What Qualifications Do You Need To Be a Vet?
If you have your heart set on working with animals, it helps to know that the qualifications for vet school are mostly earned in an exam hall. GCSEs, A Levels and, for some people, resits all come before a single day of veterinary study, so knowing what each stage asks of you makes revision far easier to plan.
Below, we answer the questions people most often ask about the exams on the way to becoming a vet, from choosing subjects to what happens if a result goes wrong. Entry rules differ between universities, so treat this as a starting point and check the details for each vet school you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which exams do I need to pass before I can study to be a vet?
At MME Exams, we know the full journey can look long when you first map it out, so it is worth seeing the order clearly. The usual path runs from GCSEs to A Levels (or an Access to HE Diploma), then animal work experience, a veterinary degree and finally registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
The exams sit at the start of that path. If you want an overview of what education do you need to be a vet, including the degree and registration that follow, a full careers page is a helpful place to begin.
What GCSE grades do vet schools usually ask for?
This varies more than people expect. Pass Learn says vet schools typically want at least five GCSEs at grade 7 or above, while Pass My GCSE says grades are usually 6 or above. The National Careers Service lists a usual minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English, maths and science.
Because veterinary medicine is so competitive, universities often look at your whole GCSE profile, so aiming high in every exam is sensible. Always check the exact entry criteria for each course.
Which GCSE subjects matter most?
Maths, English and Science are the core subjects. Biology and Chemistry, or Combined Science that covers both, are strongly preferred by vet schools. If you are still deciding what GCSEs should I take to become a vet, it is worth reading up before your options are fixed.
Some subjects are helpful without being required. History, English Literature and Economics can build the analytical and writing skills that support your studies later on.
When can I sit or resit my GCSEs?
Maths and English GCSEs can be sat in May or November, which gives you two chances a year. Science GCSEs are sat in the May/June exam window.
If your grades fall short of what vet schools ask for, Pass Learn recommends resitting before you apply through UCAS. Resitting is also an option for adults who need to meet the entry requirements, and missing GCSEs usually need to be resat or completed before moving on to A Levels or other qualifications.
Which A Levels should I revise for?
Chemistry is the one subject every UK vet school asks for, and most expect at least an A. Biology is required by the vast majority. For a third subject, Physics is a strong choice and Maths is a solid alternative, while other sciences are widely accepted.
Checking the A Level subjects needed for vet school before you enrol means your revision effort goes into the exams that really count.
What A Level grades will I need?
Most UK vet schools make offers based on AAA, and Pass A Level notes that some expect A*AA. Universities use A Level results to judge your academic ability, scientific understanding and problem-solving, so these exams carry a lot of weight in your application.
With grades that high, steady revision across the two years of the course matters more than a last-minute rush before the exam season.
Can I resit an A Level if a grade slips?
Yes. A Level resits usually take place in the summer exam series, and some exam boards offer autumn options too. Adults can also study A Levels to meet vet degree requirements, and online A Level courses are available if you are fitting study around work.
If you are planning a resit, find out early which series your exam board uses so you can build a realistic revision timetable.
Is there a route without sitting A Level exams?
An Access to HE Diploma is a Level 3 alternative aimed at adults who did not follow the sixth-form route. The Veterinary Science and Zoology diploma covers biology, chemistry, animal science and research skills, and it is fully coursework-based with no end-of-year exams. It can take as little as six months, studied online at your own pace with tutor support.
The catch is that only some vet schools accept it, and those that do usually expect a distinction profile with a strong focus on science modules. Pass A Level also notes that some relevant BTEC qualifications may be considered, but acceptance is limited and varies by university.
Are there any tests or interviews after my exams?
Yes. According to the National Careers Service, entry is highly competitive and most universities interview applicants and use screening tests. You will need to show that you meet the academic requirements, understand the role, are highly motivated and have relevant work experience. Their veterinary career guide explains what the job involves, which is useful preparation for those conversations.
Hands-on experience with animals is expected too, so try to start early, during your GCSE and A Level years, and keep a reflective record of what you learn.
Where can I book exams or find courses as an adult?
If you are studying outside school, you can browse the Pass Learn website for online GCSE and A Level courses, private candidate exams and resits, as well as Access to HE Diplomas. Exams are sat at a UK-wide network of registered centres.
Once your exams are behind you, the veterinary degree itself usually lasts five to six years. It is worth reading about funding a veterinary degree early, as GOV.UK explains the Tuition Fee Loan, the Maintenance Loan and the need to reapply each year.
Every exam on this route is a step you can prepare for. Choose your subjects with care, plan your revision around the exam windows, use resits if you need them, and keep checking each vet school’s entry requirements as you go. With a clear plan, the exams become much more manageable.
MME Exams Team
We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.
