What Qualifications Do You Need To Be a Vet?

If you have just finished Functional Skills Level 2 and you dream of working with animals, you may be wondering what the qualifications for vet training are and how far you are from them. The honest answer is that there are several steps ahead, but each one is clear, and plenty of adults take them one at a time.

At Functional Skills Level 2, we know that passing a Level 2 qualification often brings a big question with it: what comes next? The answers below are written for exactly that moment, in plain language, so you can see the route and decide your next move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my Functional Skills Level 2 get me onto a vet degree?

On its own, no. Pass My GCSE explains that Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English is not normally accepted for veterinary courses. Vet schools usually ask for GCSEs instead, along with higher-level science qualifications.

That does not mean your Level 2 was wasted. It has built your maths and English skills and shown that you can study and pass exams as an adult, which is a useful starting point for the GCSEs you will need next.

What are the main stages between where I am now and becoming a vet?

There are five stages in total. Pass Learn sets them out in this order: GCSEs, then A Levels or an Access to HE Diploma, then hands-on work experience with animals, then a veterinary degree, and finally registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). You can read more about the qualifications needed to become a vet in the full Pass Learn guide.

Registration matters because you must be registered with the RCVS to work as a vet in the UK. To register, you need a degree from an RCVS-accredited UK university.

Which GCSEs should I work towards first?

The core subjects are English, Maths and Science. Most universities also expect Biology and Chemistry, or Combined Science that covers both. Pass My GCSE has the veterinary GCSE requirements explained in more detail, including what to do if you are missing any.

Grades matter too. Pass My GCSE says grade 6 or above is often expected, while Pass Learn says vet schools typically ask for at least five GCSEs at grade 7 or above. Because the courses are competitive and each university sets its own rules, always check the entry criteria of the courses you are interested in.

When can I sit my GCSE exams as an adult?

According to Pass My GCSE, Maths and English GCSEs can be sat in May or November, and Science GCSEs are sat in May and June. Resitting GCSEs is a recognised option for adults who need to meet entry requirements.

Do I need A Levels, and do I have to go back to school for them?

Most vet schools ask for three A Levels with strong grades. Chemistry is required by every UK vet school, and Biology by most. Physics or Maths are good choices for a third subject. Pass A Level gives the A Level grades required for vet school, noting that most schools expect AAA or A*AA.

You do not have to be 16 to 18. Pass A Level points out that adults can also study A Levels to meet vet degree requirements, and online A Level courses are available.

Is there another route if A Levels don’t suit me?

An Access to HE Diploma is a Level 3 qualification designed for adults who did not follow the sixth-form route. There is a Veterinary Science and Zoology diploma covering biology, chemistry, animal science and research skills. It is studied online at your own pace, with tutor support, and is assessed by coursework rather than end-of-year exams.

The important thing to know is that not every vet school accepts it. Universities that do usually want a distinction profile with a strong focus on science modules, so check before you enrol. Pass Learn offers this diploma as well as online GCSE and A Level courses for adults.

How can I start getting experience with animals now?

Vet schools expect hands-on experience with animals, so this is something you can start straight away while you study. Places to look include vet practices, farms, stables, kennels, catteries, rescue centres, wildlife parks, zoos and conservation organisations.

Pass Learn suggests keeping a reflective record as you go. Writing down what you did and what you learned will help you later when you apply and need to show what you know about the work.

What if I decide being a vet is not for me?

That is fine, and there are other careers with animals to consider. The National Careers Service guide to becoming a vet lists related careers such as veterinary nurse, veterinary physiotherapist, animal care worker and zookeeper.

Pass A Level also mentions vocational routes such as veterinary nursing or animal care apprenticeships. Pass My GCSE notes, however, that there is no direct apprenticeship route into becoming a vet itself.

How long would the whole journey take?

Pass Learn estimates around seven to eight years from GCSEs to becoming a qualified vet. That includes two years of A Levels, or six to twelve months on an Access course, followed by a degree that usually lasts five to six years. If you already have GCSEs to complete first, allow time for those as well.

Is there help with paying for the degree?

Yes. When it is time for university, you can look into applying for student finance through GOV.UK. There is a Tuition Fee Loan, which is paid to the university, and a Maintenance Loan to help with living costs.

GOV.UK also explains that you only start repaying after you have left the course and are earning above a certain amount. Extra help may be available if you are on a low income, have a disability or have children.

Finishing Functional Skills Level 2 is a real achievement, and it can be the first step on a much longer journey. If you want to become a vet, your next move is likely to be your GCSEs, especially English, Maths and the sciences. Take it one stage at a time, start gathering experience with animals early, and check each university’s entry requirements as your plans take shape.

Written by

PassFunctionalSkills Team

We help thousands of students get their Functional Skills Qualifications.