Standardized Tests

What are standardized tests and which one tests are required for PA school?

Standardized tests are exams designed to measure a student's knowledge, skills, and readiness for a specific field of study in a consistent manner. They provide a common benchmark that admissions committees can use to compare applicants from different educational backgrounds.

For PA schools, the two main standardized tests are the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and the PA-CAT (Physician Assistant College Admission Test):

GRE: This is a general test that measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. Some PA programs require the GRE to assess applicants' critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are essential in rigorous academic and clinical settings. However, many schools are moving away from requiring the GRE because it may not directly reflect an applicant's readiness for the specific challenges of PA training.

PA-CAT: This is a more specialized test designed specifically for PA program applicants. It covers topics like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and other medical sciences. Some PA schools may require the PA-CAT because it evaluates specific knowledge that aligns with the PA curriculum. However, not all programs require it, as they may prefer to assess applicants based on prerequisite coursework and clinical experience instead.

*Note that not all PA programs require a standardized test. It is your responsibility to be familiar with your desired program's admissions requirements.

GRE Resources

Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT)

The PA-CAT (Physician Assistant College Admission Test) is a relatively new standardized exam designed specifically for applicants to Physician Assistant (PA) programs. Unlike the GRE, which assesses general academic skills, the PA-CAT focuses on subject-specific knowledge relevant to the medical field. Here's a detailed breakdown of the exam:

Overview of the PA-CAT

• The PA-CAT is a specialized exam created to assess a student’s knowledge in medical science topics, aligning more closely with the coursework found in PA school.

• It tests knowledge in specific areas of science that are important for PA education, such as anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, making it a more field-specific test compared to the GRE.

Subjects Tested on the PA-CAT

The PA-CAT covers nine key science subjects that are relevant to PA school coursework. These subjects are:

• Anatomy: 15%

• Physiology: 15%

• General Biology: 12%

• Biochemistry: 10%

• Microbiology: 10%

• Behavioral Sciences: 10%

• General and Organic Chemistry: 10%

• Genetics: 9%

• Statistics: 9%

PA-CAT Structure

• The PA-CAT consists of approximately 240 multiple-choice questions.

• The test is computer-based and typically takes around 4-5 hours to complete, including breaks.

PA-CAT Resources