Final answer:
The essential criteria for CVTEA accreditation are the standards necessary for vet tech programs to be considered for accreditation, but the exact number of these criteria was not provided in the question.
Step-by-step explanation:
An essential criterion is something that is vitally necessary for a certain process, designation, or system to be considered adequate or complete. In the context of accreditation, such as for the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA), essential criteria refer to the standards that must be met for a vet tech program to receive accreditation. These criteria ensure that programs provide the highest level of education and training. However, the exact number of essential criteria for CVTEA accreditation is not specified in the provided question prompt. In order to provide an accurate response, additional information regarding the number of criteria set by the CVTEA would be necessary.