How to Get Into Veterinary School in South Africa: Entry Requirements & Career Paths
Are you passionate about animals and dreaming of a career as a veterinarian in South Africa? Becoming a veterinarian is a rewarding yet challenging journey that requires dedication, academic excellence, and a clear understanding of the process.
Why Study Veterinary Science in South Africa?
South Africa offers a unique environment for aspiring veterinarians, with its rich biodiversity, thriving agricultural sector, and growing demand for animal healthcare professionals. The country is home to the only veterinary school in South Africa, located at the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Veterinary Science on the Onderstepoort campus. This prestigious institution is internationally recognized, accredited by bodies like the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) in the UK, and the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC), ensuring your qualification opens doors globally.
Whether you’re drawn to working with pets, livestock, wildlife, or in research, this guide will equip you with everything you need to succeed.
Step 1: Understand the Veterinary School in South Africa
The University of Pretoria: Your Only Option
In South Africa, the University of Pretoria (UP) is the sole institution offering the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) degree, a six-year program that trains veterinarians to the highest standards. Located at the Onderstepoort campus (with the first year at the Hatfield campus), UP’s Faculty of Veterinary Science is ranked among the top veterinary schools globally, placing 43rd in the QS World University Rankings for 2019 and consistently high in subsequent years.
Why Only One School?
The limited number of veterinary schools reflects the specialized nature of the profession and the rigorous standards required. With only about 150 students accepted annually from thousands of applicants, competition is fierce, making preparation critical.
Step 2: Meet the Entry Requirements
To secure a spot in the BVSc program, you must meet both academic and non-academic requirements. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Academic Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- You need an NSC with a Bachelor’s Degree pass.
- Minimum subjects and levels:
- English Home Language or First Additional Language: 60% (Level 5)
- Mathematics: 60% (Level 5)
- Physical Sciences: 60% (Level 5)
- These subjects lay the foundation for the scientific rigor of veterinary studies.
- Admission Point Score (APS)
- The minimum APS is 35, calculated from your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation).
- Example: 70% = 6 points, 80% = 7 points. Aim for high marks in sciences and math to boost your score.
- Grade 11 Results
- Selection is provisional based on your Grade 11 final marks, as Grade 12 results aren’t available during applications. A drop of more than four symbols between Grade 11 and Matric can jeopardize your acceptance.
- National Benchmark Test (NBT)
- You must write the NBT, which includes:
- Academic Literacy
- Quantitative Literacy
- Mathematics
- This test assesses your academic readiness beyond school marks.
- You must write the NBT, which includes:
Non-Academic Requirements
- Veterinary Science Value-Added Form (VSVAF)
- This online form evaluates your exposure to veterinary science and animals. Include:
- Animal experience: Handling pets, farm animals, or wildlife.
- Extracurriculars: Leadership roles, sports, community service.
- Veterinary exposure: Shadowing a vet or volunteering at a clinic.
- A strong VSVAF score can set you apart.
- This online form evaluates your exposure to veterinary science and animals. Include:
- Work Experience
- While not mandatory, hands-on experience with animals (e.g., at farms, shelters, or vet clinics) strengthens your application and shows commitment.
Tips for Success
- Start Early: Focus on science subjects from Grade 10.
- Excel in Grade 11: These marks are your ticket to provisional acceptance.
- Prepare for the NBT: Practice online to boost your scores.
Key Dates
- Application Opens: Typically April 1.
- Closing Date: July 31 (firm deadline—no late applications accepted).
- NBT Deadline: Register by June and write before July.
How to Apply
- Online Application
- Submit via the University of Pretoria’s application portal (www.up.ac.za/apply).
- Pay the non-refundable application fee (around R300).
- Submit Documents
- Certified copies of:
- NSC or Grade 11 results
- ID or passport
- VSVAF
- Upload NBT results once available.
- Certified copies of:
- Selection Process
- Provisional selection is based on Grade 11 marks, NBT scores, and VSVAF.
- Final acceptance depends on Matric results meeting or exceeding provisional offers.
What Makes It Competitive?
With thousands applying for just 150 spots, UP uses a holistic approach. Academic excellence is non-negotiable, but your passion for animals and well-rounded profile matter too.
Step 4: Complete the BVSc Program
Program Structure
- Duration: 6 years full-time.
- Year 1: Hatfield campus—basic sciences (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) and Medical Terminology.
- Years 2–6: Onderstepoort campus—core veterinary disciplines (e.g., Anatomy, Pathology) and practical training.
Key Modules
- Year 2: Anatomy, Microbiology, Physiology.
- Year 3: Infectious Diseases, Pharmacology, Toxicology.
- Year 4: Diagnostics and Therapeutics.
- Year 5: Community Interaction, Electives.
- Year 6: Experiential training in the academic hospital.
Registration with SAVC
- You must register with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) before starting Year 1 and renew annually. This is a legal requirement to practice post-graduation.
Step 5: Fulfill Compulsory Community Service (CCS)
After graduating, all BVSc holders must complete 12 months of Compulsory Community Service (CCS) under the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD). This involves working in underserved areas to improve animal health and public welfare. Only after CCS can you practice independently or pursue further specialization.
Career Paths for Veterinarians in South Africa
A BVSc degree opens diverse opportunities. Here are the top career paths:
- Private Practice
- Treat pets, farm animals, or wildlife in urban or rural clinics.
- Average salary: R497,000/year (Payscale, 2023).
- Veterinary Public Health
- Ensure livestock safety for human consumption.
- Work with government agencies like DALRRD.
- Wildlife Management
- Care for animals in conservation areas, zoos, or game reserves—a growing field in South Africa.
- Research and Academia
- Conduct studies or teach at UP or research institutes.
- Requires postgraduate studies (e.g., MMedVet).
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Develop animal health products or work in sales.
- Animal Welfare
- Collaborate with organizations like the SPCA to improve animal well-being.
Salary Expectations
- Entry-Level: R440,000/year.
- Experienced (10+ years): Up to R604,999/year.
Financing Your Studies
Veterinary school is a significant investment. Explore these options:
- Fundi Loans: Covers tuition, accommodation, and more. Check eligibility at www.fundi.co.za.
- Bursaries: The South African Veterinary Foundation (SAVF) and provincial agriculture departments offer partial funding.
- NSFAS: Limited support for veterinary students—verify eligibility.
Tips to Stand Out
- Gain Experience: Volunteer at shelters or shadow vets.
- Network: Join the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) as a student member.
- Mental Resilience: Veterinary work is demanding—build coping skills early.
FAQs
How long does it take to become a veterinarian in South Africa?
- 6 years for the BVSc + 1 year CCS = 7 years total.
What if I don’t get into UP?
- Consider a Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing (BVetNurs) at UP or study Animal Sciences at other universities (e.g., Stellenbosch), then apply as a graduate.
Can international students apply?
- Yes, but additional requirements (e.g., study permits) apply. Contact UP’s international office.
Conclusion
Getting into veterinary school in South Africa is a competitive but achievable goal with the right preparation. Focus on strong academics, animal experience, and a compelling application to join the ranks of the University of Pretoria’s elite veterinary program. Once qualified, you’ll have a world of career paths to explore, from saving pets to protecting wildlife.
