Veterinary medicine is a popular post-graduate degree with many non-traditional students. The majority of these students fall within the age range of 17-24. Older students are free to apply for programs so long as they qualify. Most veterinarian programs don’t have a set age limit for applicants. Unless your age makes it impossible to achieve course objectives, you’re never too old to become a veterinarian. As a student or practicing veterinarian, you can also secure benefits such as disability insurance for veterinarians. Here is more information about becoming a veterinarian later in life:
Veterinary School Application Age Ranges
The application age for veterinary school varies from college to college. According to data from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University, the 2023 age range was 19-39. A study from the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) broke down age ranges in vet schools as follows:
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The traditional category (24 or younger) accounted for 73% of students
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16% fell between 25 and 30 years
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4% were 31 and older
According to the study, about a fifth of the vet students fell outside the traditional age range. Anyone can join a veterinary school if they meet the legal admission age and course-specific and professional prerequisites. Many vet schools and colleges have admitted older students well into their 30s, 40s, and 50s.
Pros & Cons of Joining Vet School Late
Veterinary programs often come with tuition costs as well as lab fees and costs for course materials. If you are an older applicant who has worked full-time or part-time prior to applying, your saved money may assist you. Those with some saved income may have the financial security to excel in a veterinary program. You may also be joining with previous experience in the veterinary field or another related industry that could make you better prepared for schooling.
The primary drawback to joining vet school late is that your timeline will be pushed back further than other students. Becoming a veterinarian requires schooling as well as clinical experience. As an older applicant, you may not be able to practice veterinary medicine until several years later. Some people join veterinary schools to manage their businesses, so clinical experience isn’t always their priority. Students should understand why they’re pursuing a veterinarian career and how age may play a role in their opportunities.
Oldest Age For Becoming a Veterinarian
If you’re considering becoming a veterinarian, the first thing to do is determine whether you meet enrolment requirements. Veterinary schools accept applicants of nearly every age, so there is always time to become a veterinarian. Review each vet school you’re considering and identify any restrictions and requirements that may apply to you. Your age should not be an issue unless it will impact your ability to go through veterinary school.
Consider the prerequisite college classes, GRE, veterinary experience, and VMCAS. Brush up on college classes from your undergraduate program. Some students choose veterinary studies as a second career and use gap years or graduate studies to achieve their goals. Most schools have unique application orders for traditional and non-traditional students, but the requirements don’t change based on age.
Key Takeaways for Older Vet School Applicants
You can secure entry into any of the top vet schools provided you meet enrollment requirements. Most schools accept traditional and non-traditional students, so you can join in your 30s and 40s. Consider how many hours of veterinary experience you need to apply to vet school. Check out the veterinary medical college application service online form to learn what’s generally required by veterinary schools. Look into grade point average (GPA) requirements from different schools and tips for improving your application.
Becoming a veterinarian allows you to pursue many careers. Popular vet careers include general practice, emergency, specialty, industry, and relief/freelance veterinarians. You can find careers with the most feasible work schedules based on your needs. If you’re looking to join a vet school as an older student, contact the admissions office for the most accurate information. Many campuses and vet schools accept non-traditional students.
Do Older Students Need Disability Insurance for Veterinarians?
Joining a veterinary school at a later age might mean you’re already working or running a business. As a veterinary student, you may consider purchasing disability insurance for veterinarians to protect the income you will earn. Purchasing disability insurance for veterinarians is especially relevant if you’re applying as an older student. This insurance can protect your income in case of an injury, illness, or disability that keeps you from working as a veterinarian.
It’s Not Too Late for Veterinary School
Students of all ages and backgrounds go on to make fantastic candidates for veterinarians. While age may play a role in your timeline for achieving a veterinary degree, it will not preclude you from being accepted to a program in most cases. Think through what you’d like to do with your degree and consider applying if veterinary school seems right for you and your career goals.
