Australia is a world leader in veterinary education, offering internationally accredited degrees, cutting-edge research facilities, and a strong focus on animal welfare and biosecurity.
Whether you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, livestock health, small animal care, or veterinary research, Australian universities offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and clinical training needed to succeed in the field. In this guide, we explore the top veterinary schools in Australia, entry requirements, tuition fees, and career pathways for international students in 2026.
Learn more about leading Australian veterinary science schools below. To apply or have any further questions answered about studying in Australia, arrange a free consultation today.
Best Veterinary Medicine Universities in Australia
Australian universities are renowned for their high academic standards, and veterinary degrees are accredited by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC). Below are the top veterinary schools in Australia, as ranked in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.
1. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Sydney School of Veterinary Science ranks 21st globally for veterinary science and is recognised for excellence in education, animal science, and research. The school encourages students to explore technological advancements in animal health and welfare and their impact on communities.
Courses include the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies, with majors in wildlife conservation, animal production, and animal health, disease, and welfare. Postgraduate options offer combined coursework and research-based degrees in advanced clinical training. Graduates can pursue careers as veterinary specialists in equine medicine, livestock health and production, small animal surgery, veterinary epidemiology, and more.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Taronga Wildlife Conservation)
2. The University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a leading public research university, and its Melbourne Veterinary School ranks 25th globally in veterinary science. The Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc) is a graduate research degree offering specialisations in agricultural and veterinary sciences. Students develop advanced research skills and gain specialist knowledge in their chosen field.
Graduates can pursue careers in veterinary medicine, agriculture, government policy, diagnostic laboratories, and animal health and production.
- Suggested course: Master of Veterinary Science
3. University of Queensland
The University of Queensland’s School of Veterinary Science ranks 35th globally and is known for excellence in teaching and research across multiple veterinary disciplines. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in veterinary science and veterinary technology.
These programmes are accredited by major international bodies, including the AVBC (Australia/New Zealand), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (UK), and the American Veterinary Medical Association (North America), enabling graduates to practise globally. Courses combine academic study with placement training, equipping students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to protect animal health and welfare. Graduates can work as veterinary professionals in both urban and rural settings.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours)
4. Murdoch University
The School of Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch University was established in 1979 to advance animal health, welfare, and productivity. The five-year Integrated Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programme offers science-based, hands-on training through veterinary teaching hospitals, clinics, and a working farm.
Students gain practical experience in wildlife, pet, and conservation medicine. Graduates can pursue careers as animal nutritionists, livestock officers, veterinary clinicians, or pharmacists.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
5. University of Adelaide
The University of Adelaide’s School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences delivers excellence in teaching, research, and clinical practice. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in animal behaviour, animal science, veterinary science, and veterinary technology. The most popular option is the Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience), which provides hands-on experience with internationally recognised clinicians and researchers.
Students learn to handle and care for animals, understand their behaviour, and study anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. The curriculum also covers population-level disease analysis, industry placements, and husbandry practices. Graduates may progress directly to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or pursue careers in biosecurity and disease prevention.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Science (Veterinary Bioscience)
Entry Requirements for Veterinary Medicine in Australia
Veterinary medicine is a highly competitive and regulated field in Australia. Entry requirements vary slightly by institution, but the following criteria apply broadly across undergraduate and postgraduate veterinary programmes:
Undergraduate (Bachelor of Veterinary Science / Bachelor of Veterinary Biology)
- Academic Qualifications: Completion of secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12, with strong results in science subjects—particularly biology and chemistry. Some universities may also require mathematics or physics.
- ATAR or Equivalent: Competitive ATAR scores (or international equivalents such as A-levels or IB) are required. For example, an ATAR of 90+ is common for entry into veterinary programmes.
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5), or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English.
- Additional Requirements: Some universities may require a personal statement, interview, or evidence of animal handling experience.
Postgraduate (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine – DVM)
- Academic Qualifications: A recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. animal science, biology, biomedical science) with strong grades in prerequisite subjects such as chemistry, biology, and biochemistry.
- GPA Requirements: A minimum GPA of 5.0–5.5 on a 7-point scale is typically required.
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall (no band below 6.5), or equivalent.
- Additional Documents: CV, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programmes may require an interview or evidence of animal-related work experience.
International Tuition Fees for Veterinary Medicine
Tuition fees for veterinary programmes are among the highest in Australia due to the specialised nature of the training and facilities required. Below are general ranges for 2026 entry:
| Programme Level |
Annual Tuition Range (AUD) |
| Undergraduate |
AUD 45,000 – AUD 70,000 |
| Postgraduate (DVM) |
AUD 55,000 – AUD 80,000 |
Scholarships
Some universities offer merit-based scholarships or bursaries for international veterinary students, though these are limited due to the competitive nature of the field. External funding may also be available through government or industry partnerships.
Study Veterinary Medicine
If you want to study in Australia, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today. Our expert team can assist with your application, offer expert advice on course selection and help you find available scholarships.
