If you’ve been researching PA programs, you’ve probably seen the phrase “holistic admissions” more times than you can count. But what does that actually mean? Does it mean grades don’t matter? Does it mean your personal statement is more important than your GPA? Does it mean you have to have a tear-jerking life story to get accepted?
The short answer: No.
PA schools that use a holistic admissions process evaluate applicants based on multiple factors, not just GPA or test scores. This means they consider your experiences, personal attributes, and potential contributions to the PA profession alongside your academic stats. But make no mistake—academics still matter.
So, let’s break down exactly what holistic admissions means and how you can use it to your advantage when applying to PA school!
What Does Holistic Admissions Actually Mean?
Holistic admissions is an evaluation approach where PA schools consider the whole applicant rather than focusing on just one aspect, like GPA or GRE scores. Schools that use a holistic review aim to admit students who not only meet academic requirements but also have qualities and experiences that make them a great future PA.
A holistic review generally includes:
- Academic Readiness – GPA, science courses, GRE or PA-CAT (if required)
- Healthcare & Patient Care Experience – Quality and quantity of experience matter
- Shadowing Experience – Direct exposure to the PA role
- Letters of Recommendation – Insight from professionals who know you well
- Personal Statement & Supplemental Essays – Your “why” for becoming a PA
- Community Service & Volunteering – A track record of compassion and service
- Leadership & Teaching Experience – Shows initiative and the ability to mentor
- Diversity of Experience – Unique experiences that make you stand out
- Interview Performance – Communication, professionalism, and fit for the program
Bottom Line: Schools want well-rounded candidates who can handle the academics, but also have the soft skills, patient experience, and passion that make a great PA.
Do PA Schools Still Care About GPA?
Yes—your GPA is still one of the main things PA schools look at. Many programs have minimum GPA requirements (typically 3.0 overall and 3.0 science), but a holistic review means that if your GPA is lower, other parts of your application can help compensate. Note, even if a PA school reviews your application holistically, you still MUST meet their minimum prerequisite requirements.
How to Strengthen This Area
- Take upper-level science courses to boost your science GPA
- Retake low-grade prerequisite courses
- Show strong upward trends in your academic history
How Can You Stand Out in a Holistic Review?
Even if you have a competitive GPA, PA programs are looking for more than just numbers. Here are some ways to set yourself apart in a holistic admissions process:
1. Strengthen Your CASPA Experience Entries
PA schools want to see high-quality healthcare and patient care experience. Instead of just listing what you did, focus on how you contributed and what you learned.
2. Write a Personal Statement That Shows Growth & Passion
Your personal statement should not just explain why you want to be a PA—it should tell a story about how your experiences have prepared you for this role.
- Talk about a defining moment in healthcare that shaped your desire to become a PA
- Show how you’ve grown and developed relevant skills
- Emphasize your unique strengths that will make you a great PA
3. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Choose recommenders who can speak to your strengths as a future PA. A generic letter from a professor who barely knows you won’t help much. Ideally, you should have:
- A PA mentor who has seen you interact with patients
- A supervisor or professor who can attest to your work ethic and character
- A healthcare provider who has worked with you in a clinical setting
4. Show Dedication to Service & Leadership
PA schools value compassion and leadership. If you have volunteering, teaching, or leadership roles, be sure to highlight them! These demonstrate commitment to serving others and the ability to mentor and lead—both of which are valuable PA skills.
Examples:
- Volunteering at a free clinic
- Mentoring pre-health students
- Leading a campus pre-PA club
5. Crush the Interview
The final step in the holistic admissions process is your PA school interview. Programs want to see:
- Strong communication skills
- Professionalism and confidence
- A clear understanding of the PA role
- Your “why” for becoming a PA
Practicing for both traditional and MMI interviews is key. Be ready to talk about your experiences, ethical scenarios, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
So… Does Holistic Admissions Mean It’s “Easier” to Get Accepted?
Not exactly. PA schools still have competitive requirements, but holistic admissions means that if you have a lower GPA, you’re not automatically out.
However, it does NOT mean:
- You can have a super low GPA and expect to get in
- Schools will ignore weak essays or poor interview performance
- You don’t need patient care experience
Instead, it means that PA schools value the whole picture. They want students who bring diverse experiences, strong interpersonal skills, and a clear passion for the profession.
Final Thoughts: How to Succeed in a Holistic PA School Review
If PA schools are reviewing applicants holistically, your job is to make every part of your application count.
- If your GPA is lower, make sure your PCE, essays, and shadowing are top-notch.
- If you have strong academics, use your personal statement & interview to stand out.
- Emphasize leadership, service, and a passion for healthcare.
PA schools don’t just want students who are smart on paper—they want future PAs who will be great providers.
Are you ready to make every part of your CASPA application as strong as possible? Need help with your personal statement, experience descriptions, or making your PA school application stand out?
👉 Check out CASPA Application Editing – which includes editing of your entire app, all your experience entries, personal statement, and COVID and life experience essay – to make sure your application is exceptional!