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Michael
Student
Fallston, Maryland
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Is getting into a Physician Assistant Program competitive? How Competitive?
I am asking because I would like to become a P.A #physician #assistant
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Romy Lam
Physician Assistant at Las Palmas Emergency
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Romy’s Answer
Hello Michael!
I'm glad you are interested in PA school! Like with any great career, there's definitely competition. The general basic requirements required to apply is that you complete certain courses that will help you be prepared once you get in. These classes include Anatomy, physiology, mathematics, chemistry, +/- organic chem, basic biology, microbiology, english. Depending on specific program, these requirements may vary. Most programs also require that you have experience in the medical field. Some programs except volunteer experiences, some don't. The application process is through a centralized website where you would submit all of your recommendation letters information on all of your courses and transcripts, personal statement and your experiences. I believe that the programs look at your GPA, personal statement, reccomendation letters and experience in order to consider you as a candidate for interviews. So it does depend on a lot of different factors. Is it competitive? Most definitely. But because of all these requirements, if you lack in one area you may be able to make it up in others. Most program offer about 60ish seats per class. In those selected, there were probably about 4 times that (for my school anyway) and maybe even tripple the amount of interviewees who applied. Some of my coworkers reapplied for many years and they remained persistent until they got in. Just keep at it, work hard toward it if it's what you want, nevermind everyone else. If you are passionate about the profession, you will get there!
I'm glad you are interested in PA school! Like with any great career, there's definitely competition. The general basic requirements required to apply is that you complete certain courses that will help you be prepared once you get in. These classes include Anatomy, physiology, mathematics, chemistry, +/- organic chem, basic biology, microbiology, english. Depending on specific program, these requirements may vary. Most programs also require that you have experience in the medical field. Some programs except volunteer experiences, some don't. The application process is through a centralized website where you would submit all of your recommendation letters information on all of your courses and transcripts, personal statement and your experiences. I believe that the programs look at your GPA, personal statement, reccomendation letters and experience in order to consider you as a candidate for interviews. So it does depend on a lot of different factors. Is it competitive? Most definitely. But because of all these requirements, if you lack in one area you may be able to make it up in others. Most program offer about 60ish seats per class. In those selected, there were probably about 4 times that (for my school anyway) and maybe even tripple the amount of interviewees who applied. Some of my coworkers reapplied for many years and they remained persistent until they got in. Just keep at it, work hard toward it if it's what you want, nevermind everyone else. If you are passionate about the profession, you will get there!