Examination and Assessment Pathways
Applicants need to demonstrate adequate knowledge and competency to meet entry to practise requirements. Successful completion of a College-approved examination and assessment pathway is a key indicator of this knowledge and competency.
Graduates of an accredited veterinary school
Applicants who received their veterinary degree from an AVMA accredited school must successfully complete the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) before applying to the College. If an applicant is not successful in completing the NAVLE after three attempts, they will also be required to complete the Preliminary Surgical Assessment (PSA) and the Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE) after successfully completing the NAVLE
Graduates of an acceptable unaccredited veterinary school
Applicants who received their veterinary degree from an AVMA acceptable, unaccredited school must successfully complete the BCSE and the NAVLE before applying to the College for a Restricted Licence.
In order to obtain a General licence, applicants from acceptable unaccredited schools must complete a College-approved examination and assessment pathway.
For more information about these pathways, please review the following websites:
Questions about licensure?
Licensure team
licensure@cvo.org
Appealing a National Board Exam Decision
If you wish to appeal a National Board Exam decision, you will need to contact the appropriate examining body. Canadian Veterinary Medical Association – National Examining Board (CVMA-NEB) processes are outlined in the Candidates Enrollment Guide (Information for Applicants) on the CVMA website.
American Veterinary Medical Association - Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates processes are on the AVMA website.
International Council for Veterinary Assessment processes are outlined in the Candidate Bulletin on the ICVA website.
Jurisprudence Exam
The College's jurisprudence exam requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge of and the ability to apply relevant Ontario legislation and regulations, as well as College standards and guidelines.