茄子视频

How to Apply

You can apply online for free using the University application. On the application, in the section for major of interest, please indicate the Physician Assistant Program as the major. (Note: You cannot transfer into the combined B.S./M.S. in Physician Assistant Program from another college or university; you must enter as a first-time college freshman. 茄子视频 also offers an M.S. in Physician Assistant.)

B.S./M.S. in Physician Assistant Application Checklist:

  • A 茄子视频 University undergraduate application.
  • Official high school transcripts.
  • Three letters of recommendation (one from a science teacher).
  • An essay on why you want to become a physician assistant.
  • SAT and/or ACT scores.
  • (PDF) not required, but highly recommended

To be considered for the program, high school students must:

  • Have one of the following:
    • A minimum new SAT score of 1160 (evidence-based reading and writing and math) OR
    • A minimum ACT score of 24.
  • Have a minimum overall GPA of 3.2.
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.2 for all science courses.
  • Participate in an interview with representatives from 茄子视频 and the Physician Assistant Program.
  • Demonstrate strong oral and written language skills, evidence of ability to complete this intensive program of study and clinical training, personal maturity and a professional attitude.
  • High school student applicants are also encouraged to provide evidence of health care/patient contact and physician assistant shadowing experience.

For further admissions information, view our .

We utilize a comprehensive Rubric to evaluate the evidence presented by applicants for our intensive program. This Rubric encompasses various criteria, with extracurricular activities being just one component. It serves as a means to assess a student's ability to manage the minimum GPA requirement while actively participating in diverse settings beyond the traditional classroom environment. Each criterion is carefully evaluated, and applicants are assigned scores accordingly, which are then utilized to rank candidates for potential interview dates.

Furthermore, we are committed to transparency in our admissions process. To clearly outline the necessary skills and competencies expected from our students, we publish a set of Technical Standards. These standards go beyond academic requirements and encompass the physical, cognitive, and behavioral abilities essential for successful completion of all aspects of our curriculum. They also encompass the development of professional attributes that are highly valued by our faculty and expected of all students upon graduation. By delineating these Technical Standards, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the expectations and commitments associated with our program. 

Extracurricular activities, in the context of a college application, refer to any activities or pursuits that students engage in outside of their regular academic coursework. These activities are typically voluntary and provide opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop skills, and contribute to their personal and social growth. Extracurricular activities are an important component of a college application as they demonstrate a student's involvement, leadership potential, passion, and commitment beyond the classroom.

Examples of extracurricular activities can include:

  • Sports: Participation in varsity or club sports teams, individual sports, or recreational sports activities.
  • Clubs and organizations: Membership in student clubs, academic or subject-specific organizations, cultural or diversity clubs, community service groups, or leadership organizations like student government.
  • Performing arts: Involvement in theater productions, choir, orchestra, band, dance groups, or other performing arts initiatives.
  • Volunteer work: Engaging in community service or volunteer work with organizations or initiatives that address social issues or support a cause.
  • Academic competitions: Participation in science fairs, math competitions, debate teams, or other intellectual pursuits outside of regular coursework.
  • Student publications: Involvement in school newspapers, literary magazines, or online blogs.
  • Internships or work experience: Gaining practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in professional settings related to a student's interests or career goals.
  • Research projects: Conducting independent research or participating in research programs in collaboration with professors or institutions.
  • Arts and crafts: Pursuing hobbies or talents in areas such as painting, photography, sculpture, or other artistic endeavors.
  • Special interest activities: Engaging in activities related to specific interests like coding clubs, robotics teams, environmental clubs, or entrepreneurship initiatives.

When including extracurricular activities in a college application, it is important to highlight the duration and level of involvement, any leadership roles or responsibilities held, and any notable achievements or impact made through these activities. Colleges value students who demonstrate a well-rounded profile and the ability to manage their time effectively by balancing academics with extracurricular commitments.

Deadlines 

To be considered for admission, we highly encourage you to apply by October 30. Interviews for the program are typically held from September through February. The earlier you turn in a complete application, the greater the opportunity for being selected for an interview. Students typically receive admissions decisions within a month of their interview.

Becoming Eligible to Interview

After qualification, applicants become “eligible to interview.” At this stage in the admission process candidates are ranked by assigning points to application requirements, as shown below. The Physician Assistant faculty will interview approximately 80 of the highest-scoring applicants. Applicants can receive a maximum of 21 points.

Requirements 1 Point 2 Points 3 Points 4 Points
GPA 3.20-3.60 3.61-3.75 3.76-3.90 3.91-4.0
SAT 1160-1220 1230-1250 1260-1290 >1290
ACT 24-25 26 27 28 or >
Extracurricular Activities 1 2 3 or more N/A
Recommendation Letters 1 positive letter submitted 2 positive letters submitted 3 positive letters submitted N/A
PA Shadow Experiences 1 2 3 or more N/A
Health Care Hours 1-25 26-50 51-75 >75

Scoring Example:

Alivia Smith has earned a high school GPA of 3.87, scored 1280 on the SAT, and has been involved in two activities. She submitted three positive recommendation letters and has shadowed 1 PA and 1 nurse. She volunteered at her local nursing home for 28 hours. She will score as follows:

GPA: 3.91 = 4 points
SAT/ACT: 1280 = 3 points
Extracurricular Activities: 2 = 2 points
Recommendation Letters: 3 positive = 3 points
PA Shadow Experience: 1 PA Shadow = 1 point (Other healthcare providers do not count.)
Health Care Hours: 28 hours = 2 points
Total Points: 15 

The Interview

The admissions committee selects approximately 80 students to interview. The interview activities are designed to give applicants an in-depth look at our program. Applicants will have multiple opportunities to demonstrate their strengths and suitability for the program and the PA profession.

This interview will include:

  • Program overview and a chance to meet some of the program faculty.
  • A review of the Physician Assistant Program curriculum.
  • An individual interview with a faculty member or alumni.
  • A group activity to observe your ability to work as a group member.
  • A review of technical standards.
  • Assessment of writing skills.

Tips for preparing for the interview:

  • Research 茄子视频 University and our Physician Assistant Program.
  • Attend a 茄子视频 University Physician Assistant Program Information Session.
  • Research the profession. (Some websites that will help: American Academy of Physician Assistants, Pennsylvania Society of Physician Assistants, National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, and Physician Assistant Education Association.)
  • Research possible interview questions and think about your responses.
  • Talk with physician assistants.
  • Think about why you want to be a physician assistant.
  • Get adequate sleep the night before your scheduled interview.
  • Arrive early for the interview.

Technical Standards

The 茄子视频 University Physician Assistant Program accepts applicants who we believe have the ability to become highly competent physician assistants. Admission and retention decisions are based not only on prior satisfactory academic achievement but also on non-academic factors outlined in our Technical Standards.

To contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, fill out our online Request for Information form. You may also call us any time at (724) 838-4281 or (800) 826-6234, or send an email to admit@setonhill.edu.