If you know that you want to be a vet in the future, it is important to make the academic choices that will increase your chance of success! If you’re about to choose your subjects and want to know which A-Levels you need to be a vet, hopefully this blog will help you make the right decision.

Which A-Level subjects should you take?

Chemistry

A large proportion of veterinary science courses require you to have a chemistry A-Level so it is extremely important that you choose this subject. Chemistry is one of the more difficult A-Level subjects, but it can be extremely interesting and will prepare you well for certain elements of your veterinary science degree.

Biology

Biology is another A-Level subject that is frequently required to get onto a veterinary science degree. This makes sense when you think about it, because the day-to-day requirements of a vet are dependent on biological understanding, particularly of animal bodies. We would definitely recommend choosing biology if you are wondering what A-Levels you need to be a vet.

Maths

While it is not essential, maths is highly valued by universities, particularly if you are embarking on a scientific degree such as veterinary science. It is not essential that you take maths, but it works well in combination with chemistry and biology.

Physics

Physics is another A-Level that is often required to become a vet. Again, although it is not required by universities, it does demonstrate a broader scientific understanding and works well in combination with chemistry and biology. Really, it comes down to whether you would prefer to do maths or physics! Or, if you feel like you can handle it, you can always opt to take all four subjects – make sure you get advice from your teachers or school careers service first.

What grades do you need?

Veterinary science courses are an extremely competitive and only available at select universities, so you will need to get high grades to be admitted.

Typically, taking a combination of biology, chemistry and either maths or physics is the best route for success. The grades needed to get on the course will vary depending on the university so you should take a look at individual course pages before deciding where to apply, or whether to pursue this path at all.

Most universities will expect you to have at least three relevant ‘A’ grades (AAA) in order to be accepted onto their veterinary science course.

Keep an eye on the blog for more careers advice and information about choosing to study veterinary science at university.