Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closing date for Symco 2025 applications?

December 2025. Final dates to be confirmed 

When will I find out if my application has been successful?

  • After the closing date for applications (December 2025), each application that was submitted will be thoroughly assessed by the Applications & Selections board of our committee.
  • Once this process is completed, we will inform the successful delegates as soon as possible.
  • We will ensure that the successful delegates have sufficient time to plan their flights, financial planning, visas, etc.

How many days is the SYMCO 2025 tour? 

  • 2-3 weeks (usually about 18 days)
  • Action-packed days, filled with relevant informative lectures, and hands-on wildlife experience.

Do I have to pay an application fee when applying?
  • No.
  • There are no financial obligations required when submitting your application.
  • Once the applications process is finalised and the delegates have been selected, we will personally inform the newly selected delegates of the required payments.

Is the SYMCO 2025 tour only available to veterinary students?

  • Yes.
  • SYMCO 2025 is a symposium dealing with veterinary involvement in wildlife management. It serves as a platform for a variety of leading speakers to address veterinary students on a host of wildlife management topics and the role of the veterinarian in wildlife utilization.
  • Our focus is on involving and exposing veterinary students from around the world to South African wildlife and conservation.

Can I receive EMS (extra mural studies) hours / university credits for activities completed on the tour? 

  • Yes, this has been possible in previous years.
  • Please contact your department / faculty and find out what they require from us in terms of talks, field experience, veterinarians or professors, as well the number of hours within each requirement. 
  • Once this is approved, your department / faculty must send you a form that you can bring with you or we will create a form for you (if they prefer).
  • You will then have it signed and stamped by the relevant field veterinarians or lecturers at each activity while you are on the tour here in South Africa.

How will I get from the airport to the location of the start of the tour? 

  • A committee member will meet you upon landing at OR Tambo International Airport.
  • We will then be providing transport in the form of shuttle busses from OR Tambo International Airport to Onderstepoort Veterinary Campus (the start of the SYMCO 2023 tour).

Will the tour be documented & will I receive a copy of the media? 

  • Yes.
  • We will have a professional photographer and videographer travelling with us for the entire tour.
  • The entire adventure will be captured in a most beautiful and memorable way.
  • You will receive a digital copy of the high quality photographs and videos or a link to a site to download the relevant media.

Questions still unanswered? 

  • Please email us your question to tyla@symco.co.za and we will reply to it ASAP.