Overview
The AVMA Council on Education
The American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education (AVMA-COE) is the recognized accreditor of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) programs in the United States (and it accredits schools internationally as well). Recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.
The Gate
AVMA-COE accreditation and veterinary licensure
To be licensed to practice veterinary medicine, you must graduate from an AVMA-COE-accredited program and pass the NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination), administered by the NBVME, plus your state’s requirements. Students at accredited schools become eligible to sit for the NAVLE near the end of their program. An unaccredited veterinary program is not a viable licensure path.
The Scope
What AVMA-COE accredits
AVMA-COE accredits the professional DVM program at colleges of veterinary medicine — covering curriculum, clinical resources, faculty, and outcomes. Veterinary technician programs are accredited separately by the AVMA’s Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA).
Do It Yourself
Verify a veterinary program
Go Deeper
Official sources
Questions
Frequently asked questions
- Who accredits veterinary schools? The American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education (AVMA-COE), which accredits DVM/VMD programs in the U.S. and internationally. It is recognized by USDE and CHEA.
- Do I need an AVMA-accredited program to become a veterinarian? Yes. You must graduate from an AVMA-COE-accredited program and pass the NAVLE, plus meet your state's requirements, to be licensed.
- What is the NAVLE? The North American Veterinary Licensing Examination, the national exam required for veterinary licensure, administered by the NBVME.
- Are DVM and VMD different? No. They are equivalent professional degrees; the VMD name is used by one school (Penn). Both come from AVMA-COE-accredited programs.
- Does AVMA-COE accredit vet tech programs? No — veterinary technician programs are accredited by a separate AVMA committee (CVTEA). AVMA-COE accredits the professional DVM program.
- Is AVMA-COE recognized by the government? Yes. It is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA.
- Can I attend an international vet school and practice in the U.S.? AVMA-COE accredits some international programs; graduates of accredited foreign schools can pursue U.S. licensure, and other pathways exist for non-accredited foreign graduates.
- How do I verify a veterinary program? Search the AVMA-COE list of accredited schools and confirm licensure steps with your state veterinary board.