Vet school is expensive, and scholarship information online is scattered and often out of date. So I put every national scholarship I could find for pre-vet and vet students on one page. Each listing links to the sponsor's own website, and I check them every month. Tell the filter where you are in school and it will show you what you can apply for.
83 scholarships and programsEvery link goes to the sponsor's own pageChecked November 2, 2026, updated monthly
Jump to:Pre-vet scholarshipsVet school scholarshipsService and loan repaymentTipsFAQ
Scholarships for high school seniors and pre-vet undergrads
For students who plan to apply to vet school. Some also take high school seniors who are headed into an animal science or pre-vet major.
- $500Open now
Vince's Pre-Veterinary Student Scholarship
Vince Kotchian Test Prep
U.S. undergrads in animal science or a similar program who plan to go to vet school, with a 3.33 GPA or higher. You send an original poem about animals instead of an essay.
Opens: October 20, 2026. Deadline: October 15, 2027
- 2 awards a year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000 plus conference travelOpen now
Farm Credit VIP Scholarship
MANRRS and Farm Credit
Offered through MANRRS, the national society for minorities in agriculture, natural resources, and related sciences. Check the page for eligibility. Includes travel to the national MANRRS conference.
Deadline: November 16, 2026
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in December
Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship
National Pork Industry Foundation
College students planning a career in the pork industry.
Last deadline: December 12, 2025. The next date is not posted yet.
- 10 a year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Varies by awardOpen now
National FFA Scholarships
National FFA Organization
FFA members who are high school seniors, and FFA alumni in college. One application puts you in the running for all of the sponsored scholarships, nearly $2.5 million in total.
Opens: November 1, 2026. Deadline: January 14, 2027
- FFA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $26,500Usually due in January
Charles B. Wang Excellence in Equine and Agricultural Involvement Scholarship
American Quarter Horse Foundation
AQHA or AQHYA members with a 3.5 GPA or higher and leadership in equine or agriculture activities who do not show in AQHA-approved shows. High school seniors and college students can apply. Past AQHF scholarship winners are not eligible. A four-year scholarship.
Deadline: January 15 each year
- AQHA or AQHYA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $13,000Usually due in January
Charles B. Wang Farm and Ranch Heritage Scholarship
American Quarter Horse Foundation
Full-time undergrads from a farm or ranch background who are AQHA or AQHYA members and do not show in AQHA-approved shows. You must keep a 3.0 GPA to keep the award. Past AQHF scholarship winners are not eligible. A four-year scholarship.
Deadline: January 15 each year
- AQHA or AQHYA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,500Opens February 1
Arabian Horse Foundation General Scholarships
The Arabian Horse Foundation
Students involved with Arabian horses. Check the page for eligibility rules.
Opens: February 1, 2027. Deadline: April 1, 2027
- 27 awards in 2026
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,000Open now
JRA College Scholarship
Red Angus Association of America
Junior Red Angus members who are graduating high school seniors or current college freshmen. Any major.
Deadline: February 15, 2027
- At least 5 awards
- Junior Red Angus membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000Open now
American Paint Horse Foundation Academic Scholarships
American Paint Horse Foundation
High school seniors, or students within two years of graduating, who have been AjPHA or APHA members for the past three years. Any major.
Deadline: March 1, 2027
- Renewable
- More than 50 a year
- AjPHA or APHA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Full tuition, fees, books, and room and boardUsually due in March
USDA 1890 National Scholars Program
U.S. Department of Agriculture
U.S. citizens with a 3.0 GPA or higher who are accepted to or attending one of the 19 historically Black 1890 land-grant universities and study agriculture or a related field, including animal science and pre-vet. High school seniors and current college students can apply. Includes a summer USDA internship.
Last deadline: March 8, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- Renewable
- U.S. citizens
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in April
National Dairy Shrine Pre-Vet Scholarship (sponsored by Zoetis)
National Dairy Shrine
Third- and fourth-year undergrads who plan a veterinary career in large animal production agriculture.
Deadline: March 1 to April 15 each spring
- 1 award
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in April
NJSA Rolling Into Success Scholarship
National Junior Swine Association
NJSA members ages 17 to 21 enrolled in an agriculture-related college program.
Deadline: April 15 each year
- 4 awards
- NJSA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,500Usually due in April
National Dairy Shrine Maurice E. Core Freshman Scholarship
National Dairy Shrine
College freshmen at four-year schools majoring in dairy science or another animal industry field.
Deadline: March 1 to April 15 each spring
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,500Usually due in April
National Dairy Shrine Klussendorf/McKown Scholarship
National Dairy Shrine
Students finishing their first, second, or third year at a two- or four-year college in dairy science, animal science, agribusiness, or a related major.
Deadline: March 1 to April 15 each spring
- 7 awards
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000Usually due in April
Christina Strickland Scholarship
American Dairy Goat Association
ADGA members accepted to or enrolled in college. Preference goes to undergrads in biological sciences, genetic research, education, or veterinary science.
Deadline: April 1 each year
- ADGA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Amount not listedUsually due in April
Charles and Judy Iager Scholarship
Holstein Foundation
U.S. citizens who are Holstein Association USA adult or junior members and full-time college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors with dairy or agriculture experience and career goals. The same application also enters you for the George Miller and Raymond LeBlanc scholarships.
Deadline: April 1 each year
- Holstein Association USA membership
- U.S. citizens
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,000Usually due in April
Sagebrush Circuit, Lew and JoAnn Eklund Educational Scholarship
Appaloosa Youth Foundation
College juniors, seniors, and graduate students in an equine-related field with a 3.5 GPA or higher who are ApHC or AYA members.
Last deadline: April 15, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 1 award
- ApHC or AYA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Amount not listedUsually due in April
Purina Animal Nutrition Scholarship
Purina Animal Nutrition
High school seniors, high school graduates, and current undergrads with livestock, equine, or poultry experience. Any major.
Last deadline: April 16, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in May
IWLA National Conservation Scholarship
Izaak Walton League of America
Rising college juniors and seniors majoring in conservation or an environment-related field, including wildlife, fisheries, and natural resource management.
Deadline: January 1 to May 15 each year
- 2 a year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Varies by awardUsually due in May
Angus Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships
Angus Foundation
Junior Angus (NJAA) members. One application covers the foundation's undergraduate and graduate scholarships, which award more than $190,000 a year.
Last deadline: May 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- NJAA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- At least $5,000 a year in totalUsually due in June
Alex Mooney Memorial Scholarship
Morgan Horse Foundation
Undergrads in academic study or professional development. Check the application for major and membership rules.
Last deadline: June 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,150 to $2,300Usually due in June
Alpha Zeta Foundation Scholarships
Alpha Zeta Foundation of America
Active Alpha Zeta student members with at least two semesters left. Members heading to a graduate degree must show admission to an agriculture or veterinary medicine program.
Last deadline: June 5, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- At least 6 awards
- Alpha Zeta membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000 to $1,500Usually due in June
Native Agriculture and Food Systems Scholarship
First Nations Development Institute
Tribally affiliated undergraduate or graduate students with a 2.75 GPA or higher in an agriculture-related field, such as animal husbandry or wildlife, who are committed to Native food systems.
Last deadline: June 16, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 20 to 25 awards
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000Usually due in July
Lineweaver Scholarship
American Jersey Cattle Association
Undergrads with at least one year done at a four-year school in dairy science, animal science, or dairy products. Based on need, grades, and leadership.
Last deadline: July 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- Renewable
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in July
US Equestrian Higher Education Equestrian Scholarship
US Equestrian
High school seniors entering college full time who are US Equestrian competing members or subscribers and stay involved with horses in college. Any major.
Last deadline: July 31, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 2 awards
- US Equestrian membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $10,000 a year across 5 awardsUsually due in July
John D. Spurling OBE Scholarship
AKC Humane Fund
Full-time students at U.S. schools in fields that advance responsible pet ownership, such as veterinary medicine, animal behavior, and training. Paid to your school.
Last deadline: July 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 5 a year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,000Usually due in July
Cedarcrest Farms Scholarship
American Jersey Cattle Association
Undergraduate or graduate students working toward large animal veterinary practice or a dairy career.
Last deadline: July 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $500 to $1,000Usually due in August
AGJA Scholarships
American Gelbvieh Junior Association
Active AGJA members who are high school seniors or college students no older than 21. Any major.
Last deadline: August 3, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 8 named awards
- AGJA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in September
MGM Memorial Scholarship
Hereford Youth Foundation of America
National Junior Hereford Association members working toward a veterinary medicine degree, including pre-vet students.
Deadline: Fall scholarship deadline: September 1
- NJHA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000 for the national winnerSee official page
Dr. James Earl Kennamer Scholarship
National Wild Turkey Federation
Graduating high school seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher who are NWTF members, hold a hunting license, and support wild turkey conservation. Any major.
Deadline: Deadlines vary by state. The national winner is picked by April 1, 2027
- NWTF membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000See official page
White Fox Ranch Scholarship
American Shorthorn Association
Junior Shorthorn (AJSA) members who are high school seniors or undergrads studying agriculture or veterinary medicine.
Deadline: The application will be posted in 2027
- 2 awards
- AJSA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,500See official page
CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship
National Cattlemen's Foundation
Graduating high school seniors and full-time undergrads who plan a career in the beef industry. You or your family must be NCBA members.
Deadline: Applications for 2027 are closed. Check the page for the next cycle
- 10 a year
- NCBA membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Amount not listedSee official page
Oxbow Undergraduate Scholarship
Oxbow Animal Health
Full-time students at U.S. schools, with at least 12 credits done, in animal science, life science, veterinary science, or a similar major, who want a career with companion or exotic animals.
Deadline: The 2026 application is posted. Check the page for the deadline
Checked Nov 2, 2026
Scholarships for vet school students
For students already admitted to or enrolled in a DVM or VMD program. Many are limited to a certain year of vet school, so check the year before you apply.
- $20,000Open now
Chewy Veterinary Leaders Program
AAVMC and Chewy Health
Second-year students from backgrounds with limited access to veterinary careers, interested in small animal medicine, with financial need, at a U.S. AAVMC member school.
Opens: October 1, 2026. Deadline: November 4, 2026
- 15 awards
- School nomination required
- 2nd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000Open now
Patricia M. Lowrie Organizational Health Scholarship
AAVMC
Vet students who show promise as future leaders and have built a culture of belonging in an organization, at a U.S. or international AAVMC member school.
Opens: October 1, 2026. Deadline: November 4, 2026
- 1 award
- School nomination required
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000Usually due in November
Merck Animal Health/AAAP Foundation Poultry Veterinary Student Scholarships
Merck Animal Health and the AAAP Foundation
Second- and third-year vet students focused on poultry health.
Deadline: November 1 each year
- 5 awards in 2026
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $5,500 stipendOpen now
Morris Animal Foundation Veterinary Student Scholars
Morris Animal Foundation
Vet students anywhere in the world doing a three- to four-month mentored research project. Each school can nominate up to two students per round. There are two rounds a year, and the foundation says dates can change.
Opens: October 7, 2026. Deadline: November 25, 2026
- School nomination required
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000Open now
Merck Animal Health Scholarship
Merck Animal Health and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
Second- and third-year students in good standing at an AVMA-accredited school in the U.S., Canada, or the Caribbean. Based on grades, leadership, and financial need. When I checked, the sponsor page listed these dates but also said the cycle was closed, so confirm on the official page before you apply.
Opens: November 1, 2026. Deadline: November 30, 2026
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $3,000 to $10,000Open now
Merck Animal Health Student Innovation Award
Merck Animal Health and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
Final-year students at AVMA-accredited schools in the U.S. and Canada whose innovation led to a project or product that benefits the profession, recognized by their school's faculty.
Opens: November 1, 2026. Deadline: November 30, 2026
- 3 awards
- Final year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000Usually due in December
AASV Foundation and Merck Animal Health Veterinary Student Scholarships
AASV Foundation and Merck Animal Health
Second- and third-year AASV student members at accredited schools in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, South America, or the Caribbean. Past AASV or AABP scholarship winners are not eligible.
Deadline: December 31 each year
- 5 awards in 2026
- AASV student membership
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $3,000 in totalOpen now
Jim Steere Memorial Veterinary Student Scholarship
Ride and Tie Association
Any vet student, including international students, who writes an essay of up to 1,000 words on a Ride and Tie topic.
Deadline: January 15, 2027
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $500, plus $500 more if you attend an AVC meetingUsually due in January
AVC Foundation Externship Grant
AVC Foundation
Vet students with financial need who are interested in beef production medicine and set up an externship with an AVC member.
Deadline: The last window ran November 25, 2025 to January 31, 2026. The next window is not posted yet
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $600Usually due in January
AAV Student Externship Scholarship
Association of Avian Veterinarians
AAV student members entering their clinical year who plan an avian externship or research project in the next 12 months.
Deadline: January 31 each year
- AAV student membership
- Entering clinical year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $500Usually due in February
AAWV Wildlife Veterinary Externship Grants
American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians
AAWV student members at an accredited vet school doing an externship with a strong wildlife focus.
Deadline: Accepted each January and February
- Up to 10 a year
- AAWV membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $1,500 in travelOpen now
Veterinary Public Practice Externship Travel Award
American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine
Third- and fourth-year students at any AVMA-accredited school doing a for-credit externship in public health, food safety, epidemiology, or One Health.
Deadline: March 1, 2027
- 5 per cycle, 1 per school
- 3rd or 4th year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $100,000Usually due in March
ASPCA Veterinary Scholarship Program
ASPCA
Vet students at an AVMA-accredited U.S. program, with financial need, who commit to at least three years of animal welfare work after graduation.
Deadline: Applications for the 2027-28 school year are not open yet. The page has a sign-up for the opening date
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000 plus conference registration and up to $500 of travelUsually due in March
FelineVMA/EveryCat Health Foundation Scholarship
FelineVMA and EveryCat Health Foundation
Third- and fourth-year students at AVMA-accredited schools in the U.S. or Canada interested in feline practice or research.
Deadline: The 2026 deadline has passed. The 2027 date is not posted yet
- 2 awards
- 3rd or 4th year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Amount not listedUsually due in March
AAFV Scholarship
American Association of Fish Veterinarians
AAFV members who are vet students, interns, residents, or new graduates within one year, interested in fish and aquatic animal medicine. You send the form, a CV, and two letters.
Deadline: Must be received by March 1 each year
- AAFV membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- About $1,500 in conference costsUsually due in April
AAV Veterinary Student Conference Scholarship
Association of Avian Veterinarians
AAV student members in an AVMA-accredited program. Covers registration, one lab, four nights of lodging, and up to $500 of travel.
Last deadline: April 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 1 award
- AAV student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $75,000Usually due in May
Coyote Rock Ranch Veterinary Scholarships
The Foundation for the Horse
Fourth-year students headed into equine practice who are National AAEP Student members, chosen on grades, leadership, and long-term goals. Support letters from AAEP members and clinical instructors are required.
Deadline: Opens by April 1 and is due May 15 each year
- 4 awards
- AAEP student membership
- 4th year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- About $9,500 to $11,000Usually due in May
Amstutz Scholarship
AABP Foundation
AABP student members at an accredited school who plan to go into bovine practice in the U.S. or Canada. Past winners are not eligible. The sponsor's own pages list different amounts, so confirm on the official page.
Deadline: Due in late May. The next date is not posted yet
- AABP student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000 to $10,000Usually due in May
Foundation for the Horse Equine Scholarships
The Foundation for the Horse
Third- and fourth-year students committed to equine medicine. Includes the Zoetis Foundation (10 at $10,000), Merck Animal Health (3 at $10,000), and Anne and Richard Stirlen (3 at $10,000) scholarships, plus nine named $5,000 awards in areas like theriogenology, surgery, and leadership.
Deadline: Opens by April 1 and is due May 15 each year
- About 25 awards
- AAEP student membership
- 3rd or 4th year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000 to $10,000Usually due in May
Merck Animal Health Bovine Veterinary Student Recognition Award
AABP Foundation and Merck Animal Health
AABP student members interested in dairy or beef medicine at a U.S. or Canadian vet school, usually applying in their second or third year. A faculty sponsor letter is required. The sponsor's own pages list different amounts, so confirm on the official page.
Deadline: May 29 each year at 5 pm Eastern
- AABP student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000Usually due in May
National Cattlemen's Foundation Veterinary Student Scholarship
National Cattlemen's Foundation, run by the AABP Foundation
AABP student members who have finished or are finishing their second or third year and are interested in beef cattle medicine.
Deadline: May 29 each year at 5 pm Eastern
- 1 award
- AABP student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $7,500Usually due in May
Zoetis Foundation Scholarship (AABP)
AABP Foundation and Zoetis Foundation
U.S. citizens who are AABP student members at an accredited school, graduating in 2027, who plan to practice bovine medicine.
Last deadline: May 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 16 awards in 2026
- AABP student membership
- U.S. citizens
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $3,000Usually due in May
Dawn Stewart Memorial Scholarship
National Alpaca Foundation
U.S. citizens in their second, third, or fourth year of vet school who are interested in camelid medicine, at a U.S. school with an alpaca program or alpaca health classes. You mail a resume, two reference letters, a transcript, and an essay of up to 1,000 words. Paid to your school.
Last deadline: May 15, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- U.S. citizens
- 2nd to 4th year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000Usually due in June
HumaneVMA Compassionate Care Veterinary Student Scholarships
Humane Veterinary Medical Association
HumaneVMA student members (membership is free) in their first, second, or third year at an AVMA-accredited school in the U.S., Canada, the UK, or the Caribbean, committed to animal welfare and access to care.
Last deadline: June 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 5 awards
- 1st to 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $10,000Usually due in June
FelineVMA/Merck Animal Health Scholarship for Academic Excellence in Feline Healthcare
Feline Veterinary Medical Association and Merck Animal Health
Second- and third-year students in good standing at AVMA-accredited schools who are dedicated to feline medicine. A mentor letter is required.
Last deadline: June 15, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 2 awards
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000Usually due in July
Dr. Gregory D. Bossart Memorial One Health Scholarship
One Health Commission
Students in DVM, MPH, MD, MSc, PhD, or similar programs anywhere in the world with a One Health project that is not finished yet. Admitted students who haven't started can apply.
Last deadline: July 31, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 1 award
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Travel costs and free registrationUsually due in August
USAHA/AAVLD Veterinary Student Scholarship
USAHA and AAVLD
U.S. vet students interested in public practice or diagnostic laboratory medicine. Covers travel to the joint annual meeting.
Last deadline: August 24, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $15,000Usually due in September
AVMA/AVMF Scholarship for Veterans
AVMA and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
U.S. citizens who are military veterans or on active duty for training, in their first, second, or third year at an AVMA-accredited school, with a leadership role at their university. The sponsor's own pages list different amounts, so confirm on the official page.
Last deadline: September 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 10 awards
- U.S. citizens
- 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000Usually due in September
Embrace Pet Insurance Scholarship
Embrace Pet Insurance and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
Third- and fourth-year students at a U.S. accredited school who plan to work in shelter medicine after graduation.
Last deadline: September 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 5 awards
- 3rd or 4th year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $4,400Usually due in September
Hoveida Family Foundation Scholarship in Research
Hoveida Family Foundation and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
Vet students in the U.S. in good standing who are interested in a research career.
Last deadline: September 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 1 award
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $2,500Usually due in September
Dechra Veterinary Products Veterinary Scholarship
Dechra and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
U.S. citizens in their clinical year who plan to practice in the U.S. Awards are split across equine sports medicine, internal medicine, dermatology, and anesthesia, surgery, and critical care.
Last deadline: September 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- Up to 20 awards
- U.S. citizens
- Clinical year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000Usually due in September
Auxiliary to the AVMA Legacy Endowed Scholarship
Auxiliary to the AVMA, through AVMF
U.S. citizens in their second or third year at an AVMA-accredited school who hold a leadership role in an organization.
Last deadline: September 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- U.S. citizens
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000Usually due in September
Durvet Animal Health Future Food Animal Veterinarian Scholarship
Durvet and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
Second- and third-year students at a U.S. accredited school who plan to work in food animal, mixed animal, or rural practice.
Last deadline: September 30, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 2 a year
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $35,000 a year, up to $140,000 in totalUsually due in October
Mike Dunn, DVM Veterinary Student Scholarship
VIN Foundation
Students entering a U.S. vet school whose total tuition and fees are $170,000 or less and who are committed to companion animal practice. International students at U.S. schools can apply. Paid to your school for tuition and fees. The 2027 cycle filled its 300-application cap.
Last deadline: October 1, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- Renewable
- 2 awards
- Incoming first-years
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $25,000Usually due in October
Zoetis Foundation/AVMF Veterinary Student Scholarship
Zoetis Foundation and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
Second- and third-year students at an AVMA-accredited school in the U.S., Canada, or the Caribbean who plan to practice in the U.S. Based on grades and leadership, and financial need may count.
Last deadline: October 31, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
- 70 awards
- 2nd or 3rd year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $15,000 plus travelSee official page
WSAVA Michael J. Day Scholarship
World Small Animal Veterinary Association
Vet students doing 8 to 12 weeks of research on small companion animal infectious disease, vaccines, or immunology, with a supervisor.
Deadline: 2026 applications are closed. 2027 dates are not announced yet
- 1 a year
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $5,000See official page
James H. Bias Scholarship
AABP Foundation
AABP student members from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds with leadership experience and a passion for beef or dairy medicine.
Deadline: See the AABP scholarships page
- AABP student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000 to $3,000See official page
Latinx VMA Student Scholarships
Latinx Veterinary Medical Association
Vet students. Check the page for eligibility. Awards include six $3,000 Diamante scholarships and four $1,000 Oro and Plata scholarships.
Deadline: The 2025 cycle is closed. 2026 dates are not posted yet
- 10 awards
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000 to $2,000See official page
AABP Foundation Dairy and Theriogenology Awards
AABP Foundation
AABP student members. Includes the Hunter Lang Dairy Welfare Scholarship ($2,000), the Francis Welcome Future Dairy Practitioners Scholarship ($2,000), and the Edwin Robertson Memorial Theriogenology Scholarship ($1,000).
Deadline: See the AABP scholarships page
- AABP student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $50 to $1,500 per awardSee official page
SAVMA Awards, Grants, and Scholarships
Student American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
Vet students, mostly SAVMA members. More than 30 small awards, including the International Veterinary Experience Award (12 at $1,000), the One Health Grand Challenge (2 at $1,500), the I Am First essay contest for first-generation students (5 at $250), and the LGBTQ+ Wellbeing Grant ($500).
Deadline: Deadlines vary by award, and several fall between November 2026 and July 2027
- SAVMA membership for most awards
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $1,000See official page
USAHA Student Scholarship Award (through AAWV)
AAWV and USAHA
Active AAWV members interested in regulatory or public practice who can present at the USAHA annual meeting. AAWV picks one applicant to nominate to USAHA.
Deadline: Varies by year. Contact the AAWV secretary
- AAWV membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $500See official page
AASV Foundation Swine Externship Grants
AASV Foundation
AASV student members doing at least a two-week externship in a swine practice or a mixed practice with a large swine component.
Deadline: See the official page
- AASV student membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- $500 and a plaqueSee official page
AAWV Student Scholarship Award
American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians
AAWV members whose abstract is accepted for an oral presentation at the annual Wildlife Disease Association conference.
Deadline: See the official page
- AAWV membership
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Amount not listedSee official page
Oxbow Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
Oxbow Animal Health
Full-time vet students at a U.S. school who focus on rabbits, guinea pigs, and other exotic pets.
Deadline: The 2026 application is posted. Check the page for the deadline
Checked Nov 2, 2026
Service scholarships and loan repayment
These pay for vet school or your loans in exchange for service, such as time in the Army or practice in an area that needs vets.
- Up to $50,000 a year toward your loansOpen now
NIH Extramural Loan Repayment Program
National Institutes of Health
Researchers with a DVM or similar doctoral degree, including trainees and fellows, who are not NIH employees and commit to research in NIH mission areas. This repays loans. It is not a scholarship for current students.
Opens: September 1, 2026. Deadline: November 19, 2026
- U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $40,000 a year plus a paid trainee jobUsually due in January
Adel A. Malak Scholarship Program
USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service
Vet students with at least two years left, enrolled in or accepted to an AVMA-accredited U.S. program, who agree to work two years for FSIS for each year funded. The FSIS page lists $15,000 a year and the USAJOBS posting lists $40,000, so confirm the current amount.
Last deadline: January 5, 2026. The next date is not posted yet.
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $20,000 a year in college, up to $40,000 a year in vet schoolUsually due in April
Saul T. Wilson, Jr. Internship Program
USDA APHIS Veterinary Services
U.S. citizens who have finished two years of a pre-vet or biomedical curriculum, or are enrolled in or accepted to an accredited vet school. Includes paid work for APHIS during breaks, and you owe a year of full-time APHIS work for each school year funded.
Deadline: Opens on USAJOBS for about two weeks each spring
- U.S. citizens
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Up to $40,000 a year toward your loansUsually due in April
Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP)
USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Veterinarians, after graduation, who agree to at least three years of service in a USDA-designated veterinary shortage area. This repays loans. It is not a scholarship for current students.
Deadline: The 2027 application period opens in February 2027 and closes in April 2027
Checked Nov 2, 2026
- Full tuition plus a $2,999 monthly stipendOpen year-round
U.S. Army Health Professions Scholarship Program (Veterinary)
U.S. Army
Students enrolled in or applying to an accredited vet school in the U.S. or Puerto Rico who will be U.S. citizens by commissioning and qualify as Army officers. Covers up to four years of tuition, books, equipment, and fees, in exchange for military service.
Deadline: none, applications are accepted year-round
- U.S. citizens
Checked Nov 2, 2026
No scholarships match those filters.
How to win more vet scholarships
- Apply for the small awards too. Several $1,000 scholarships add up to the same money as one big one, and you can usually reuse much of your writing.
- Put every deadline on a calendar now. Most of these come around once a year. Use the Add to calendar button on any listing with a posted deadline and you'll get a reminder two weeks before it's due.
- Read the eligibility rules twice. Many awards require membership in a group like FFA, 4-H, or your school's SAVMA chapter, a minimum GPA, U.S. citizenship, or a nomination from your vet school. Five minutes of checking saves you hours on an application you can't win.
- Write one strong story, then fit it to each prompt. Most applications ask some version of why you want to be a vet. Build one honest, specific story about the animals and people that got you here, then rework it for each prompt instead of pasting the same essay everywhere.
- Ask your vet school's financial aid office. Every vet school also gives its own scholarships, and many aren't posted publicly. Ask what's available and when to apply.
Your essay does most of the work. Lauren Hammond on my team edits VMCAS personal statements, and consultations are free. See VMCAS personal statement examples and work with Lauren.
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Paying for vet school beyond scholarships
Federal loans changed on July 1, 2026
New borrowers can no longer take out Grad PLUS loans. Veterinary medicine (DVM) counts as a professional degree, so federal Direct Loans for vet students are now capped at $50,000 a year and $200,000 in total, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Students who were already enrolled and had a federal loan for their program before July 1, 2026 can keep borrowing under the old rules for up to three more academic years. Parts of the new rules have been challenged in court, so confirm the current limits with your vet school's financial aid office.
For most students, that means scholarships matter more than they used to, because federal loans may no longer cover the full cost of attendance.
Service scholarships and loan repayment
If you're open to serving in the military or working where vets are needed most, the programs in the service section of this list can cover tuition or pay down your loans. Each one comes with a service commitment, so read the terms carefully before you sign anything.
My own pre-vet scholarship
I run a yearly scholarship for pre-vet undergrads: two $500 awards, and instead of an essay you send an original poem about animals. Read the rules and apply.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get scholarships for vet school?
Yes. National foundations, veterinary associations, animal health companies, and breed and livestock groups all fund scholarships for vet students, and every vet school gives its own scholarships too. This page lists the national ones, with links to each sponsor's official page.
Does FAFSA pay for vet school?
The FAFSA is how you qualify for federal student loans for vet school. Since July 1, 2026, those loans are capped at $50,000 a year and $200,000 in total for professional students, which includes veterinary medicine, and new borrowers can't take out Grad PLUS loans (U.S. Department of Education). Your vet school may also use the FAFSA to award its own need-based aid, so file it either way.
Is there a way to go to vet school for free?
Full rides are rare. The closest options are service scholarships, such as the Army's Health Professions Scholarship Program for veterinary students, which pays tuition in exchange for a service commitment. Most students combine several scholarships, their school's own aid, and loans.
When are most vet scholarship deadlines?
The busiest months are January, April, May, and November, but deadlines fall in every season. Each listing shows its posted deadline or the month it's usually due, and the Open now only filter hides everything that's closed.
Can I apply before I'm in vet school?
Yes. The first section of this list is for high school seniors and pre-vet college students. Choose High school senior or Pre-vet in college in the filter to see only those.
How often is this list updated?
I check every listing against its sponsor's website once a month, add new scholarships, and remove ones that have ended. Each listing shows the date it was last checked. Deadlines and amounts can change at any time, so always confirm on the official page before you apply.
I know a scholarship that's missing. Can you add it?
Please do send it. Email the scholarship's official page to vince (at) vincekotchian.com and I'll check it and add it if it's a national award for pre-vet or vet students.
This list is for information only. Vince Kotchian Test Prep isn't affiliated with these sponsors, except for Vince's own scholarship. Always confirm amounts, eligibility, and deadlines on each sponsor's official page.