The ACVIM seeks to enhance animal and human health by advancing veterinary internal medicine through Board-certification. Our specialists undergo considerable post-graduate training beyond the six to eight years of college education normally required to earn a veterinary degree.
This post-graduate training includes an internship, residency and documented clinical experience that lays the groundwork for a Candidate to take a certification exam leading to Diplomate status.
Once in an approved residency training program (RTP), residents must register with the ACVIM within 90 days of beginning their RTP (e.g., by October 1 for programs beginning on July 1). The purpose of registration is to ensure that a candidate embarks on a training program that conforms to the requirements of the specialty in which he or she wishes to become certified. Failure to register, or registration after the 90-day deadline, may jeopardize the resident's certification process, as some of the training program may not be recognized or accepted. In 2016 a program of Maintenance of Credentials (MOC) will become effective for new Diplomates. Please see section D.5.c of the General Information Guide (GIG) for additional information.
Online Candidate Registration Form*
(The same registration form is used for all specialty areas.)
If you are a candidate who wishes to relocate to a new residency training program, please contact Certification@ACVIM.org for directions and DO NOT register online.
