Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program (DVM) for International Students
Since 1862, the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) has led veterinary education, continually adapting to meet the profession's evolving needs. The four-year DVM program offers hands-on, interdisciplinary training in advanced facilities for companion and large animals, attracting talent
from Canada and internationally.
- #1
- in Canada (QS Rankings 2024 )
- Top 10
- in the World (QS Rankings 2024 )
What Sets Us Apart
- From year one, students receive hands-on training in a supportive, systems-based curriculum and are treated as colleagues by faculty and staff.
- Training includes real cases at on-site companion and large animal hospitals.
- Opportunities to explore careers in research and academia are offered through paid summer research programs.
- Special attention is given to fostering skills in clinical communication, animal handling and business management.
- Graduates are well-prepared for the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE), with a 99.9% pass rate in 2024.
Why choose the Ontario Veterinary College
- Specialized clinical and animal housing
facilities:- Large Animal Hospital
- Small Animal Primary Healthcare Centre
- Referral Companion Animal Hospital
- Animal Cancer Centre
- Intensive Care Unit
- Farm animal barn and horse stables
- Dedicated international student advisors, career counselors and a DVM Peer Helper.
- 24/7 mental health support with counselling,
health and accessibility services. - 25+ DVM-specific clubs.
- 30+ varsity sports teams and premier athletic
facilities. - Ranked as having the best campus food in
Canada (Maclean’s magazine).
How To Apply
Applications to the DVM program are accepted through the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) VMCAS application
system or by applying directly to the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph.
- At least two years of a full-time bachelor’s
degree. - Completion of eight prerequisite courses:
- Two humanities and/or social sciences
- Two biological sciences
- Cell biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
- Statistics
- GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4-point scale for the
prerequisites and in the last four full-time
semesters.
- Experience with animals and veterinarians.
- Participation in extracurricular activities.
- Three professional references, one of which must be from a veterinarian who supervised the applicant’s veterinary experience.
The faculty, staff and students at OVC create a supportiveenvironment that fosters mentorship and professionalgrowth. I’ve joined the Veterinary Fraternity and SurgeryClub. I’m also learning to skate and participating in the OVCWomen’s Challenge Cup!
As an international student, I feel supported, recognized and cared for. Research internships are helping me enhance my clinical, leadership and communication skills. Guelph’s beautiful, small-city charm, safety and tight-knit community make it a welcoming environment for everyone.
The University of Guelph is a 90-minute drive from Buffalo, NY, and one hour from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Ranked among Canada’s top 3 safest cities, Guelph offers the perfect blend of small-town community and big-city opportunity. (Rentola, 2023)
