What A-levels to choose for vet school in 2027
Biology and Chemistry at A-level are required by all 9 UK vet schools. The third subject should be a science (Physics, Maths or Psychology). Grades typically AAA, with Cambridge requiring A*A*A (16.7 % acceptance in 2025). This guide breaks down the requirements school by school, plus GCSE minimums and the 3 most common mistakes.
The recommended A-level combination
| Year | Core subjects | Useful third / extra |
|---|---|---|
| AS / Year 12 | Biology · Chemistry · one more science | Keep 4 if realistic |
| A2 / Year 13 | Biology · Chemistry · Maths or Physics or Psychology | EPQ on a vet-adjacent topic strongly recommended |
Requirements by UK vet school (2027 entry)
| School | Typical offer | Required subjects | GCSE English |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge VetMB | A*A*A | Biology + Chemistry + one more A-level | Grade 7 (A) or above |
| RVC BVetMed | AAA | Biology + Chemistry + one more A-level | Grade 6 (B) |
| Bristol BVSc | AAA | Biology + Chemistry + one more | Grade 6 |
| Nottingham BVM BVS | AAA | Biology + Chemistry + one more | Grade 6 |
| Surrey BVMSci | AAB | Biology + Chemistry + one more | Grade 6 |
| Harper & Keele BVetMS | ABB | Biology + Chemistry + one more | Grade 5 (C) |
| Lancashire UCLan BVMS | ABB | Biology + Chemistry + one more | Grade 5 |
| Liverpool BVSc | AAA | Biology + Chemistry + one more | Grade 6 |
The 3 most common A-level mistakes
- Dropping Biology after AS — fatal. Biology A-level is universally required. Don't swap for environmental science or applied science.
- Taking three "soft" sciences — e.g. Biology + Psychology + Geography. Chemistry is required. Without it, most vet schools reject automatically.
- Overloading with 5 A-levels — doesn't impress admissions tutors. Three A-levels with grades AAA beats four A-levels with ABBB every time.
What admissions tutors look for (order of priority)
- Grades in Biology and Chemistry (predicted + achieved AS)
- GCSE profile — breadth and strength across subjects
- Animal work experience — min. 4 weeks across clinical, farm, equine
- Personal statement — scientific curiosity + realistic motivation
- EPQ, references, Grade 8 music or sports leadership (bonus)
"What separates admitted applicants is rarely their grades — most hit the threshold. It's the quality of their reflection on hands-on experience that moves the needle at interview."
FAQ — A-levels for vet medicine
Can I do vet medicine with BTEC qualifications?
Some schools accept BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science combined with A-level Chemistry. Check RVC, Nottingham and Harper & Keele policies specifically — Cambridge and Bristol are less flexible.
Do I need Further Maths for vet school?
No. Standard A-level Maths is enough. Further Maths is useful if you're aiming for Cambridge VetMB but not required.
Is an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) worth doing?
Yes, strongly. An EPQ on a veterinary topic (antimicrobial resistance, One Health, zoonoses) demonstrates independent scientific thinking and usually earns a conditional offer bump.
What if I only get ABB instead of AAA?
Harper & Keele, Surrey and Lancashire accept AAB/ABB offers. Also consider an EAEVE overseas route (Budapest, Cluj) or Access to HE for a year then reapply with stronger evidence.