Students often wonder if they should retake any of the prerequisite classes before applying to Physician Assistant (PA) school.
The answer to this is complicated because it depends on the schools you’re applying to, your other stats and the rest of your PA school application details.
PA admissions is a HOLISTIC process and everyone’s situation is unique to them and their experiences.
Though the decision is personal (and individualized)…
Here Are A Few Situations To Consider:
- If you have a “B” or better in your prerequisite class, then we don’t recommend retaking it. It won’t make a significant change in your GPA or application and your money and time is probably better spent focusing on other aspects of your PA school application, like getting PCE hours.
- If you decide to retake a course, make sure you ACE it! Retaking a course and getting the same grade (or lower) is NOT going to help your application. Since it’s the second time you’ve had this information we expect you to master it and get a high grade. If you don’t think you have the time or ability to perform excellently in a class then don’t retake it. That is just a waste of time and money, and you don’t want it to end up being a weakness on your app.
- Have one or two lower grades but not interested in retaking a course? Then take a few upper level science courses instead. This is a great way to show it wasn’t a lack of critical thinking or learning ability on your part, and it proves you can do well in upper level courses. Many schools look at grade trends and taking harder classes (and getting better grades in them) indicates your maturity and readiness for graduate learning.
- If a program requires a certain grade in a course, for example “nothing below a C in any prerequisite class”, then make sure you meet this requirement. Not meeting minimum application requirements can keep your application from getting considered for an interview and ultimately a seat at a PA program. Make sure you meet all minimum requirements before applying to individual PA schools.
Ultimately the choice is up to you on how to strengthen your application so take an honest assessment of your strengths and weaknesses to see if retaking courses will make you more competitive or if your time and money is better spent elsewhere.
If you aren’t sure what to do, book an Intensive Zoom session with us and we will walk you through your next steps so you have a solid plan for success so you can get accepted to PA school!