The Massey veterinary degree, is five-years (10 semesters) in length, divided into a one semester pre-vet (aka pre-selection) phase, and the “professional” phase (9 semesters). The academic year for the degree is February to mid-November, with the pre-vet semester starting in February, and the professional phase starting in mid-July annually.

VMCAS applicants apply for direct entry into the professional phase of the degree (also called Group 2 applicants). If offered a place, they get credit for the courses in the pre-vet semester, so the degree is only 4.5 years (9 semesters).

In the professional phase of the degree, you’ll complete all the learning you need to register as a veterinarian. Animal handling and practical learning commences in the first semester of the professional phase and culminates in a final year of rotations at Massey University with a smaller number of rotations at our partner practices to ensure you see a balance of university and commercial veterinary practice.

Alternative Selection Pathway

Applicants who don’t meet the eligibility criteria or aren’t ranked high enough to be offered a place directly into the professional phase, can apply for admission into the BVSc Pre-Selection program to be considered as a Group 1 applicant.

Group 1 applicants complete the pre-vet semester to prove their ability for the professional phase. This is a great option for high performing high school students who want to get straight into studying for their vet degree without having to do an undergraduate degree first.

Any previous GPA is disregarded and your application uses the New Zealand based GPA. So it’s also a great option for students who had previous difficulty that impacted their ability to perform academically, or those making a career change, as it only takes one semester of study to know whether you will be selected into veterinary school.

Health & Wellness

All vet students have access to the student health and counselling service as well as staff and senior student mentors. There is also an extensive recreation centre, fitness facilities, sport courts and numerous social and competitive sport leagues.

The Massey University Veterinary Student Association (MUVSA) is the official representation of veterinary students at Massey University and liaises with faculty in Tāwharau Ora School of Veterinary Science.

Application Information

Class Size
- Resident #: 125
- Non-Resident #: See international
- International Seats #: 50
Applicant Pool (prior year)
- International #: ~325
International School: Yes
Accepts International Applicants: Yes
VMCAS Participant: Yes
- Applicants may apply through VMCAS or directly to the university online

Massey University

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