Physician Assistant School
Overview
- Any major is acceptable for applying to physician assistant programs. Common majors include Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry Exercise Science and Psychology. View our majors
- Some schools require the GRE. Learn more about the GRE
- Ready to get started on the application process? How to apply and timeline
- Where have Cal Lutheran students been accepted? See the partial list of PA programs attended
Applying to Physician Assistant Programs
What is Physician Assistant Program Application Assistance Program?
The Physician Assistant Program Application Assistance Program at CLU is a free service to assist CLU students and alumni with the application process for Physician Assistant programs.
Prerequisites
Most PA programs have the following prerequisites. Courses may vary, so make sure
to check with the program you are interested in.
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry,
English Composition/Writing, Genetics, Medical Terminology, Psychology (general),
Statistics
Resume Assistance and Reviews
Whether you are just getting started with putting together a resume or already have one in place, Career Services can help you with getting it ready for healthcare related internships or for Physician Assistant program applications. Access samples in the document library and upload your rough draft for a counselor to review in clupostings, attend a resume writing workshop or schedule an appointment with a career counselor. A resume is a crucial part of the application process, you'll want to make sure it's in the correct format and includes everything you need!
Do I Need an Internship?
Yes! Many Physician Assistant programs require clinical experience and a specific number of hours or type of experience. Not only do internships look great on your resume and applications, but it also helps you decide if Physician Assistant programs and a career in healthcare is the right fit. Internships are also a great way to establish contacts in the field for informational interviews and possible letters of recommendation. Learn more about internships here and how Career Services can help you find one.
Personal Statement Resources and Reviews
A written statement is required as part of the application process. Prompts and requirements may vary by school, but Career Services has tip sheets and samples and can review your first draft once you have it completed.
GRE Exam and Test Prep Info
Some schools will require you to take the GRE. For those that require it, a good score is essentail to get into Physician Assistant programs. Learn more about the GRE format of the test and ways to prepare to get the score you want.
How will my letters be sent to schools?
Letters are uploaded directly to CASPA by letter writers. Once you enter their information into the letter of recommendation section of the application they will receive an email with a link to upload thier letter.
To apply to Physician Assistant programs you will complete a primary application through CASPA (Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants). The basic components of the application are below and may vary from school to school.
- Personal Information (contact information and personal data sections)
- Academic History (schools attended, coursework and tests section: GRE, TOEFL -varies by school)
- Supporting Information (letters of receommendation, experiences, achievements, licenses and certifications, essay and memberships)
- Program Materials (additional application requirements)
A CASPA cycle runs from April each year until the following April. Some programs favor early applicants who submit in May or June while others take applications through the following April. Application deadlines and program start dates vary.
Physician Assistant Schools Attended
A partial list of physician assistant schools our students have been accepted to:
- A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
- CSU Monterey Bay
- DeSales University
- Duke University
- King's College
- Loma Linda University
- Marist College
- Marshall B. Ketchum University
- Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
- Midwestern University
- Pacific University
- Point Loma Nazarene University
- Sacred Heart University
- Samuel Merritt University
- South University
- Southern California University of Health Sciences
- Stanford University
- The George Washington University
- The University of Toledo
- Touro University California
- University of California, Davis
- University of Florida, College of Medicine
- University of Southern California
- University of St. Francis
- University of the Pacific
- University of Washington, MEDEX Northwest (Kona, HI)
- Western University of Health Sciences