So…you hit submit on your CASPA app weeks ago, your personal statement is practically etched into your brain, and your inbox checking habit is borderline obsessive.
No interview invites yet.
No rejections either.
Just…crickets.
At this point, you’re wondering—Should I email the schools I applied to?
Would that make me look eager…or annoying?
Will they love me more…or toss my app into a digital trash bin?
Let’s break this down.
The Short Answer: Yes—but Only If You Do It Right
Emailing PA schools isn’t a “Hail Mary,” but it can absolutely be a smart move—when timed right and done with the right tone and intention.
Let’s talk about how (and when) to hit send like a confident future PA, not a desperate inbox refresher.
1. Timing Is Everything
Before you whip up an email, ask yourself: Has it been long enough?
Here’s what we recommend:
- If you submitted your app less than 4–6 weeks ago, chill. Processing, verifying, and reviewing applications takes time. If they just opened your file, pestering them won’t help your case.
- If it’s been 6+ weeks and you’ve heard nothing—not even a “Thanks for your application!”—you’re in the safe zone to check in.
- If it’s been months and others are getting interviews and you’re still radio silent? That’s when a professionally written, respectful inquiry could make a difference.
📝 Pro tip: This is especially relevant if your app was verified later in the cycle or after the program’s deadline.
2. What to Say (And What Not to Say)
Your email should not sound like:
“Hi, I haven’t heard back. What’s going on???”
And it shouldn’t be 17 paragraphs long, either.
Keep it short, polite, and professional.
Here’s a quick template you can tweak:
Subject: Application Status – [Your Full Name]
Hi [Admissions Coordinator or School’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well! I submitted my CASPA application on [Submission Date], and I wanted to respectfully check in regarding the status of my application. Additionally, I would like to update you on my experiences. I have accrued [#] more shadowing hours with PAs, as well as [#] hours as a [PCE TITLE].
I remain very interested in the program and would be honored to be considered for an interview. Please let me know if there are any additional materials I can provide.
Thank you for your time and consideration!
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
CASPA ID: [Your CASPA ID]
✨ What this email does:
- It’s polite and respectful
- It shows continued interest
- It’s professional and succinct
- It gives them all the info they need to look you up
🙅🏻♀️ What it doesn’t do:
- Demand a response
- Overshare personal stress
- Include desperate emojis (yes, people do this)
3. Should You Send Updates with It?
Absolutely—if you’ve done something impressive since applying. Unless, a school says “Do not update/contact” this is okay.
Examples:
- You started a new PCE job or hit a milestone in your current role
- You completed another semester and your GPA went up
- You gained new shadowing hours, certifications, or awards
In that case, attach an “Application Update Letter” or briefly summarize the update in your email. You’re basically saying, “Hey, I’ve grown even stronger since applying. Just thought you’d want to know.” 💪
4. What If They Don’t Respond?
Totally normal.
Programs are busy, and some won’t reply even if they do see your email and make a note of it. Silence doesn’t always mean “no.” If you wrote a solid message, you’ve done your part. Now let it work its behind-the-scenes magic.
5. Final Thoughts: The Email Isn’t Everything
Your application, stats, experiences, and interview (when it comes) matter most. A well-crafted email won’t override poor stats—but it can give your name a little nudge in a pile of lookalike applicants.
It shows professionalism. It shows interest.
And sometimes, it shows up in the right inbox at the exact right time.
If you’re still hearing crickets after a CASPA cycle, we need to uncover what’s holding you back. Our CASPA App Editing Service is just the thing that you need if you aren’t landing interviews.
Our rule: if you aren’t landing interviews, there’s something wrong in your CASPA app and the schools your choosing. And if you aren’t landing a seat after an interview, there’s something happening in your interview answers. Don’t let either of these hold you back from your dream career.
🎯 Click here to get help with your CASPA app, emails, and more
Waiting sucks. Silence is hard. But your story isn’t over yet.
You’re allowed to follow up, advocate for yourself, and stay professional while doing it.
You’ve got this.