Program Overview

Introduction to the Veterinary Gateway Program

The Veterinary Gateway program is designed for students who wish to study veterinary medicine but may not meet the standard entry requirements. This program integrates an additional preparatory year to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine.

Key Information

• Qualification: BVetMed (Hons)
• UCAS Code: D190
• Institution Code: RVET R84
• Study Mode: Six years full-time
• UK Tuition Fees: £9,790 for the 2026 academic year
• Course Location: Camden, Hawkshead

Course Outline

The program focuses on developing analytical, problem-solving, and practical skills in biological sciences. It aims to improve study, team working, and communication skills and introduces students to animal handling and husbandry, primarily focusing on farm animals. Upon successful completion of the preparatory year, students automatically progress to the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine degree program.

Accreditation

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is fully accredited by the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and the UK's Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). This accreditation allows graduates to practice in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Entry Requirements

To be considered for the Veterinary Gateway program, applicants must meet specific non-academic requirements, including being a UK/Irish national resident in the UK, having studied at a UK state school, and never having attended university. Academic requirements include achieving CCC in three A-Level subjects, including Biology, Chemistry, and one other subject, or equivalent qualifications.

Widening Participation Criteria

Applicants must score a minimum of 15 points by fulfilling one or more of the following criteria:

• Living in an area with a low Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) score
• Having a low household income
• Being a care leaver
• Attending a school with an RVC contextual flag
• Having parents with no higher education qualifications
• Being a refugee

Academic Qualifications

The minimum academic requirements include:

• A-Levels: CCC in Biology, Chemistry, and one other subject
• Welsh Baccalaureate: Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales with grade C, plus two A-Levels in Biology and Chemistry
• Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers: Advanced Highers at grade C or above in Biology and Chemistry, plus 5 Highers at grade C or above
• International Baccalaureate: 444 at Higher Level in Biology, Chemistry, and one other subject
• GCSEs: A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4/C, including Combined Science, English Language, and Mathematics

Work Experience

While not required, work experience in veterinary practice or other animal environments is desirable. This can include kennels, catteries, animal shelters, farms, stables, pet shops, or wildlife parks.

Interviews

All applicants must attend an interview if invited. Interviews are typically held between January and March, and applicants must ensure they are available during this period.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for the 2025/27 academic year are £9,790 for UK students. Fees are subject to increase each academic year.

Course-Related Costs

The following costs are included in the fees:

• Student membership of the British Veterinary Association
• Access to essential books and journals
• IT equipment and printing allowance
• Annual membership of the College gym

The following costs are not included in the fees:

• Specialist clothing and equipment (£600 for the whole course)
• Travel to placements
• Board and lodging for some placements
• Accommodation and living costs

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue a wide range of careers in veterinary medicine, including small animal practices, mixed practices, equine practices, farm environments, wildlife conservation, military support, industry, research, government, and academia. The RVC's accreditation status allows graduates to practice in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand without additional qualifications.