How to become a Resident

Pathway to Become an ECAR Resident

There are two approved routes to enter residency training with ECAR:

1. Standard Residency Programme.

2. Alternative Residency Programme.


1. Standard Residency Programme

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be eligible to practice veterinary medicine in a European country.

  • Must have satisfactory moral and ethical standing.

  • Must have completed:

    • 1 year of general clinical training in an academic institution, or

    • ~2 years of equivalent experience in private practice.

Application Process

  • Submit:

    • A curriculum vitae.

    • A letter of intent.

    • A supporting letter from the proposed Resident Supervisor.

  • Submit the full application to the College Board within 12 months of starting the programme.

  • Two deadlines per year: February 1st and October 1st.

Training Requirements

  • 3 years minimum (up to 6 years maximum).

  • At least 2 years under direct supervision at an approved training institution.

  • 1 year for research, teaching, or less supervised clinical practice.

  • Option for part-time residency (must be completed in 6 years).

Focus Areas (Subspecialities)

  • (a) Small animal reproduction.

  • (b) Equine reproduction.

  • (c) Ruminant reproduction and herd health.

  • (d) Porcine reproduction and herd health.

  • (e) Reproductive biotechnology.

Supervision

  • Must be supervised by an active ECAR Diplomate.

  • Monthly formal meetings required with the Supervisor.

  • Progress must be documented in:

    • A case diary.

    • An activity diary.

    • Annual Supervisor progress reports. 


2. Alternative Residency Programme

For veterinarians not affiliated with academic institutions, but who are actively working in animal reproduction.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be eligible to practice veterinary medicine in Europe.

  • Must have a satisfactory moral and ethical record.

  • Must have worked in veterinary practice or equivalent for at least 2 years.

  • Must devote ≥60% of work time to animal reproduction.

Application Process

  • Submit a curriculum vitae, letter of intent, and Supervisor’s letter.

  • Include a case diary from the past two years.

  • Submit to the College Board by February 1st or October 1st.

  • Education & Residency Committee reviews and advises the Board.

Training Duration

  • Minimum 5 years, up to 6 years.

  • At least last 3 years under ECAR Diplomate supervision.

Supervision

  • Regular monthly contact with the Supervisor.

  • Option to appoint co-supervisors for broader case exposure.


Final Notes

  • Both programmes require:

    • Documented training and clinical case logs.

    • Attendance at scientific meetings.

    • Publications (minimum two peer-reviewed articles).

    • Annual review and approval by the Education & Residency Committee.

  • Examination eligibility is granted only after successful residency completion and approval.