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Do I have to take AP chemistry in high school to become a veterinarian?

Hi there my name is Mirielle I'm a sophomore in high school interested in a career as a veterinarian. I'm wondering if I would have to take AP chemistry in high school I'm going to take chemistry but right now AP chemistry doesn't fit into my schedule.

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karen’s Answer

My colleague above is correct in my opinion. What matters more is doing very well in which ever chemistry you are taking. Things have changed a lot since I went to vet school in the 90’s - but then it mattered more that you had good grades and they you had real experience in the vet med field.

I took a look at a pre vet forum on line (random google search) and saw that people were really sweating over what courses they took and… how they wrote them in their applications … maybe things matter more than when I applied due to the number of people applying so I guess a better answer might be… if you can take AP chem and pull off an excellent grade it might set you apart from someone the same as you in every other way and thus give you a tiny edge… but it is not a requirement for applying or getting in… most applicants are smart and getting good grades - many will have taken AP courses including chemistry. You might do better getting all A’s in regular level courses and go out and get some experience working in a vet clinic on weekends holidays whenever you can!

Also talk to your academic advisor who will be more on top of current trends and requirements!

Good luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Mirielle
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Nirah’s Answer

No, you definitely do not need to take AP chemistry in high school to get into vet school.

Source: I am vet. I did not take AP chemistry. (I did take other AP classes).

You *will* need to take chemistry in college.

AP classes in high school can indirectly help you get into vet school by helping you get into a better college. They can also help free up your schedule once you reach college, since you may be able to skip some of the entry-level classes and go right to the higher level classes that are some of the prerequisites for Vet school. However, no one specific AP class is in any way required or particularly helpful for getting into vet school.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Nirah! Mirielle
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Oanh’s Answer

Hi Mirielle, yes, most veterinary schools require college-level courses in chemistry, physics, and biology to get into vet school. If your HS offer science courses for college credit, you should take these courses to save time and money when you go to college.
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Amelia’s Answer

Hi! I just wanted to share that I didn't graduate from high school; I got my GED instead. So, no, AP Chemistry isn't a must. I've taken Chemistry classes at a junior college, and each university has its own rules for transferring grades. You might have to retake Chemistry classes a few times. But, as someone mentioned, you can save money in college by finishing the prerequisites early.
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Tiff’s Answer

Hi, you do not have to take AP CHEM in high school to become a veterinarian.
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