ATLANTA, GA – Today, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper has announced that the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) has begun accepting applications for the 2027 cycle of the Georgia Veterinary Education Loan Repayment Program (GVELRP). Eligible veterinarians have until Monday, November 2nd, 2026, to submit their applications.
The GVELRP provides student loan repayment assistance to licensed veterinarians who commit to practicing in designated rural areas of Georgia and delivering veterinary care for food animals in communities with critical shortages.
“The GVELRP is an important investment in the future of veterinary care across rural Georgia,” said Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “By helping veterinarians establish their practices in communities where their expertise is needed most, we are strengthening the services available to our farmers and livestock producers while supporting the health and vitality of rural communities. I encourage qualified veterinarians to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for the 2027 program.”
Program Overview:
To qualify for the GVELRP, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have lawful presence in the United States
- Reside in Georgia
- Be either a licensed practicing veterinarian or a veterinary student in their final year of study
- Commit to working in a Board-approved rural county (population of 50,000 or less)
Detailed GVEDLRP information is available at https://agr.georgia.gov/vet-education-loan-repayment-program.
Completed applications and inquiries about the program can be made via email to: statevetedboard@agr.georgia.gov. The State Veterinary Education Board will review, determine, and announce award recipients later in the year.