Pathways to becoming a Diplomate

Pathways to Specialisation

Becoming a Diplomate of the ECVM

There are four routes to membership of the ECVM. Three lead to full Diplomate and European Specialist status via the certifying examination. The Associate Member route is for scientists without a registerable veterinary qualification who contribute to resident training; Associate Members hold Diplomate but not European Specialist status.

Enquiries can be directed to the Secretary: rachael.tarlinton@nottingham.ac.uk

Pathways to Specialisation
 
Residency Training

The primary route. A supervised programme of minimum three years at an approved training centre, combining clinical work, research and externships.

Minimum 3 years
Supervised by ECVM Diplomate
Standard or Alternate programme
✓ European Specialist
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International Recognition

For experienced specialists with at least 10 years of research and/or practical experience who can demonstrate equivalent expertise to a residency-trained candidate.

Minimum 10 years experience
10 peer-reviewed papers required
Commitment to resident training
✓ European Specialist
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Non-EBVS Diplomate

For holders of equivalent qualifications such as FRCPath or ACVM. Associate Diplomate status may be granted for up to 5 years to those with major potential contribution to the College.

Equivalent exam standard required
Associate Diplomate status (5 years)
Must practise in Europe
✓ European Specialist
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Associate Member

For scientists of international repute without a veterinary qualification registerable in Europe, with equivalent research or laboratory experience and intention to contribute to resident training.

No veterinary registration required
Max 10% of total diplomates
Letter of support from ECVM Specialist
Diplomate — not European Specialist
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Required for full Diplomate and European Specialist status

The ECVM Certifying Examination

Candidates via the Residency and International Recognition routes must pass the ECVM certifying examination, held annually in September alongside the college conference. The examination consists of two parts which may be taken in separate years. 

Examination details →
400
Full exam
200
Per part
2
Parts
Sep
Annual
Maintaining your status
Re-certification

To maintain European Specialist Status and full college membership, Diplomates must re-accredit every 5 years, demonstrating continued clinical and research activity and participation in resident training.

Re-certification details →