The majority of PA programs have the following prerequisites:

• Two semesters of Chemistry with lab
  • Schools can be particular about which chemistry courses they prefer. Be sure to check the individual school websites.
• One semester of Human Anatomy and Physiology with lab
• One semester of Microbiology with lab
• One semester of Statistics
• One semester of Psychology

Other frequently required or recommended courses include:

• One or two semesters of General Biology
• One or two semesters of Organic Chemistry
• One semester of Genetics
• One semester of Biochemistry
• One semester of a Language (some schools require coursework in Spanish)
• One semester of Medical Terminology
• One semester of Public Speaking
• One or two additional courses in Social/Behavioral Sciences

PA schools want applicants to be committed to becoming a physician assistant, rather than to use their degree as a stepping-stone into medical school. Therefore, PA schools require between 500-2000 hours of previous clinical exposure prior to application. It is important to check the websites of the schools you are interested in for more specific information. Many students complete these hours after they have graduate by working in emergency services or healthcare facilities.

Refer to the Gaining Experience section for more information and resources regarding leadership and service, patient centered experience, and research.

The majority of PA schools require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) general exam, however some schools will accept the MCAT instead. Be sure to check the websites of the schools you are interested in to find out which test they accept or prefer.

Most U.S. physician assistant schools and programs utilize the online Central Application Service for Physicians Assistants (CASPA).

The CASPA application becomes available in late April the year before matriculation and close in March of the year of matriculation.

The number and type of letters of recommendation required varies from school to school.