Getting accepted to physician assistant programs is becoming more competitive as the demand for this cadre of professionals is increasing in an evolving healthcare system. When evaluating applicants, physician assistant program admissions committees look for several factors. First, and foremost, they want to know if you have the necessary science foundation and possess the ability to handle the rigorous academic coursework in PA school. To evaluate academic aptitude, schools use the GPA and in some cases, the GRE score.

But a strong GPA and good GRE scores are not enough; physician assistant program admissions committees also want to assess an applicant’s interest and commitment to the physician assistant profession. Specifically, they want to know why you have chosen the PA profession over nursing or medicine. This is why clinical experience, especially experience working with a PA, is an important part of a successful application. Whether paid or volunteer, seek clinical experiences where you can spend time observing or assisting PAs or other clinicians directly and gaining insight into patient care. Take advantage of opportunities to interact directly with patients in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Focus specifically on primary care and seek experiences where you can work with the underserved. PA schools are more impressed by an individual who has worked in primary care with low-income patients than one who has worked in an upscale specialty clinic that serves an affluent patient population. You can further strengthen your application by taking part in community service and assuming leadership roles in organizations on or off campus. Do not become involved in too many activities at a superficial level. Instead, select a few valuable experiences and immerse yourself in these experiences.