Animal Welfare Assessment Contest
AWJAC sponsor logos

The Animal Welfare Assessment Contest (AWJAC) provides a unique educational experience while strengthening student reasoning and communication skills. The competition teaches students to assess the welfare of animals in a variety of settings using science-based methods and reasoning. Students are given the opportunity to weigh evidence and present sound evaluations. This contest ensures that tomorrow's leaders in the animal industries acquire enhanced knowledge of animal welfare and develop strong communication skills.

The contest is open to veterinary students, undergraduates, and graduate students. Veterinary technicians and AVMA members can compete as non-placing participants.

Interested in becoming a judge? Apply for consideration for the two annual contests

Save the date

Join us for the spring virtual contest April 25-26, 2026.

Species covered in the spring 2026 virtual contest:

  • Show rabbits
  • Free range broilers

Registration information coming soon.

Get a sneak peek of the contest

Get an inside look at what the AVMA Animal Welfare Assessment Contest® (AWJAC) is all about. Hear from veterinary student attendees about their experiences and what to expect while participating in the contest.