Getting a rejection from PA school can feel like a punch to the gut, especially after all the hard work you’ve put into your CASPA application. But here’s the thing: a rejection isn’t the end of the road—it’s just a detour. In fact, many successful PAs faced rejection at least once before getting into their dream school. So, what do you do now? Let’s break down how to reassess, make improvements, and set yourself up for a stronger application next time.

Step 1: Take Time to Process

First things first: give yourself some time to process the rejection. It’s completely normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even a little lost. You’ve worked so hard, and it’s okay to take a step back and acknowledge those feelings.

But after you’ve processed, it’s time to shift your mindset. Rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth or your potential as a future PA. It’s just feedback. And, in the long run, feedback can be incredibly valuable.

Step 2: Request Feedback from PA Programs

Some PA programs are willing to provide feedback on your application if you ask. While not all schools will offer this, it’s definitely worth reaching out to the programs that rejected you to see if they can give you some insight. Was it your GPA? Healthcare experience? Personal statement? Knowing where you fell short can give you a roadmap for improvement.

When requesting feedback, keep your email professional, respectful, and to the point. Here’s an example of what to say:

Example Email:

Subject: Request for Feedback on PA School Application

Dear [Contact Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I recently received notification that I was not selected for the [PA Program Name] for this application cycle. While I am disappointed, I appreciate your time and consideration, and remain passionate about pursuing a career as a physician assistant at your program and would appreciate any feedback you may have regarding my application. Understanding where I can improve will help me strengthen my application for the future.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Step 3: Reassess Your Application

Now that you’ve had time to reflect and, hopefully, received some feedback, it’s time to reassess your application. Let’s take a closer look at each part:

1. GPA

• If your GPA was on the lower side, consider retaking some prerequisite courses to boost your overall GPA or science GPA. Even improving a couple of key prerequisite grades can make a big difference.

2. Healthcare Experience

• Were your patient care experience (PCE) hours lower than most accepted applicants? PA schools love seeing hands-on experience, so consider gaining more hours before reapplying. Volunteering or working in new specialties can also strengthen your experience.

3. Personal Statement

• Was your personal statement compelling enough? It’s crucial that your essay tells your unique story and explains why you want to become a PA. If you feel your statement wasn’t as strong as it could have been, now is the time to refine it.

4. Letters of Recommendation

• Did you choose the right recommenders? Strong letters from supervisors, PAs, or healthcare professionals who know you well can make a big difference. Consider asking new people to write your letters if you feel the ones you submitted didn’t fully reflect your strengths.

Step 4: Improve, Don’t Repeat

If you’re reapplying, don’t just submit the same application and hope for a different result. PA programs want to see growth and improvement. So, here’s where you focus your energy:

• Gain More Healthcare Experience: If this was a weak point in your application, seek out more opportunities to work directly with patients. Quality matters more than quantity, but getting a mix of experiences can show your commitment.
• Shadow PAs in Different Specialties: Shadowing a PA can not only strengthen your application but also deepen your understanding of the profession. If you’ve already shadowed in one area, try shadowing in a different specialty to show versatility.
• Take Additional Courses: Whether it’s retaking a prerequisite or enrolling in a new subject, boosting your academic profile can make a significant difference. Some PA applicants even take upper-level science courses to show their academic growth.
• Revise Your Personal Statement: Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted personal statement. If you weren’t successful this time around, your story might need refining. Be sure to connect your experiences with why you’re passionate about becoming a PA.

Step 5: Reapply Strategically

When you’re ready to reapply, it’s important to approach the process strategically. Here are some tips:

1. Research New Schools: If you applied to a limited number of programs the first time around, consider expanding your list. Look for schools where your stats and experiences align well with their average accepted applicant profile. *Apply to schools that require your strengths and do not require where you may be weaker*
2. Consider Your Stats: Be realistic about where you apply. If your GPA or healthcare experience hours are below the average for certain schools, focus on programs that are a better match.
3. Apply Early (But Not Rushed): While you don’t need to hit “submit” the second CASPA opens, you also don’t want to wait too long. Applying early in the cycle can give you an edge, especially at rolling admissions schools.

Step 6: Stay Positive and Persistent

Lastly, and most importantly, stay positive and persistent. Many PAs who are now thriving in their careers didn’t get in on their first try. Reapplying is part of the journey for many, and each step you take to improve your application brings you closer to achieving your goal.

Don’t see rejection as a failure—it’s just part of the process. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep pushing forward. You’ve got this!

Final Thoughts

Rejection is tough, but it’s not the end of your journey to becoming a PA. With some reflection, improvement, and strategic planning, you can come back stronger and more prepared for the next application cycle. If you need personalized help with your CASPA application, reapplying, or improving specific sections, reach out to us. We’re here to help you succeed!