It feels like there are a gazillion PA programs out there, right?!

And when it comes to getting accepted to PA school as quickly as possible, it boils down to highlighting yourself in your application AND applying to the right schools for YOU!

Choosing the right physician assistant (PA) school can be a daunting task, but there are several factors you can consider to help you make an informed decision.

Here are some steps you can take to pick the right PA school for you:

1. Research: Do your research and gather information about the PA schools that interest you. You can start by browsing the websites of various schools to learn about their curriculum, admission requirements, location, faculty, and student life. You can also read reviews and feedback from current and former students to get a sense of their experiences. We recommend you start by using this PA School Directory and deleting all the schools you don’t meet the prerequisites for and don’t match with, then highlighting the PA schools that require what you are strong in.
2. Admission requirements: Check the admission requirements of the school, such as the GPA, standardized test scores, clinical experience, and prerequisite courses. Make sure you meet the requirements and have a competitive application. Choose the PA schools that value the categories where you are a strong candidate.
3. Accreditation: Make sure the PA program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). This ensures that the program meets the standards for quality education and prepares you for the certification exam. (P.S. Provisional accreditation is considered accredited, just without the track record of a Continued status school because they are a new PA program)
4. Location: Consider the location of the school and the clinical sites. Choose a school that is in a location that suits your preferences and lifestyle. Also, consider the clinical sites where you will be doing your rotations and whether they are located in areas that interest you. Note: this should NOT be the first thing or the main thing you use to choose your schools…remember to start your PA school matching game with picking the schools that require and value where you shine as a pre-PA.
5. Curriculum: Look at the curriculum and make sure it aligns with your interests and goals. Consider the length of the program, the coursework, and the clinical rotations. Some schools may offer specialized tracks in areas such as primary care, emergency medicine, or surgery, so you should also consider whether a particular program offers the specialization you are interested in. Also consider if you want multiple elective rotation opportunities, as some schools have more than others.
6. Financial aid: Consider the cost of the program and the financial aid opportunities available. Look for scholarships, grants, and loan programs that can help you pay for your education.
7. Campus visit: If possible, schedule a campus visit or attend an open house to get a feel of the culture, faculty and overall atmosphere of the program. Is it somewhere you think you will thrive?

Overall, there are many factors to consider when choosing your Hot List of PA schools, but it’s imperative you pick the right schools for your specific stats and strengths.

If you need additional help with this, check out our Program Matching Bundle which includes our PA School Directory (mentioned above) AND an hour Zoom Program Matching session with us to choose the schools that fit you best for your highest chances of getting accepted this cycle.