Humane Alliance

It was great to work so closely with an experienced surgeon like Dr. Saxton. She pushed me to be more efficient and precise, allowing me to achieve my full potential as a surgeon. "

-Jennifer Stecher, Iowa State University

How to Apply

Both of our veterinary externship programs are open to senior veterinary students attending AVMA-accredited colleges, who have completed at least the course and clinical surgery portion of their veterinary training.

To apply for the program, please follow the steps below.

Both of our veterinary externship programs are open to senior veterinary students attending AVMA-accredited colleges, who have completed at least the course and clinical surgery portion of their veterinary training.

To apply for the program, please follow the steps below.

Step 1: Indicate Your Interest

Indicate your course of interest (Extern, Extern Plus, or either) and graduating class to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . You will be contacted within five business days to discuss available dates.

Step 2: Begin Your Application

No later than one week after dates are confirmed, submit the Extern Application, which includes a 200-300 word personal statement in which you should describe your career goals and why you chose Humane Alliance's extern program. Please also submit a signed Memorandum of Understanding, which can be sent to  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

If selected, you will then be sent a pre-signed North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board Application for Interns & Preceptees (NCVMBA), as well as further instructions. 

Step 3: Apply for Your Temporary License

Approximately on the 6-month mark prior to your scheduled externship, complete and mail the NCVMBA to the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board, using the pre-signed license we sent. If the application form has changed in the interim, we will forward the revised version. The NCVMBA must also include:

  • A check or money order in the amount of $15;
  • One passport photo taken within the past six months;
  • A dean’s letter verifying your good academic standing and your current student status (e.g., full-time, fourth-year student);
  • A copy of your social security card.

Step 4: Submit Your Liability Insurance Coverage

Also around 6 months prior to your scheduled externship, submit proof of liability insurance coverage. If your university does not provide liability insurance, it can be obtained for $10 through the AVMA PLIT (a pre-signed application will be sent to you after Step 2 is completed). Please note that (student) AVMA membership is required if applying through AVMA PLIT.

Sponsored by:

Petsmart Charities ASPCA