1 Task: Verify English proficiency

All applicants to the PAVE Program must demonstrate proficiency in the English language using one of the three options below:

For Options 1 and 2 only

• TOEFL and IELTS scores are considered valid for two years after the test date. English proficiency scores must be valid at the time a PAVE candidate sits for the QSE.
• Scores from multiple score reports cannot be combined. Candidates must achieve all section requirements on the same score report. There are no exceptions to this policy.
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  • Option 1: TOEFL iBT® Test (internet-based version of the TOEFL) Examination
    • There is no minimum overall passing score for the TOEFL iBT® Test. Candidates must achieve, at a minimum, the scores below in each section:

      Reading	18
      Listening	26
      Speaking	26
      Writing	20

    • The AAVSB Institution Code is 8216. You must put this number on the TOEFL exam forms for scores to be sent directly to the AAVSB office. For further information and to register for TOEFL, go to www.ets.org/toefl.
  • Option 2: IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic Examination
    • You must score at least a 6.5 overall on the Academic Module. Section requirements are below:

      Listening	6.5
      Reading	6.0
      Writing	6.0
      Speaking	7.0

    • You must request that your scores be sent directly to the AAVSB. For further information and to register for IELTS, go to www.ielts.org.
  • Option 3: Alternative to English Proficiency Examinations
    • You must provide substantiation that you have attended at least three (3) years at a secondary high school under which the complete language of instruction was English.
    • A degree from an English-speaking college or university is not considered adequate proof of English proficiency for PAVE candidates.
    • You must substantiate English language proficiency prior to sitting for the Qualifying Science Examination (QSE).
      • Acceptable documentation includes:
        • A letter received by PAVE directly from school officials stating the dates of attendance and verifying that the complete language of instruction was English; and
        • For graduates of such high schools, a certified, notarized, or official copy of the final diploma or transcript which includes years of attendance; or
        • If you were homeschooled for all or part of your high school education (grades 9-12), you may submit a letter from a school district official who had oversight of the home school curriculum.

2 Task: Review exam dates

3 Task: Verify your school

4 Task: Mail required documentation

• Mail the required documentation prior to or during the online application window.
• Documents can be sent separately. All documents required for application are due by the application deadline.
• Please send an email with contact information to pave@aavsb.org when documents are being sent and when you expect to apply for the PAVE program.
• Any document (including all seals and/or stamps) that is not in English must be prepared and certified by a professional translation service. You are required to submit original documents in addition to the certified translations.

Required documents for all applicants:

• 1.   An original or certified copy of your birth certificate or a notarized copy of your passport.
  2.   Print, complete, sign, and mail affidavit for release of information.
     
     Download Affidavit for Release of Information
  3.   Proof of English Proficiency – one of the following:
     •   Successful completion of the TOEFL examination; or
     •   Successful completion of the IELTS examination; or
     •   Documentation that English was the primary language of instruction at your high school (grades 9-12). Refer to requirements in Task #1.
  4.   If you have graduated from a veterinary school, submit:
     • Official proof of veterinary degree or qualification (diploma), sent directly from the veterinary school; and
     • Official final veterinary transcripts sent directly from the veterinary school.
  5.   If you are currently enrolled in veterinary school, submit:
     • A letter from the Dean or Principal indicating your academic standing and the anticipated date of your graduation and verifying you have completed 50% of the program sent directly from your veterinary school; and
     • An unofficial transcript or grade report detailing courses and grades sent directly from each veterinary school attended.
  6.   If your name is different from your passport or birth certificate, submit one verification document:
     • a notarized copy of your marriage license; or
     • a notarized copy of your divorce decree; or
     • a notarized copy of your name-change document.

Request Accommodations

• If you have a documented disability covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendment Act of 2008 (ADAAA 2008) and want to test with accommodations, you must complete the request form.

  Click here to print the Request Form for Accommodations (PDF)

• Supporting documentation must be provided prior to, or at the time of, submission of your PAVE application. Requests for accommodations will not be accepted after the deadline date.
• All requests for accommodations must be approved by the AAVSB.

Submit the required documents by mail to the following address:

5 Task: Submit application

• You will pay initial fees by credit card when you submit your online application. The AAVSB accepts Visa®, Mastercard®, Discover®, and American Express®.
• The first and last name on the PAVE online application must match the first and last name of your government issued, unexpired, photo ID with signature, that you will use on exam day. Email pave@aavsb.org if this is a concern.