PA School Resources

Our fact sheet for PA school is compiled from reputable internet sources and based on our work with previous students in the field. We hope it helps you navigate and simplify the cryptic admissions process.

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PA School Resources

Central Application Website

Top 10 Schools (US News)

  • Duke University
  • University of Iowa
  • Emory University
  • George Washington University
  • Oregon Health and Sciences University
  • Quinnipiac University
  • University of Colorado
  • University of Utah
  • University of Nebraska Medical Center
  • Wake Forest University

Degree Duration (typical)

  • 2 years

Application Opens

  • April 27

Application Deadline

  • Various - October 1

Standardized Tests Required

  • GRE or MCAT (some schools)

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Profile of a Successful Applicant

Recommended Test Score

  • 155+ verbal
  • 153+ quant
  • 4.0+ writing

Recommended GPA

  • 3.5+
  • 3.0 minimum for most schools

Course Requirements (varies)

  • Chemistry
  • Physiology
  • Anatomy
  • Microbiology
  • Biology

Letters of Rec

  • 3 required
  • (letters often come from PAs, science professors, or work supervisors)

Recommended Experience

1000+ hours as:

  • Medical assistant
  • Emergency medical technician (EMT)
  • Paramedic
  • Medic or medical corpsman
  • Peace Corps volunteer
  • Lab assistant/phlebotomist
  • Registered nurse
  • Emergency room technician
  • Surgical tech
  • Certified nursing assistant (CNA)

Typical Essay Requirement

  • Personal Statement (5000 characters)
  • Supplemental Essays (most schools)

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Timeline

6+ Months Before Applying

  • Take all pre-requisite courses (finishing by the date you apply is ideal)
  • Decide whom to ask for letters of recommendation
  • Make a GRE and/or MCAT Prep Plan
  • Sign up for a GRE and/or MCAT test date
  • Last chance to boost your profile by getting additional exposure to the field, leadership positions, research, etc.

0-3 Months Before Applying

  • Write your personal statement (allow yourself at least six weeks if possible)
  • Identify a list of schools to apply to - 10-15 is ideal
  • Order official transcripts from all undergrad institutions to check for errors and help fill out CASPA
  • Fill out CASPA
  • Touch base with letter writers
  • Submit your application early - the earlier the better!

After Applying

  • Send official test scores to schools (if necessary)
  • Complete school-specific essay questions
  • Practice your responses to sample interview questions, and do at least one mock interview
  • Update schools with any developments in your grades, employment, or activities
  • Fill out financial aid paperwork
  • Send in deposit to schools of your choice

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Links

Programs List

Overview of the Profession

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