Pre-Physician Assistant

PA programs do not require a specific undergraduate major. In fact, the profession as a whole sees more career changers than any other professional medical career. When selecting a major, you should consider a major which you enjoy, where you will perform well and which may serve as a basis for further graduate work or employment should you choose not to apply to or are not admitted to a PA program. Admissions committees expect variety in educational programs, so you should take courses in a wide variety of subject areas, no matter what you decide to declare as a major.

• Biology I and II with labs: BIOL 1081/1081L and 1082/1082L
• General Chemistry I and II with labs: CHEM 1040/1040L and 1041/1041L
• Organic Chemistry I and II with labs: CHEM 2040/2040L and *2041/*2041L
• English: ENGL 1001 and 2089
• Anatomy and Physiology: [BIOL 2001C & 2002C]; or [BOL 3020C(F,S)**, 3021(F)**, & 5193C(S)]
• Medical Terminology: HCMT 1001 or HLSC 2012 or MA 1010 or CLAS 2031
• Microbiology: BIOL 4011/4011L(F) or MEDS 3024C(F)
• Psychology: PSYC 1001
• * Biochemistry: CHEM 3040 or MEDS 3020(F)
• * Physics I with lab: PHYS 1051/1051L or PHYS 2001/2001L
• * Math: MATH 1044 or 1061 and STAT 1034 or 1031 or MEDS 3023C
• * Genetics: BIOL 2083(F,S)
• * Developmental or Abnormal Psychology: PSYC 2040 or 2051

*Only some schools require 

**Only some schools will accept

Many PA programs require the GRE or PA-CAT; however, not all do. Typically, you apply to PA programs before the beginning of your senior year (or a year before you plan to enter), so, if required, you should plan to take the exam by the spring or summer after your junior year.

The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is a standardized test that measures analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning skills. Most of these skills have been acquired over a long period of time and are not related to any specific field of study. We suggest familiarizing yourself with the GRE early on so that you can plan for the test. Understanding the test can positively affect what you learn in class and how you choose to retain that knowledge. Stretch yourself in general education courses at UC and by reading beyond class requirements. The training will serve you well when you take the GRE. The GRE is usually offered five-six days a week and may be taken by appointment at UC Testing Services or Prometric Testing Center. More information regarding the GRE may be found at Educational Testing Services (ETS).  

Some PA schools instead require the Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT), a specialized test that is designed to measure applicant knowledge and application in key prerequisite science subjects typically required for PA school. For more information on which schools require the PA-CAT check the Participating PA Programs.

Most students accepted to a PA program have a GPA of approximately 3.5 or higher. It is particularly important that you perform well in your science courses (biology, chemistry, physics, and math).

Most schools require two letters from science professors that have had you in class and one letter from a non-science professor. Many programs also recommend a letter from a PA or physician.

Nationally: 31% (Inspira Advantage, 2024).

• The cost of education and amounts and types of financial aid vary from school to school.
• Since you will likely incur a substantial debt for your PA program, you are strongly encouraged to investigate costs and aid early and adjust finances during your undergraduate education.
• Most applicants are eligible for federal aid.
• If eligible, apply for FAFSA during January of your application cycle, even if you are still awaiting admission decision.
• There are some financial assistance programs for:
  • US Air Force members
  • US Army members
  • US Navy members

For many students, the most difficult task is to acquire the study skills and self-discipline necessary to attain academic excellence. The success of your transition to college level work depends on ability, preparation, motivation, organization, and how well you learn. It is important that you really learn the material, not just memorize it, as it is crucial to develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The rigorous curriculum of a pre-PA student demands tenacity and stamina and is virtually identical to preparing for medical school.

Admission committees look at the "big picture" as they evaluate applicants. They realize that every student does not hit the ground running when they enter college. Admission committees expect an excellent academic record, but may make some allowances for a problem semester, slow start, or rough spot. If academic problems arise, you must bounce back and perform better than ever to show that the problem was an exception, rather than the rule. Use resources such as professor and T.A. office hours and the Learning Commons.

Having a parallel plan or alternative option to a PA program is highly recommended. That plan could include attending a post-bac or graduate program or pursuing a different kind of healthcare career. ExploreHealthCareers.org is a great resource to finding your alternative career path.