When to start applying for jobs?

[MisterBen]

I'm currently a 2nd year PA student and I'll graduate May 2018. i hear some of my classmates talking about applying for jobs already, but it seems too early. I've done some background research on different areas, openings, that kind of thing, but it seems early to actually apply for jobs. When should I start applying for jobs? Any advice is appreciated.

[south]

Hit it in January.  That way, in the "sweet spot" about 2 months before graduation, you'll either have something lined up or have a few interviews under your belt when the right job comes along. 

[MT2PA]

Remember that healthcare can have huge lag time between when you apply, when you hear something, when you interview, and when you finally have a decision.

Start now (or after the holidays) and you still might not have something lined up by graduation.  I know some students intentionally waited until after graduation because A: they didn't know what field they wanted to be in and B: it maximized their time off but I would say the majority of us would prefer to have a job lined up before we graduate.

Starting now will make it (hopefully) a less stressful process.  The worst that happens is they say no or we need someone now.  There's not much downside here.

[Guest HanSolo]

Remember, licensing usually takes weeks to months depending on your state. I would try to have a job lined up by graduation and then have a “forced licensing vacation.” I’d probably start looking in January. Hiring processes stall over the holidays, anyway. 

[BirdDogPA]

I don't think you really can start too soon. Just remember it's a long process taking PANCE, Licensure, job interviews, all the paper work that goes along with credentialing etc.     Main thing is don't get discouraged!

[rev ronin]

I think six months prior to graduation is the earliest I'd start looking.  Three months prior to graduation is the LATEST I would start looking.