Applying to PA school is competitive, and admissions committees are looking for well-rounded, prepared candidates who can handle the rigorous demands of the profession. But even strong applicants can have red flags on their application—things that make schools hesitate before offering an interview or a seat. The good news? Most red flags can be addressed or even turned into strengths if you know how to approach them.

Here are 10 common red flags that could hurt your PA school application and how to fix them before you hit submit!

1. Low GPA or Science GPA

Why it’s a red flag: PA schools want to make sure you can handle the rigorous coursework. A low GPA, especially in prereq science courses, may make them question your academic ability.

How to fix it:

• If your GPA is borderline, consider retaking key science courses to show improvement. Definitely make sure you ace them!
• Use your personal statement and supplemental essays to explain any challenges you faced and how you’ve grown from them.
• Highlight an upward trend in your grades or strong performance in upper-level courses.

2. Lack of Direct Patient Care Experience (PCE)

Why it’s a red flag: Many PA schools require a minimum number of PCE hours, and a lack of hands-on experience can signal that you’re unprepared for the realities of clinical work.

How to fix it:

• Gain experience in high-quality, hands-on roles like medical assistant, EMT, CNA, or phlebotomist.
• If you don’t have enough hours, look for part-time or per diem opportunities to boost your total before applying.

3. Weak or Generic Personal Statement

Why it’s a red flag: Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application. If it’s generic, cliché, or lacks a compelling story, it won’t stand out.

How to fix it:

• Focus on your unique journey to becoming a PA—what personal experiences shaped your decision?
• Avoid vague statements like “I want to help people” and instead give specific, personal examples that showcase your passion for the profession.
• Have an expert review your personal statement to make sure it’s strong and compelling.

4. Weak or Irrelevant Letters of Recommendation

Why it’s a red flag: If your letters of recommendation are from people who barely know you or aren’t in the medical field, it can weaken your application.

How to fix it:

• Get letters from PAs, physicians, professors, or supervisors who can speak to your clinical skills, work ethic, and professionalism.
• Build strong relationships with mentors well before you need their recommendation.
• Politely remind your recommenders of specific experiences they can highlight in their letter.

5. Too Many Withdrawals or Failing Grades

Why it’s a red flag: A pattern of withdrawals (Ws) or failing grades (Fs) can suggest a lack of commitment or difficulty managing coursework.

How to fix it:

• If you withdrew for a valid reason (illness, financial struggles, etc.), explain it in your application or a supplemental essay.
• Retake failed or withdrawn courses to show mastery of the material.
• Highlight your most recent academic success to prove you’ve improved.

6. No PA Shadowing Experience

Why it’s a red flag: PA schools expect you to understand the role of a PA, and shadowing is one of the best ways to demonstrate that knowledge.

How to fix it:

• Find shadowing opportunities ASAP by reaching out to PAs in clinics, hospitals, and through professional networks.
• If in-person shadowing is unavailable or to complement your in-person experiences, consider virtual PA shadowing to demonstrate understanding of PAs in a huge variety of specialties.
• In your application, discuss what you learned from shadowing and how it solidified your decision to become a PA.

7. Gaps in Healthcare Experience or Academics

Why it’s a red flag: Unexplained long gaps in work, volunteering, or academics can make admissions committees wonder what happened during that time.

How to fix it:

• Address long gaps proactively in your application or supplemental essays, especially if they were due to personal or family circumstances.
• If you took significant time off, explain how you used that time for personal growth, learning, or additional healthcare experience.

8. Unclear or Weak Answer to “Why PA?”

Why it’s a red flag: If you don’t have a clear reason for choosing the PA profession, it suggests you haven’t thought deeply about your career choice.

How to fix it:

• Be specific and intentional—why PA instead of MD, NP, or another healthcare role?
• Use shadowing experiences or personal patient interactions to demonstrate why the PA path is the best fit for you.

9. Poor Interview Skills

Why it’s a red flag: Even if your application is strong, a weak interview can cost you an acceptance. Schools want confident, professional, and well-prepared candidates.

How to fix it:

• Practice, practice, practice! Do mock interviews and get feedback from professionals with PA admissions experience.
• Prepare for common PA school interview questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why PA?” and ethical scenario questions.
• Focus on clear, confident communication and showcasing your personality while remaining professional.

10. Submitting a Rushed or Incomplete CASPA Application

Why it’s a red flag: If your application is full of typos, missing information, or rushed essays, it signals a lack of attention to detail—something that’s crucial in medicine.

How to fix it:

• Start early and review everything multiple times before submitting.
• Have your CASPA application edited for errors BEFORE you press submit.
• Make sure all sections of CASPA are complete, including experience details and essays.

Final Thoughts

Red flags don’t mean automatic rejection—but how you address them can make all the difference in whether you land an interview or not. The key is to be honest, proactive, and strategic in showing growth, resilience, and why you’re a strong candidate for PA school.