AVMA / AVMF Scholarship for Veterans

Name: AVMA / AVMF Scholarship for Veterans

Award Amount: $5,000 per recipient (two scholarships awarded)

Information And Eligibility:
The AVMA / AVMF Scholarship for Veterans was established by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) to honor the service of U.S. military veterans who are pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. The scholarship commemorates the centennial of the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, which was formally created following President Woodrow Wilson’s signing of the National Defense Act of 1916—legislation that strengthened national defense and recognized the vital role of veterinary medicine in military readiness, food safety, and animal health.

This scholarship reflects a shared commitment by AVMA and AVMF to support veterans as they transition from military service into the veterinary profession. Veterans often bring leadership, discipline, and a strong sense of service to veterinary medicine, and this award is designed to help reduce the financial burden of veterinary education while recognizing those contributions. A generous donor provides funding for two $5,000 scholarships awarded annually to eligible applicants.

The scholarship is open to U.S. military veterans who are currently enrolled in the first, second, or third year of veterinary school at an AVMA-accredited institution. Eligible service branches include the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and Space Force. Applicants must demonstrate academic progress, involvement in university-affiliated organizations, and leadership or service responsibilities that reflect their continued commitment to professional growth.

Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship serves as formal recognition of the unique perspective and experience veterans bring to veterinary medicine. Recipients are selected based on academic standing, leadership involvement, military service, and alignment with the mission of AVMA and AVMF. The award supports students who are balancing the demands of rigorous veterinary training while building upon the skills developed during their military service.

Funds are disbursed during the fall semester and may be applied toward educational expenses. While the application cycle opens annually for a limited window, prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor AVMF communications and official announcements for updates on future application periods.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a first-, second-, or third-year veterinary student in good standing.
• Must be enrolled at an AVMA-accredited veterinary school.
• Must be a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, or Space Force.
• Must be honorably discharged or active duty for training in good standing.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must demonstrate involvement in university-affiliated organizations, including leadership roles.
• Must be a member of SAVMA if the school has a SAVMA chapter.

Application Requirements:

• Completed scholarship application submitted during the designated application window.
• Documentation verifying veteran status and academic enrollment.
• Information outlining leadership involvement and service activities.
• Any additional materials required by the scholarship guidelines.

Deadline: September

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