Your Guide to the Best Veterinary Schools in Canada
Pursuing a career in veterinary medicine in Canada requires top-notch education from accredited institutions. Canadian veterinary schools are known for their rigorous programs, cutting-edge research, and commitment to animal welfare. Below is a curated list of the top veterinary schools in Canada, along with an overview, official website link, and scholarship information.

TOP Veterinary Schools in Canada
1. University of Guelph – Ontario Veterinary College (OVC)
- Overview: Established in 1862, the Ontario Veterinary College is the oldest veterinary school in Canada and one of the top-ranked institutions globally. It offers a robust Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program with state-of-the-art teaching hospitals and extensive research facilities. The college emphasizes hands-on clinical training and offers specialized programs in food animal health, equine medicine, and small animal care.
- Website: Ontario Veterinary College
- Scholarships: OVC provides a variety of financial aid options, including merit-based scholarships, need-based bursaries, and research grants. More details can be found on their scholarships page.
2. University of Calgary – Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM)
- Overview: Founded in 2005, UCVM is one of Canada’s newest veterinary schools but has quickly gained a strong reputation for its community-focused approach and research-intensive curriculum. The program emphasizes rural and agricultural veterinary practice, offering students hands-on learning opportunities in livestock, wildlife, and companion animals. The faculty has strong ties with veterinary clinics, industry leaders, and research institutions.
- Website: UCVM
- Scholarships: UCVM offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs, including entrance scholarships, research fellowships, and need-based assistance. More details can be found on their financial aid page.
3. Université de Montréal – Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire (FMV)
- Overview: Located in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, FMV is the only French-speaking veterinary school in North America. It offers a comprehensive DVM program with advanced training in animal health, biotechnology, and food safety. The faculty is equipped with top-tier research facilities, including a veterinary hospital and diagnostic laboratory, making it a hub for veterinary innovation.
- Website: FMV
- Scholarships: FMV provides financial support through scholarships, research grants, and government-funded bursaries. Detailed information is available on their scholarships page.
4. University of Saskatchewan – Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM)
- Overview: Established in 1963, WCVM serves as the regional veterinary college for Western Canada. The college focuses on rural and agricultural veterinary medicine, offering specialized training in large animal care, wildlife health, and ecosystem sustainability. WCVM’s strong research programs include studies in infectious diseases, animal reproduction, and public health.
- Website: WCVM
- Scholarships: WCVM offers extensive financial support, including entrance scholarships, research funding, and industry-sponsored awards. Learn more on their financial aid page.
5. Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) – University of Prince Edward Island
- Overview: AVC, established in 1986, is a leading veterinary institution in Atlantic Canada. The college is known for its small class sizes, personalized training, and world-class research in aquatic animal health and epidemiology. AVC also operates a teaching hospital that provides high-quality care to companion animals, livestock, and exotic species.
- Website: AVC
- Scholarships: AVC provides financial aid in the form of scholarships, bursaries, and research grants. More details are available on their scholarships page.
Conclusion
Choosing the right veterinary school in Canada is an essential step toward a successful career in animal health. These top institutions provide exceptional education, research opportunities, and hands-on clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for a variety of veterinary careers. Prospective students should explore the available scholarships and financial aid options to help finance their education. Whether your focus is on small animals, livestock, wildlife, or public health, these veterinary schools offer the foundation needed for a fulfilling career in veterinary medicine.

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