VMCAS Quick Start Guide

Last updated

13:28, 1 Aug 2017
Save as PDF

This page applies to: VMCAS

What is VMCAS?

The Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) is sponsored by the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC). This common application simplifies the process of applying to veterinary school. Applicants use VMCAS to apply to the vast majority of AVMA/COE accredited colleges in the United States and abroad, including 29 of the 30 US veterinary institutions, two Canadian, two Scottish, one British, one Irish, one New Zealand, two Australian, and two Caribbean veterinary institutions.

You start by selecting the programs you want to apply to and then you submit one application that is accepted by all programs. Once received by VMCAS, your application and materials go through a verification process before being released to your selected school designations.

Supplemental application deadlines, prerequisite courses, and other aspects of the admissions process differ from school to school. You are responsible for being aware of all instructions provided by VMCAS and associated member institutions. Click here to start your application.

How long does the application process take?

It's important you apply as early as possible since completing your application can be a lengthy process, and since application processing times vary throughout the cycle. Below is a suggested timeline that includes key actions to keep the application process on track. This timeline may need to be adjusted based on individual program deadlines and requirements.

Timeline	Key Actions
Prior to the Start of the Application Process	Research programs you wish to apply to. Pay special attention to: Deadline requirements. Letters of evaluation requirements. Minimum requirements, including prerequisites, standardized tests, supplemental applications, foreign credential evaluations, etc. Complete outstanding courses or other prerequisites. Begin contacting potential evaluators to request a letter of evaluation in support of your application. Begin gathering your demographic and academic information. This will speed up the process of filling out your application.
At Least 3 Months Prior to Application Deadline	Create your account or reapply using an existing account (available only for accounts created in the 2015-2016 cycle and later). Complete the Colleges Attended section. Complete the Evaluations section.
At Least 10-12 Weeks Prior to Application Deadline	Ask your schools to send official transcripts directly to VMCAS. If there are any holds on your account at an institution, resolve them now to avoid delays in sending transcripts. Begin entering coursework into your application. Check in with your evaluators to confirm that they received the evaluation request via e-mail. Begin drafting your essays.
At Least 6-8 Weeks Prior to Application Deadline	Submit and complete your application. Review the Verification process. Monitor your application for receipt of transcripts and letters of evaluation. Follow up on any missing items.
At Least 4-6 Weeks Prior to Application Deadline	Continue monitoring your application until your status is Verified.