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Guidance for veterinary students

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Extra-mural studies (EMS)

Extra-mural studies, or EMS, is an essential component of undergraduate veterinary education, giving you the opportunity to gain real-world experience across a wide range of veterinary practices and procedures.

Information and guidance for veterinary students, veterinary schools and EMS placement providers.

Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP)

The VetGDP supports graduates in developing their clinical and professional capabilities, resilience and confidence, helping them to establish a fulfilling career as a veterinary professional. 

The programme offers meaningful and effective support for all veterinary graduates during the first 12-18 months in their role, helping them develop into assured, confident members of the practice team.

Find out more about the VetGDP

Fitness to practise guide for UK vet schools and vet students

Together with the Veterinary Schools Council (VSC), we have published a fitness to practise guide for UK veterinary schools and veterinary students.

The first section provides guidance for veterinary schools on recognising and addressing fitness to practise concerns. Part two sets out the broad principles of fitness to practise that students should follow and which veterinary schools should expect and uphold.

Download the guide

Reasonable adjustments for students

Reasonable adjustments are changes that help students or employees with disabilities overcome disadvantages. Vet schools are required to provide these adjustments to support students with disabilities.

The RCVS has created guidance which explains the key principles of reasonable adjustments, gives examples, and includes a summary for students of the essential things you need to know.

Working in the EU after graduation

Graduates from UK vet schools may face additional requirements to work in the EU. Students planning to work in an EU country after graduation should contact the appropriate national authority to check for any extra requirements. For further information and a list of competent authorities within the EU, visit the Federation of veterinarians of Europe (FVE).