The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $13.2 million to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) in 2024-25, representing a $667,000 increase over last year, adding five new seats for Saskatchewan students.
This funding is part of the government’s commitment to subsidize 25 training seats for Saskatchewan students. Five of these seats are designated for students who are likely to work in rural or mixed animal practices in the province following graduation. This designation encourages graduates to consider agriculture-focused veterinary careers.
The WCVM is located on the University of Saskatchewan campus at Saskatoon. Based on an interprovincial agreement with three western provinces, WCVM annually accepts an allotted number of applicants from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia.
“Western Canada needs more veterinarians and, with support from the provincial government, USask will assist in meeting that need,” says University of Saskatchewan president Peter Stoicheff. “The Government of Saskatchewan’s increased funding for the WCVM has already helped boost the number of Saskatchewan students enrolled in veterinary medicine. More graduates will improve access to veterinary services in communities across Saskatchewan and the country.”
Saskatchewan also offers the Saskatchewan Loan Forgiveness for Veterinarians and Veterinary Technologists Program, which forgives up to $20,000 in Saskatchewan student loan debt for graduates who practice in rural and underserved areas.
