VCAT: Veterinary College Admissions Test
The VCAT is administered in
January, October, and November.
Test Sections
Like the PCAT, the VCAT
requires the application of basic science knowledge, math skills,
and verbal knowledge. Basic science courses needed for the VCAT
include one year of college-level general chemistry, introductory
organic chemistry, and biology with an emphasis on human physiology.
The math for the VCAT requires a basic understanding of algebr a and
geometry (calculus and trigonometry are NOT covered). The VCAT also
tests reading comprehension skills and word knowledge through its
reading comprehension and verbal ability (antonyms and analogies)
sections, respectively.
-
The reading comprehension section contains 6 passages with 6-8
accompanying questions. Subject matter may cover any area in the
Natural Sciences, Sciences, and Humanities. This section
requires no outside knowledge.
-
The chemistry section tes ts mostly general chemistry; however,
it also tests some basic organic chemistry.
-
The biology section tests biology and human physiology, with a
greater emphasis on physiology.
-
The quantitative ability section is approximately 75% basic math
concepts and algebra and 15-20% geometry. Only 5-10% test
advanced math skills (logs, factorials, etc.).
-
All of the questions, in the one-best answer multiple-choice
format, have four answer choices (A - D).
-
All questions are worth one point, so you should not spend too
much time on any one question. With no penalty for guessing,
never leave any question blank.
|
Section |
Time (min) |
Questions |
|
verbal |
30 |
50 |
|
biology |
30 |
50 |
|
reading comprehension |
40 |
40 |
|
quantitative ability |
25 |
40 |
|
chemistry |
25 |
50 |
|
experimental (not scored) |
varies |
varies |
Scoring
The VCAT, scored on a scale
from 100 to 300, has a mean score of 200 and a standard deviation of
30 points. You receive percentile scores based on the strength of
the applicant pool.
Registration
The Psychological
Corporation
Veterinary College Admission
Test
P.O. Box 96152
Chicago, Illinois 60693
1-800-622-3231
Exam Cost: $50 (currently)
For more information on
careers in veterinary medicine, consult the following:
The American Veterinary
Medical Association
1931 North Meacham Road, Suite
100
Schaumberg, IL 60173
Phone: (847) 925-8070
Fax: (847) 925-1329
http://www.avma.org |
