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HomeBecoming a Diplomate

The American College of Animal Welfare is an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-recognized veterinary specialty. ACAW Diplomates are veterinarians recognized as board-certified experts in animal welfare. Diplomates hold positions in academia, government, corporate, practice and non-profit organizations. Diplomates are graduate veterinarians who have completed rigorous training and/or have obtained experience that qualifies them to sit for the certification examination.

 

Below are descriptions of potential paths toward Board Certification, FAQs regarding certification, Reading lists, and other things.

Click here for Routes for Board Certification (2-2023)
Click here for Guidance on Independent Training Programs 2024 (9-2024)
Click here for Credentials Activity Log (1-2023)
Click here for Master Book List (alphabetized) (9-2022)
Click here for Reading List by Knowledge Task Areas (9-2022)
Click here for Milestones for Individual Training Programs (9-2024)

 

If additional information is required, then please contact the ACAW Secretary at acaw.secretary@gmail.com with your specific question(s).

 

The College is excited that you have expressed interest in becoming board certified in animal welfare. Your journey will be challenging, require dedication, and focus; but if you persist with your training and engage ACAW Diplomates as partners, you will optimize your opportunity to become a respected veterinary Diplomate of the American College of Animal Welfare.  

General Information

*please see links above for current documents*


Step by Step Process leading to Board Certification

Alternate Route

Not Available Under Construction

Step 1 (Instructions-not available)

Download Applicant's Packet

Step 2 (Registration)

Online Registration and Fee PaymentA candidate has 18 months to move to Step 3 (upload plan) or the registration will expire.

Step 2 (Registration- not available)

Online Registration and Fee PaymentA candidate has 18 months to move to Step 3 (upload plan) or the registration will expire.

Step 3 (Upload Details of Plan as one PDF)

Upload Alt Route Plan, Mentor Letter, Timeline Upload Requested Alt Plan Supplemental Info
Wait for an email confirming acceptance of your proposed Alternate Route Plan before proceeding onto the next step.

Step 3 (Upload Verification of Credentials Form and Supporting Documents in Order Listed as one PDF)

Upload Credentialing Forms, Pay Fee Upload Requested Credential Supplemental Info

Step 4 (Upload Verification of Credentials Form and Supporting Documents in Order Listed as one PDF)

Upload Credentialing Forms, Pay Fee Upload Requested Credential Supplemental Info

Step 4 (When Notified of Successful Credentialing as one PDF)

Upload Optional Exam Accommodations Form Upload Exam/Code of Ethics Form & Pay Fee

Step 5 (When Notified of Successful Credentialing as one PDF)

Upload Optional Exam Accommodations Form Upload Exam/Code of Ethics Form & Pay Fee

Step 5 (When Notified of Passing Exam)

Pay New Diplomate Dues

Step 6 (When Notified of Passing Exam)

Pay New Diplomate Dues

Step 6 (Provide Feedback)

Complete Survey

Step 7 (Provide Feedback)

Complete Survey