As an international SAVMA chapter member you qualify for several SAVMA national benefits. Here are answers to frequently asked questions SAVMA receives from international students at schools with a SAVMA chapter.

Q: Am I eligible to apply for SAVMA/AVMA scholarships?

A: Yes. As a student attending an AVMA-accredited institution, you are eligible to apply for all scholarships provided by the SAVMA committees.

Certain AVMF veterinary student scholarships also are available for international students.  Contact AVMF directly regarding scholarship eligibility.

Q: In regard to insurance, am I eligible for coverage through AVMA PLIT and AVMA LIFE?

A: The AVMA Trust has worked diligently to make sure SAVMA members are covered through AVMA PLIT when they are on placement in the U.S. At this time, AVMA LIFE coverage is only available to American citizens who travel back to the U.S. to practice or complete a rotation. Contact AVMA PLIT and AVMA LIFE directly about insurance eligibility.

Q: Am I allowed to attend AVMA/SAVMA conferences?

A: Absolutely! All active SAVMA members are welcome to attend SAVMA Symposium, AVMA Convention, the Veterinary Leadership Conference, AVMA legislative fly-ins, Chapter Summit, and more. Be mindful of any travel restrictions, and vaccination and health requirements for your destination.

Q: Am I able to read the AVMA journals?

A: Yes! All active SAVMA members have free access to read JAVMA online, and AJVR is an open-access, online journal.

Q: Where can I find information on what SAVMA is doing, how to get involved at my academic institution, or how to bring ideas to the table?

A: Identify your school's national SAVMA delegates and chapter president, and reach out to them to get involved with your chapter. Think about becoming a delegate or SAVMA chapter president yourself with the potential for additional leadership opportunities on the national level.

Follow these important social media pages as well to keep up to date on everything happening for students within AVMA, SAVMA, AVMA LIFE and AVMA PLIT.

• On Facebook and Instagram: @studentavma, @avmatruststudents and @avmavets
• On YouTube: Student AVMA and American Veterinary Medical Association

Q: Can I download the SAVMA app even though I have an international phone number?

A: Yes. The SAVMA app is available to download on all Apple and Android phones through the Apple and Google Play stores.

Q: As an international student am I eligible for an AVMA externship?

A: Yes. As long as you are an active SAVMA member, you are eligible to apply for AVMA externships.

Q: Can the AVMA and SAVMA give me more information about the NAVLE? I plan to practice in the U.S. when I qualify.

A: The best place for more information is the NAVLE website. The SAVMA Education and Professional Development Committee's webpage also has valuable information about NAVLE resources.

SAVMA is here for you! For more information about your SAVMA membership benefits, contact your local SAVMA chapter president.