The best universities to study veterinary medicine in Australia in 2027 are accredited by the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC) and include the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, the University of Queensland, Murdoch University, the University of Adelaide and Charles Sturt University.
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 build the clinical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. In this guide, we cover entry requirements, tuition fees and career pathways for international students applying for 2027 entry.
Best Veterinary Medicine Universities in Australia
Only a small number of Australian universities are accredited to teach veterinary science, so the six below cover the main routes into the profession, ranked via the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.
1. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Sydney School of Veterinary Science ranks 16th globally for veterinary science in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, up from 21st the previous year, 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 sits among the world’s top 20 for veterinary science in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) is a graduate-entry 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: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
3. University of Queensland
The University of Queensland’s School of Veterinary Science, based at its Gatton campus, ranks 34th globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 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 RCVS (UK) and the AVMA (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 in veterinary pharmaceutical roles.
- 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)
6. Charles Sturt University
Charles Sturt University’s School of Veterinary and Animal Sciences is based in the regional centre of Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, and takes a distinctly rural and regional approach to veterinary training. Its six-year Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science double degree is accredited by both the AVBC and the RCVS, giving graduates pathways to practise in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK and South Africa.
Students train at purpose-built facilities including a veterinary clinical centre, a small animal referral hospital, a diagnostic laboratory and an equine centre, alongside placements with rural practices and farms. The programme is well suited to students aiming for careers in rural mixed practice, farm animal and equine medicine, or production animal health.
- Suggested course: Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/Bachelor of Veterinary Science
What Are the 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. An ATAR of 90 or above is common for entry into veterinary programmes.
- English language proficiency: IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.5, or equivalent scores in TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge English.
- Additional requirements: Some universities, including Charles Sturt, also require a supplementary application form and an interview alongside evidence of animal handling experience.
Postgraduate: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Academic qualifications: A recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as animal science, biology or biomedical science, with strong grades in prerequisite subjects including chemistry, biology and biochemistry.
- GPA requirements: A minimum GPA of 5.0 to 5.5 on a 7-point scale is typically required.
- English language proficiency: IELTS Academic score of 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.5, or equivalent.
- Additional documents: CV, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and a personal statement. Some programmes may also require an interview or evidence of animal-related work experience.
How to Apply for Veterinary Medicine in Australia
Applying for a veterinary place is more involved than most undergraduate applications, largely because places are limited and several universities add their own supplementary steps on top of the standard university application process.
- Confirm your pathway: decide between an undergraduate entry veterinary degree or a postgraduate DVM if you already hold a relevant bachelor’s degree.
- Check subject and grade prerequisites: most universities expect strong results in biology and chemistry, plus a competitive ATAR or GPA.
- Sit and submit an approved English test, such as IELTS Academic, meeting the 7.0 overall requirement with no band below 6.5.
- Complete any supplementary application form or interview, which Charles Sturt and several other veterinary schools require in addition to the main application.
- Accept your offer and pay any deposit requested to receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500), meeting the Genuine Student requirement and the current living-cost threshold.
- Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and prepare your pre-departure documents ahead of your 2027 intake.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Veterinary Medicine in Australia?
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 2027 entry.
| Programme Level |
Annual Tuition Range (AUD) |
| Undergraduate |
$45,000 – $75,000 |
| Postgraduate (DVM) |
$55,000 – $85,000 |
| Living costs (per year) |
$29,710 minimum (visa requirement) |
The Department of Home Affairs currently sets the minimum living cost requirement for a Student visa (Subclass 500) at AUD $29,710 for 12 months, on top of tuition and travel costs. For a full breakdown of accommodation, food and other everyday expenses by city, see our guide.
Expert View
“Veterinary places in Australia are limited and the fees are among the highest of any degree, so students need to budget for the full course length from year one, not just the first year of tuition.” – Priya Kaur, Counsellor, StudyIn.
Scholarships for Veterinary Medicine in Australia
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.
What Are the Post-Study Work Rights for Veterinary Graduates?
Eligible graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), which currently runs for between 18 months and 3 years depending on the qualification completed.
Applicants must generally be under 35 at the time of application, and the visa charge is AUD $5,750 for the primary applicant. For the full process and current financial requirements, see our Australia student visa guide.
Study Veterinary Medicine in Australia
Choosing a veterinary degree is a bigger commitment than most course decisions, given the length, cost and limited places involved. StudyIn’s counsellors support you through the full cycle, from comparing programmes and preparing supplementary applications through to visa guidance and pre-departure planning.
If you want to study veterinary medicine in Australia, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today. Our expert team can assist with your application, offer advice on course selection and help you find available scholarships.
FAQs
Which universities offer veterinary medicine in Australia?
Only a small number of Australian universities are accredited to teach veterinary medicine, including the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, the University of Queensland, Murdoch University, the University of Adelaide and Charles Sturt University.
Is Australia a good place to study veterinary medicine?
Yes. Australian veterinary degrees are internationally accredited, taught at universities with strong research facilities, and lead to recognised qualifications in animal health, welfare and biosecurity.
What ATAR do I need to study veterinary science in Australia?
Competitive ATAR scores are required, with an ATAR of 90 or above common for entry, alongside strong results in biology and chemistry and an approved English test score.
How much does it cost to study veterinary medicine in Australia?
Undergraduate veterinary degrees typically range from AUD $45,000 to $75,000 per year, while postgraduate DVM programmes range from AUD $55,000 to $85,000 per year, in addition to living costs.
Are there scholarships available for international veterinary students?
Some universities offer merit-based scholarships or bursaries for international veterinary students, though places are limited due to the competitive nature of the field.
Is there a post-study work visa for veterinary graduates in Australia?
Eligible graduates can apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), which currently runs for 18 months to 3 years depending on the qualification, for applicants generally under 35 at the time of application.
Can international students work while studying veterinary medicine in Australia?
Yes. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work part-time during term and full-time during scheduled breaks, alongside the clinical placements built into most veterinary programmes.
