University of Minnesota - Crookston

05/21/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 05/21/2026 12:11

University of Minnesota Crookston Animal Science Students Achieve Extraordinary 90.9% Veterinary School Acceptance Rate

"I believe our consistently high acceptance rates are driven by several factors. First, our curriculum and small class sizes provide students with the hands-on learning experiences that veterinary schools value. Our program also includes a built-in internship experience, which helps students develop valuable clinical and animal-care hours before applying to veterinary school."

Leslie Lekatz, associate professor of animal science Leslie Lekatz, associate professor working directly with students in a lab

The University of Minnesota Crookston (UMN Crookston) is proud to announce 90.9 percent of its Animal Science Pre-Veterinary students were accepted into veterinary medical programs. This acceptance rate is nearly 10 times the national average of 11 percent, highlighting the program's rigorous academic preparation and hands-on learning environment.

This year, 10 out of 11 UMN Crookston students who applied to veterinary programs received offers of admission. The success rate underscores the strength of the animal science program and its commitment to preparing the next generation of veterinary professionals through a combination of classroom excellence and practical experience with livestock and other animals.

"We are incredibly proud of our pre-vet students and their continued success in the veterinary school admissions process," said Leslie Lekatz, associate professor of animal science at UMN Crookston. "I believe our consistently high acceptance rates are driven by several factors. First, our curriculum and small class sizes provide students with the hands-on learning experiences that veterinary schools value. Our program also includes a built-in internship experience, which helps students develop valuable clinical and animal-care hours before applying to veterinary school."

The Animal Science program at UMN Crookston is known for its faculty mentorship and the unique opportunity for undergraduates to work directly with animals on campus.

UMN Crookston students start working hands-on with animals as early as week two. This is different from larger institutions where students may not get to have hands-on interaction with animals until their second, third, or even fourth year of undergraduate education. These factors create a competitive profile for vet school applicants that is clearly recognized by admissions committees across the country.

UMN Crookston graduates are making their mark nationally and will attend several prestigious institutions including University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Missouri State University, Arkansas State University, Ross University, and South Dakota State University.

About UMN Crookston

The University of Minnesota Crookston is one of five campuses in the prestigious University of Minnesota System offering students an exceptional, hands-on learning experience in a safe, close-knit community. Known for its #1 best value ranking, NCAA Division II athletics, affordable tuition, #1 ranked dorms, and a supportive environment, UMN Crookston provides personalized attention and mentorship to help you thrive academically and professionally. With over 75 programs to choose from, including both on-campus and online options, you'll find a path that fits your goals at UMN Crookston. Small Campus. Big Degree. The Best of Both Worlds. Learn more and apply at www.umcrookston.edu.

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University of Minnesota - Crookston published this content on May 21, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 21, 2026 at 18:11 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]