversees Australia, the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council, only accepts in-person language test scores.
IELTS:
6.0 to 7.0 overall
TOEFL
60-100 overall
Pearson
50-65+ overall
Cambridge English
Minimum overall score of 169 - 176+
Admission tests
Casper situational judgment test. This tests decision-making, ethics, empathy, and communication. A practice test is available online to familiarize yourself with the format in advance. Want to stand out? Aim for a strong score within the third or fourth quartile to increase your competitiveness.
How to Apply to Vet Schools in Australia (Step-by-Step)
1. Select your school and note important application deadlines
Prepare your application at least one year ahead of submission dates. Based on your personal goals for your career as a veterinarian, pick a shortlist of schools and familiarize yourself with the selection criteria such as minimum GPA, necessary prerequisites, relevant work or volunteer experience, strong personal statement, and a completed Casper test.
Note all application dates, including early admission deadlines, which can be a great opportunity to take advantage of, especially with a honed application. Try to submit at least a week in advance of the deadline.
2. Prepare your documents
Gather all necessary documents required, which can vary from school to school, and can typically include:
Transcripts
Personal statement
Resume or CV
Your GPA
Passport Photo Page
Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs)
Test scores (Casper, English test, etc.)
Double-check to make sure all details are correct and free of errors, and that the format you’re submitting meets the minimum file requirements. Take time to perfect your personal statement, which should convey your passion, skills, and goals as a veterinarian; this can be a crucial part of a successful application. You may even want to reach out to study abroad counsellors, such as IDP Education Canada, for free support on creating a competitive personal statement. Learn more here.
3. Applying via IDP or through program portal
You can submit your application through your program’s online portal or through IDP Education, where you can accelerate the process and heighten your chances of admission with our FastLane service, which gives you an in-principle offer within minutes. Here’s how it works:
Register and create an account (no documents necessary)
Browse and select your ideal course
Receive your eligibility decision.
An IDP counsellor will review and submit your application
Your dream university fast-tracks your application
Ready to get started? Learn more about the IDP Education FastLane service here.
Cost of Vet Schools in Australia
Tuition range
Veterinary medicine programs in Australia can cost between AUD 45,000 and AUD 75,000 per year for international students, depending upon the school and program. Check the fees listed in the tables above for more accurate figures. Also, always check the university page for the latest tuition fees, as these are subject to change.
Living costs
The estimated monthly costs for a family of four are CAD $ 5,225.3 (AUD$ 5,702.3), excluding rent. The estimated monthly costs for a single person are CAD $1,450.2C (AUD$ 1,582.6), excluding rent. The cost of living in Australia is, on average, 7.6% higher than in Canada, while rent is, on average, 3.9% higher than in Canada.
Source: Numbeo
Extra: insurance, books, lab coats, equipment
Most veterinary courses have required or recommended course materials, including books and equipment. There may also be ancillary costs such as uniforms. Veterinary science equipment can also include dissecting kits, safety glasses, stethoscopes, thermometers, forceps, and scalpels, among others, all of which vary in price by brand and quality.
To find out more about studying in Australia, check out IDP Canada’s Cost of Living Calculator.
Scholarships for Veterinary Students in Australia
University-funded scholarships
Needs-based scholarships
Offered by your university to support students who demonstrate a level of financial need, verified by documentation as specified by the eligibility requirements.Merit-based scholarships
Awarded based on your academic strengths, as well as your extracurriculars, leadership skills, and other criteria.Program-specific scholarships
These scholarships are based on your goals, skills, and promise as a future veterinarian. For example, The University of Sydney offers the Professor Marsh Edwards AO Scholarship for full-time Doctor of Veterinary Medicine students.
International student scholarships
To find exclusive international student scholarships, reach out to your school’s international student centre or financial aid office. Some examples for scholarships for international veterinary students in Australia include the University of Queensland Destination Australia Scholarships and the University of Sydney Francis Henry Loxton Equity Scholarship.
For more information, use IDP Education’s Find a Scholarship tool.
Scholarships, Loans & Aid for Canadian Students
The Australian High Commission Canada lists resources for finding funding as a Canadian student studying in Australia. You can review their list here.
You may also refer to the EduCanada scholarship search tool for Canadians, which can help you find funding while you complete your veterinary degree in Australia. Access it here.
Practicing Veterinary Medicine in Canada After Graduation
If you obtained your credentials and work experience in Australia and intend to practice veterinary medicine in Canada, you will have to successfully complete the National Examining Board (NEB) Examination. The NEB reviews and evaluates credentials of graduates of non-Canadian colleges of veterinary medicine who wish to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in Canada. Successful completion of the NEB Examination or receipt of a Certificate of Qualification is a prerequisite to apply for a general license. Find out more here.
Career Opportunities After Vet School in Australia
Working in Australia
If you wish to continue working in Australia after completing your studies there, graduates have an array of career opportunities beyond traditional private practice. These include roles in public health and government, as well as research, or industry.
Some students choose small animal practice, and work in urban clinics with pets. Others choose to work in rural and regional Australia, where large animal practice focuses on livestock and horses. You can also work in emergency and critical care at specialist centers or animal hospitals, while further study can lead to specialisation in fields like internal medicine or surgery.
There are also non-clinical careers such as government roles in public health, food safety and inspection services, or animal welfare enforcement. Students can also contribute to animal health and welfare research, work for animal health companies, shelters, or field conservation efforts.
Returning to Canada
Graduates of Australian veterinary schools have strong career opportunities in Canada due to the high demand for veterinarians. However, to practice in Canada, students need a license and must graduate from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). They must also register with the Canadian National Examining Board (NEB), which reviews credentials of graduates from non-Canadian colleges of veterinary medicine.
International roles (UK, US, Asia-Pacific)
Graduates from veterinary schools in Australia can pursue careers in international roles across the UK, US, and Asia-Pacific, provided they meet specific registration and certification requirements. International opportunities exist not only in industry, via veterinary pharmaceutical and animal health companies, but with international organizations and government roles in public health, food safety, or animal welfare. There are also roles in academia and research at foreign universities.
To practice in the UK, students need to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). For the US, they must be licensed by a state veterinary board and pass a national examination, such as the one administered by the AVMA's Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG). As for working in Asia-Pacific, each country has its own veterinary regulatory body.
Student Experience and Lifestyle
Campus life
Studying veterinary medicine in Australia allows international and Canadian students access to all kinds of on-campus facilities, from sporting clubs and gyms to student housing. Many universities have active student communities that organize regular events. Studying in regional areas also encourages connections with the local communities and practices. Check the university website for information on amenities and what campus life looks like in the city of your choice.
Support for international students
International students and Canadian students have access to a lot of student services while studying veterinary medicine in Australia. Many universities provide academic support in the form of international student advisors, as well as counselling services. There are also student societies at some universities (such as veterinary societies), which provide a network for personal as well as academic support.
Students can also get access to assistance with finding suitable accommodation or preparing for a career after graduation.
Testimonials
Want a first-hand report of what studying in Australia is like? Check out what this Canadian student has to say about living in Australia, career prospects, and more.
FAQs
How many vet schools are in Australia?
According to the Australian Veterinary Boards Council, the accredited veterinary schools in Australia include Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, James Cook University in Townsville, Murdoch University in Perth, The University of Adelaide, The University of Melbourne, The University of Queensland in Gatton, and The University of Sydney.
How much does vet school cost in Australia?
Veterinary schools in Australia can cost between AUD 45,000 and AUD 75,000 per year for international students, depending upon the school and program.
How many years is vet school in Australia?
Vet school in Australia can take between 5 and 6 years to complete, depending on the university and program you choose.
Can Canadians practice at home with an Australian vet degree?
Yes, Canadians can practice at home with an Australian vet degree, provided they register with the Canadian National Examining Board (NEB), and meet specific provincial licensing requirements.
Do I need work experience before applying?
Yes, many Australian universities require a minimum amount of work experience before applying, although the exact requirements vary by university.
Can I bring my family with me while studying in Australia?
Yes, you can bring your spouse (or de facto partner) and dependent children under 18 with you to Australia on a student visa while studying in Australia, but your parents and siblings will need to apply for a separate visitor visa.
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