Students will need to check the admissions requirement for each school they plan to apply to. The most common prerequisite requirements for admission are:
Some programs will have additional requirements that you will need to meet.
Most programs will require applicants to have prior healthcare experience and a certain amount of healthcare experience hours for admission.
Students should check with each physician assistant program to see which exam is required for admission.
The GRE has six sections:
When should I take the GRE?
Students should take the GRE when they feel ready. Generally, the GRE is taken during your junior year of college. Students may decide to re-test to improve their score. Scores need to be back in time to meet the program deadlines. Check with the individual program to see how they will consider your scores for admission.
Create a study plan for the GRE:
Step 1: Gather Information about GRE
Step 2: Take a practice test
Step 3: Gather study materials
Step 4: Make a study calendar
Step 5: Study!
Step 6: Prepare for test day
How long are GRE scores valid?
GRE scores are valid for up to five years from your test date. Students should verify with each program if they will need newer scores.
Is the exam expensive?
The GRE costs $205.
The Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) opens on April 29, 2021, and closes on April 1, 2022. Individual programs set all application deadlines.
Students should complete their applications by the end of May/beginning of June.
Once students have certified and submitted their application and CASPA has received all required transcripts, the application enters the processing queue where the information will be verified. This process can take 6 – 8 weeks. Students are responsible for checking the status of their application to ensure it is error-free to avoid delays, which can result in missed deadlines.
CASPA offers a fee wavier to assist with the cost of the application.
FRESHMAN YEAR
SOPHOMORE YEAR
JUNIOR YEAR
SENIOR YEAR