Why? Physician assistant programs want applicants who are well-rounded. While they do take quantitative measures like GPA, hours of experience, and test scores into consideration, they will also review applications holistically. Getting involved in volunteer activities and other extracurriculars speak to who you are as a person, what you care about, and show that you …
Patient Care Experience
Why? Working with patients in a medical setting might be the most important part of an applicant’s pre-PA journey. Medical experience is the best way to be educated about working in the medical field; it promotes an appreciation for the healthcare team; and it teaches valuable skills that will apply to a career as a …
Standardized Tests
Why? As with coursework, PA schools will look at standardized test scores. They provide schools with an idea of how well applicants are prepared with the necessary background information. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), and Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT) are the commonly required standardized tests. Typically, schools will …
Prerequisite Coursework
Why? Programs will look at applicant GPA and prerequisite fulfillment as part of the application process. There are minimum requirements for each at almost all programs, which are listed on the program’s website. It is important to note that the GPA programs will see will be calculated by CASPA, which may differ from the GPA …
Shadowing
Why? PA programs want to see that you understand the PA profession. In my experience, shadowing was the best way to learn about PAs. Not only is this an opportunity to establish relationships with current PAs, but also to see what their role was on the health care team and how it varied between specialties …