CASPA General Tips

It’s CASPA opening day! It’s exciting, it’s nerve-wracking and I was in your shoes just 3 short years ago. With PA school being so competitive now, and expensive to apply, I wanted to share some wisdom to help you get in the first time!

▪️Several programs are on a rolling admission basis. Although applications might not be due until later in the fall or winter, get them in quickly! I had mine in by mid- June and I’d recommend getting it in no later than July for your best chances. 

▪️Only apply to schools where you have their minimum requirements hours and GPA, and have taken all the classes they require for admission. Schools don’t overlook these things and will shuffle your application out before even looking at it if you don’t meet their requirements. Don’t waste your money on applications to schools you won’t get into!

▪️Start entering in your personal information whenever you have time, it’s a lengthy process.

▪️Be careful about who you choose to write your letters of recommendation. Make sure these people know you well and can say specific (good) things about you so you stand out. Also make sure they have time to do a thorough letter that will help you get into school. 

▪️Make sure you show WHY you want to be a PA in your personal statement. We all want to help people and are interested in the human body. You can mention that, but that can’t be your main reason. Describe a life-changing event, even if it was just a little lightbulb, that led you to where you are today. 

▪️Be realistic about where you might get in. If you think you application is just average, apply to more than just your reach schools. Every school truly looks for something different in applicants, so don’t put all your eggs into one basket (school)!

Take a deep breath and do your best! You are good enough and you’ll find the program that’s best for you! As always let me know if you have any questions or I can help you in any way. Wishing you the best of luck!

✤Courtney