The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched new initiatives to address the nationwide shortage of veterinarians in rural areas—a challenge driven by high student debt and limited incentives for rural practice.

What’s New?

• More Funding for Loan Repayment: USDA is adding $15 million to the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program (VMLRP). This program provides substantial loan forgiveness for veterinarians who commit to serving in federally designated shortage areas. With this increase, more applicants will receive awards, helping to alleviate the average veterinary school debt of over $202,000.

• Streamlined Applications: Starting in December, VMLRP applications for FY2025–FY2026 will move to an online portal. The process will require less documentation and eliminate unnecessary steps, making it faster and easier for qualified veterinarians to apply. USDA is also considering reducing annual reporting requirements for award recipients.

• Expanded Support Programs: The Veterinary Services Grant Program (VSGP) continues to fund initiatives that strengthen veterinary services in rural communities. This includes Education, Extension, and Training grants to support recruitment and retention, and Rural Practice Enhancement grants to help establish or expand veterinary practices in underserved areas.

• Revitalized Internships & Scholarships: USDA is enhancing career pathways through programs like the Saul T. Wilson, Jr. Internship Program (VS), Chester A. Gipson Internship Program (AC), and Adel A. Malak Scholarship Program (FSIS) with increased tuition reimbursement up to $40,000 per year for graduate students starting in 2026.

These changes aim to reduce student debt, improve access to veterinary care in rural communities, and ensure a robust workforce to protect animal health, food safety, and U.S. trade.

Check out the full details in the USDA Rural Veterinary Action Plan.