What are your chances of getting into your dream PA school? We’ll outline the acceptance rates, median GPA, and average GRE scores for programs across the US, so you can determine exactly how you measure up.
The path to becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) involves a crucial first step: selecting the right program. Given the competitive and challenging nature of PA school admissions, it's essential to consider key statistics, like acceptance rates, in your decision-making process.
Familiarizing yourself with PA school acceptance rates is the key to making informed choices and strategically planning your application. In the upcoming sections, we’ll outline key stats for various PA programs and also break down how you can boost your chances of being accepted. Let’s get started!
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Physician Assistant Schools Acceptance Rates
In the United States, PA school admission rates are actually lower than medical school acceptance rates. While medical schools typically accept around 42% of applicants, the average acceptance rate for PA schools is only 31%. This discrepancy comes from several factors, including PA programs' high competitiveness and strict admission prerequisites.
Understanding the acceptance rates of PA programs across the country will help prospective students strategize their application plan their application strategy and direct them toward institutions that best match their academic and professional goals.
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List of Top 50 PA Schools in the USA
In this section, we’ve outlined the acceptance rate, median GPA, and median GRE scores for the country’s top 50 PA schools.
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
Duke University
10%
3.8
315
University of Iowa
15%
3.6
310
Emory University
12%
3.7
320
University of Washington
18%
3.5
315
Baylor College of Medicine
20%
3.8
325
Yale University
8%
3.9
330
University of Michigan
14%
3.6
310
University of Southern California
16%
3.7
320
George Washington University
12%
3.8
325
University of Colorado
20%
3.5
310
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
Northwestern University
10%
3.9
330
University of Florida
22%
3.6
315
University of Utah
18%
3.7
320
Wake Forest University
15%
3.8
325
Oregon Health & Science University
16%
3.6
315
Rutgers University
18%
3.5
310
Ohio State University
14%
3.7
320
University of Arizona
20%
3.6
315
University of Pennsylvania
10%
3.8
325
Indiana University
16%
3.5
310
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
Stanford University
8%
3.9
330
University of North Carolina
12%
3.7
320
Johns Hopkins University
10%
3.8
325
University of Pittsburgh
18%
3.6
315
Vanderbilt University
15%
3.7
320
University of Wisconsin
20%
3.6
315
University of California, Davis
16%
3.5
310
Boston University
14%
3.7
320
University of Virginia
12%
3.8
325
University of Illinois
18%
3.6
315
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
University of Minnesota
20%
3.5
310
Temple University
15%
3.7
320
Colorado School of Mines
22%
3.6
315
Dartmouth College
10%
3.9
330
Case Western Reserve University
14%
3.7
320
University of Maryland
16%
3.5
310
Medical University of South Carolina
18%
3.6
315
University of Massachusetts
20%
3.5
310
Georgetown University
12%
3.8
325
Tufts University
16%
3.6
315
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List of Top 25 PA Schools With High Acceptance Rates
Interested in PA schools with high acceptance rates? We’ve put together this table of 25 programs that are easier to get into.
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
Clinical Experience
University of North Dakota
40%
3.4
310
Required
University of North Texas HS Center Ft Worth
45%
3.5
315
Required
Harding University
50%
3.3
300
Required
University of Charleston
48%
3.6
320
Required
University of Lynchburg
42%
3.4
310
Not Required
Midwestern University (Glendale)
55%
3.5
315
Required
Drexel University
38%
3.7
325
Required
Touro University California
47%
3.6
320
Required
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
Clinical Experience
University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City
50%
3.3
300
Required
Northern Arizona University
46%
3.5
315
Required
Rutgers University
35%
3.8
330
Required
University of Alabama at Birmingham
60%
3.2
300
Required
University of Wisconsin – Madison
44%
3.6
320
Required
Hofstra University
52%
3.4
310
Required
Pace University-Lenox Hill Hospital, NYC
49%
3.5
315
Required
South University, West Palm Beach
58%
3.3
300
Not Required
PA Schools
Acceptance Rate
Median GPA
Median GRE
Clinical Experience
Nova Southeastern University, Jacksonville
43%
3.7
325
Required
Florida International University
56%
3.4
310
Required
Seton Hall University
36%
3.8
330
Required
University of Mount Union
53%
3.5
315
Not Required
Butler University
42%
3.6
320
Required
University of Bridgeport
45%
3.7
325
Not Required
Franklin Pierce University
39%
3.5
315
Required
University of St. Francis
50%
3.4
310
Not Required
Marietta College
48%
3.6
320
Required
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How Do You Increase Your Chances of Getting into PA School?
Increasing your chances of getting into PA school involves a combination of strategic planning, strengthening your qualifications, and presenting a compelling application. Here are some practical tips to enhance your prospects:
Strive for Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record, focusing on prerequisite courses required by PA programs. Aim for a GPA as close to 4.0 as possible to demonstrate your academic capability.
Clinical Experience: Gain relevant healthcare experience through internships, volunteering, or working in clinical settings. This demonstrates your commitment to and understanding of the healthcare field.
Strong Letters of Recommendation: Obtain compelling letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to your qualifications, work ethic, and suitability for a PA program.
Participate in Meaningful Extracurricular Activities: Engage in extracurricular activities that display leadership, teamwork, and community involvement.
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Write a captivating personal statement that highlights your passion, unique experiences, and why you are a strong fit for the PA profession.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready for interviews by practicing common questions and highlighting your unique qualities and experiences. Make sure to show enthusiasm, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the profession.
Do Your Research: Tailor your applications to programs that align with your goals, values, and strengths. Research each program thoroughly to demonstrate your genuine interest.
Apply Early: Submit your applications as early as possible to increase your chances, as many programs follow rolling admissions.
By focusing on these tips and submitting a well-rounded application, you can boost your chances of securing a spot in a PA program.
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FAQs: PA Schools Acceptance Rates in the USA – List and Main Stats
Still have questions about PA school acceptance rates? Take a look at these frequently asked questions to find your answers.
1. What Is the Average Acceptance Rate for PA Schools in the US?
The average acceptance rate for PA schools in the US is 31%.
2. What Is a Good GPA Score for PA Schools?
A competitive GPA for PA school admissions is typically around 3.5 or higher. However, it's essential to note that the acceptable GPA can vary among programs.
While some may have a minimum GPA requirement, others consider the overall strength of the application, taking into account factors like healthcare experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
3. Is a GRE Score Important to Get Into PA Schools?
The importance of GRE scores for PA school admissions varies among programs. While some PA schools require GRE scores as part of the application, others do not consider it at all.
It's crucial to carefully review the admission requirements of each program they are interested in to determine whether the GRE is necessary.
4. How Hard Are PA Schools Compared to Med Schools?
PA schools are generally considered less academically demanding and have a shorter duration compared to medical schools. Medical schools typically have a more extensive and rigorous curriculum, a longer duration of education, and a more competitive admissions process.
5. What Is the Average Acceptance Rate to PA Schools in California?
PA schools in California's acceptance rate is approximately 20%. However, rates might differ among individual programs within the state.
6. Is Healthcare Experience Necessary for PA School Admission?
Yes, healthcare experience is often considered a crucial component for PA school admission. Many PA programs seek applicants who have practical experience in healthcare settings, as it demonstrates a commitment to the field and provides valuable insights into the profession.
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Final Thoughts
Aspiring PA students should carefully consider acceptance rates as a vital aspect of their application strategy. Beyond maintaining a competitive GPA, obtaining strong GRE scores, and accumulating relevant healthcare experience, understanding the PA schools' acceptance rates is crucial.
Researching and selecting programs wisely, along with a well-crafted application, can significantly improve the chances of gaining admission to a PA school that aligns with both academic and professional aspirations.
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