Veterinary Assistant

Select start date and campus

Close

Applying as a Canadian applicant

Domestic students should apply online or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.

Applying as an International applicant

International students should apply online.
Close

Campus tours

Campus tours are one of the best ways to experience Conestoga. During this time, we are offering online guided tours to show you all Conestoga has to offer.

Book your tour

Virtual tours

If you can't make an on-campus tour or attend one of our events, the virtual tour is a great way to visit us.

View our Virtual tour

Please note:

March 2025: we are aware of a major shortage of rabies vaccination in Ontario. Conestoga College is reviewing options at this time and will post here and also advise accepted students of changes. Rest assured, we will have a process in place to ensure students can be vaccinated as soon as vaccine is available.

Program description - May 2026

Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of animal care with our one-year Ontario College Certificate Veterinary Assistant program, specifically tailored to provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist other veterinary professionals, such as Registered Veterinary Technicians and Veterinarians. This program is an excellent fit for those passionate about animals, and we highly recommend prior experience with animals through pet ownership, volunteering, or working in animal facilities.

The program will equip you with skills for safely handling and restraining various large and small animals, animal grooming techniques, and basic diagnostic techniques through laboratory procedures and physical observation. You will also learn surgical support techniques, shelter animal care, and office and client relationship skills.

One of the unique aspects of our program is the humane approach to animal-related education. We use simulation, advanced models, and true-to-life scenarios to focus on skills development. This innovative approach allows students to learn, practice, master skills, and apply their knowledge without any risk to actual animals. To ensure a well-rounded learning experience, the program includes hands-on laboratory practice and a work placement in an animal care facility. This practical experience in your second semester will reinforce your learning and prepare you for a fulfilling career in veterinary or other animal care settings. Your journey towards becoming a proficient Veterinary Assistant starts here.

For those interested in continuing their studies in the Veterinary Technician program, pathways to help you achieve your goal are available to qualified students.

Program details

Code: 1548
Start: May 2026
Campus: Kitchener – Doon
Delivery: Hybrid
Length: 1 year
Credential: Ontario College Certificate

Program contact


Academic school

Community Services

Events at Conestoga
Conestoga College

​Join one of our events to find out more about Conestoga. Connect with staff, current students, and future Condors to see how Conestoga is right for you.

Tuition & fees

Listed below are the tuition and fee details for the 2025-2026 academic year (September 2025 to August 2026) for your selected intake. Books and supplies may be additional.

Tuition and fee details for terms starting September 2026 and later will be available Spring 2026.

1 Term

Canadian

International

Tuition
$1844.50
$7513.00
Ancillary Fees
$1959.71
$2515.88
Total Fees
$3804.21
$10028.88

Canadian fee details

Description Spring 2026
Program Tuition Fee (ACR) $1844.50
Administration Fee $25.00
Capital Development Fee $84.22
CSI Advocacy Fee $8.16
CSI Association Fee $104.04
CSI Extended Health & Dental Plan Fee $116.82
CSI Legal Care Fee $20.10
CSI UPass Fee $124.91
*eText Fee $551.00
Graduation/Alumni Services Fee $20.00
HST $44.46
ONE Card Fee $8.50
Recreation/Athletics Fee $71.50
Student Services $89.00
*Supply Fee (Taxed) $342.00
Technology Enhancement Fee $110.00
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Documentation Fee $115.00
CSI - Student Welcome Kit Fee (optional) $75.00
CSI Student Club & Society Fee (optional) $10.00
CSI Student Events Fee (optional) $35.00
Sustainability Fee (optional) $5.00
Term Total $3804.21

*The fee listed is for the current academic term and is subject to change. Confirmed costs will appear on your registration invoice. For the most up-to-date eText and course materials pricing, please refer to your personalized booklist.

Returning student tuition & fees

View all Canadian tuition & fee details for all levels
View all International tuition & fee details for all levels

International fee details

Description Spring 2026
International Program Tuition $7513.00
Administration Fee $25.00
Capital Development Fee $84.22
CSI Advocacy Fee $8.16
CSI Association Fee $104.04
CSI College Int'l Health Insurance Plan (CIHIP) $196.35
CSI Extended Health & Dental Plan Fee $101.64
CSI Legal Care Fee $20.10
CSI UPass Fee $124.91
*eText Fee $551.00
Graduation/Alumni Services Fee $20.00
HST $44.46
ISR (International Student Recovery) $375.00
ONE Card Fee $8.50
Recreation/Athletics Fee $71.50
Student Services $89.00
*Supply Fee (Taxed) $342.00
Technology Enhancement Fee $110.00
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Documentation Fee $115.00
CSI - Student Welcome Kit Fee (optional) $75.00
CSI Student Club & Society Fee (optional) $10.00
CSI Student Events Fee (optional) $35.00
Sustainability Fee (optional) $5.00
Term Total $10028.88

*The fee listed is for the current academic term and is subject to change. Confirmed costs will appear on your registration invoice. For the most up-to-date eText and course materials pricing, please refer to your personalized booklist.

Returning student tuition & fees

View all Canadian tuition & fee details for all levels
View all International tuition & fee details for all levels

Financial assistance

The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs-based program designed to help eligible Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance (grants and loans) for educational costs and living expenses. The amount of funding you are eligible for depends on your program, course load, educational and living expenses, and financial situation. Apply for assistance on the OSAP website and visit OSAP & aid for more information.

Awards & scholarships

Student Financial Services awarded more than 400 awards, scholarships and bursaries last year.

Search for awards.

Delivery sequence - May 2026 - Kitchener – Doon

FALL WINTER SPRING
   Class
Class