You are applying to PA school this cycle! That’s awesome! But hold up— let’s talk about something super important: applying early.

What’s the Deal with Early Applications?

Alright, here’s the lowdown: when it comes to applying to PA school via CASPA (that’s the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants), timing is everything. You see, PA programs often operate on rolling admissions, which means they review applications and dish out interviews on a first-come, first-served basis. Which means if you are applying to rolling admissions PA schools, you MUST apply early to hack rolling admissions.

So, What’s Considered “Early”?

Now, you might be wondering, “What exactly does ‘early’ mean in the world of PA school applications?” Here’s where it can get twisty. Each PA school has a different deadline, so one PA school might have a deadline of July, and another December. So “early” also depends on when they stop accepting applications. Again, for rolling admissions, sooner is always better. For that school that has a July deadline, you need to be hitting submit ASAP when the new CASPA cycle opens at the end of April. For the PA school with the later deadline of December, you have more wiggle room. Aim to have your application ready to roll – which means having all your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statement squared away ahead of time. It’s all about getting your ducks in a row, knowing the in’s and out’s of the PA schools you are applying to, and hitting that submit button sooner rather than later.

Let’s Break It Down

Here’s the deal: CASPA opens up for the new cycle and to receive submissions in late April each year. Some PA programs start reviewing applications as soon as they roll in (rolling admissions), while others might wait until they have received all of their applications up to their deadline, then start reviewing applications.

Why It Matters

So, why should you care about applying early? By getting your application in ASAP, you’re showing PA programs that you’re serious and you are able to hack rolling admissions. You’re giving yourself a leg up in the admissions game and increasing your chances of snagging an interview invite to these schools.

Final Words of Wisdom

Don’t procrastinate—start working on your application early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Oh, and one more thing—take a deep breath and trust in the process. You’ve got this!