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College to explore new system for language testing
Councillors decided to explore the option of the Occupational English Test (OET), which focuses on communicating in a healthcare setting.
Proof of language ability could be extended to EU citizens post-Brexit

The RCVS will explore a new system of language testing for overseas graduates who wish to join the register after Brexit.

Under current arrangements, the college is legally required to have only limited requirements for proof of language ability from EU applicants.

For non-EU overseas applicants, however, a higher standard of evidence is required. Those who hold a veterinary degree that is not recognised by the RCVS and are not native English speakers must pass the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test at Level 7.

EU applicants can only have their English language ability tested if the college has ‘serious and concrete doubts’ about individual applicants when they visit Belgravia House to formally join the register.

RCVS Council members were asked to consider how this system may need to change when the UK leaves the EU, at the latest meeting in November.

Councillors decided to explore the option of the Occupational English Test (OET), which focuses on communicating in a healthcare setting. It is currently used by a number of UK health regulators and veterinary regulators in Australia and New Zealand. The OET Level B is the equivalent of IELTS Level 7.

This will now be further explored, with proposals coming back to a future meeting of the council.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.