PA School Requirements & Application Guide

Introduction

• Becoming a PA = challenging but rewarding.

• Requirements include: bachelor’s degree, prerequisites, healthcare experience, GPA, GRE (some schools), essays, recommendations, and interviews.

• Each program sets its own standards → always confirm directly.

Degree Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree required (any major, but science-heavy helps).

• Some combined BS/MS programs exist.

• Must complete an ARC-PA–accredited master’s program → take PANCE → earn state license

Course Prerequisites

Core (almost always required):

• Chemistry (2 semesters + lab)

• Biology (2 semesters + lab)

• Microbiology (1 semester + lab)

• Anatomy (1 semester + lab)

• Physiology (1 semester + lab)

Common Non-science:

• English (2 semesters)

• Statistics (1 semester)

• Psychology (1 semester)

To be more competitive:

• Organic chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, medical terminology

• Physics, sociology/humanities, foreign language

Note: AP credits often not accepted. Must finish prereqs before matriculation.

Major Requirement

• No required major. Choose one that:

  • Fits prereqs.

  • Supports a high GPA.

  • Highlights healthcare/people focus (e.g., biology, psychology, nutrition, kinesiology, foreign language).

• Key: Passion + GPA > major itself.

GPA Requirement

• Most schools: minimum 3.0 (some higher/lower).

• PA schools check:

  • Overall GPA

  • Science GPA

  • Non-science GPA

  • CASPA BCP GPA (biology, chemistry, physics)

• Competitive averages (PAEA 2021):

  • Overall: 3.6 | Science: 3.5 | Non-science: 3.6 | BCP: 3.5

• Aim above averages; retake Cs if possible.
  
  

GRE Requirement

• ~50% of PA schools require GRE (some allow MCAT).

• Retake-friendly: up to 5x/year, send only best scores.

• Common minimum: 295 total; average matriculant ~305.8.

• Plan early → leave room for retakes.

Healthcare Experience Requirement

• One of the most critical factors.

• Schools vary: 0–2,000+ hours required. Competitive programs often expect 1,000–2,000+

Experience Types (CASPA categories + avg. hours of matriculants):

• Patient care (hands-on, direct responsibility): EMT, CNA, phlebotomist, RN (avg. 3,235 hrs)

• Healthcare (support roles): scribe, vitals, food delivery (avg. 1,470 hrs)

• Shadowing: esp. with a PA (avg. 157 hrs)

• Volunteering: non-clinical (avg. 432 hrs)

• Research, leadership, teaching, extracurriculars (no average given, but valuable).

• Non-healthcare work: included (avg. 1,966 hrs).

Strategy: Track hours in a spreadsheet, consider CNA/EMT training, and possibly take a gap year to build hours.

Essays

CASPA Personal Statement (5,000 characters)

• Prompt: Why PA?

• Tips: Start early, show (don’t tell), focus on you, use storytelling, strong intro/conclusion.

CASPA Life Experiences Essay (2,500 characters)

• Prompt: How have your life experiences helped you empathize with patient communities?

• Highlight resilience, adversity, cultural awareness, or communication skills.

• Distinct from personal statement (no repetition).

Letters of Recommendation

• 3–5 required via CASPA.

• Best sources: practicing PA/physician, healthcare supervisor, science professor.

• Give 1–2 months notice, provide résumé + program list.

• Quality > title.

Application Process (CASPA Timeline)

Feb–Mar:

• Confirm recommenders, take/retake GRE.

Apr–Aug:

• CASPA opens (late April).

• Submit CASPA + supplements (many deadlines by Sept 1).

Sept–Jan:

• Interviews

Feb–Mar:

• Admission decisions.

Fall:

• Begin PA school.

Key Takeaway: To be a competitive PA applicant, aim for:

• 3.5+ GPA (especially in science)

• 1,000–2,000+ direct patient care hours

• Strong GRE (305+)

• Polished essays and recommendations

• Organized, early application through CASPA