Animal Welfare Assessment Contest
November 7-9, 2025 | Texas A&M University
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
Fall 2025 contest
The fall contest will be held November 7-9, 2025 at Texas A&M University. Attendees can take part in educational tours, a social/networking event, live and computerized scenarios, oral presentations of assessments, and an awards reception.
Species covered in the fall 2025 contest:
- Live: Tilapia aquaculture
- Pet gerbil
- Snakes in a zoo
- Dressage horse
Participants should be prepared to assess the welfare of all aspects of each species situation, including but not limited to transport, housing, health, training, retirement, production, slaughter/euthanasia, etc.
Registration opens summer 2025.
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.