Application Review Process

Evaluation Factors

When reviewing applications, we take into consideration the quality of the academic program, number and quality of upper-level biomedical science courses, ability to carry a full schedule of courses, academic trends, and employment during academic terms.

Other factors include participation in a variety of extracurricular and community activities with evidence of achievement and leadership; experience working with animals and familiarity with the many facets of veterinary medicine; diverse experiences; written and verbal communication skills, presentation of a carefully prepared application; and a candidate’s potential as a successful veterinarian.

Admissions Philosophy

The philosophy of the Veterinary Admissions Committee is to strive to admit a class of veterinary students who will successfully complete the program and actively contribute to current and future needs of the veterinary profession.

Holistic Review

The admissions committee uses a holistic approach in the review of every application. Each component helps build the full 360 degree picture of who you are and your story. Each piece, coursework, quality/hours of experience, personal statement, and letters of recommendation are all considered individually and as a whole to select candidates who will not only be able to handle the academic rigor of a veterinary program, but also contribute to the veterinary profession.

Our holistic evaluation does not use calculated GPAs, nor required minimums for any category.

Interview

Multiple mini interviews (MMI) are canceled and no longer a requirement for admission.

Special Circumstances

An applicant’s unique attributes that may positively impact future professional success are considered on an individual basis. Also considered are potential economic, educational, and/or cultural/environmental factors.

Early Academic Review

Applications with a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or lower will undergo an early screening process for evidence of the candidate’s ability to handle a rigorous upper-division biomedical sciences curriculum. Some candidates will be denied and some will move forward.

Vet Prep Program

This one-year program assists disadvantaged students. Candidates in the regular D.V.M. admissions pool with a qualified disadvantage and an application that presents an ability to handle a rigorous biomedical sciences curriculum (often showing an upward trend in academic coursework/credit load) will be considered for the Vet Prep Program. There is not a separate application – candidates do not apply for this program.

Evaluation Process

The Office of D.V.M. Admissions uses a phased admissions evaluation and notification process.

Diversity Statement

Colorado State University’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Combined Degree Programs welcome all applicants without discrimination. These programs have a long-standing commitment to increasing the number of veterinarians that are racially and ethnically underrepresented, from the LGBTQ community, of socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are first-generation college attendees, hold veteran status, and have disabilities.

We are also committed to providing an accessible and inclusive environment where all learners have access to our programs. The D.V.M. Program works with campus resources to implement approved accommodations for learners with disabilities.

The CSU community is committed to, and embraces, diversity in all forms. All candidates are encouraged to explore diversity resources for students.

Tips for creating a strong application

Demonstrate quality academic performance and prove that you’re ready for the rigor of the D.V.M. program.

When reviewing applications, we take into consideration the quality of the academic program, number and quality of upper level biomedical science courses, ability to carry a full schedule of courses, employment during academic terms, course and degree variety, academic trends, and special circumstances.

Share your experience working with animals and in the veterinary field.

Demonstrate responsibility with animals outside of pet ownership.

Paint a complete picture of who you are.

We value the diverse contributions of each candidate, so demonstrate what makes you unique throughout your application and in the personal essay. Think about veterinary, animal, employment, and research experiences, community or volunteer involvement, awards and honors, etc.

Select references carefully and contact them early.

Ensure the people you choose to write your letters of recommendation really know who you are, and share your educational and career goals with them. Ask them well in advance so they have time to prepare a genuine recommendation. We suggest the following for references: one from a veterinarian, one from an academic source, and one from an employment or personal source. Ultimately, select recommenders with whom you are most comfortable, with at least one being a veterinarian. Recommendations that can speak to both academic and non-academic experiences will provide valuable insights - these can be from faculty, advisors, or supervisors, for example.