Where and how many programs should I apply to?

[GujjuPA]

Hello, I am just about done with my CASPA application and am now trying to narrow down on the programs I may have the best chance at.

 

I live in CT, I have not taken the GREs, I have a MS in Biomedical science (GPA not the highest...around 3.1ish grad and 3.0ish from undergrad), I have lots of health care expereince. I work in mental health counseling and also in Intra-operative neuro monitioring in the OR. I have a gotten three LORs, one from a surgical PA, one from a nursing supervisor who is my boss, and one from a grad school professor. I am very much concerned about my GPA and am hoping to apply to schools that will focus more on an applicant as a whole.

 

I'd love to stay in the Northeast but am willing to relocate to any other state if I get in. Kindly reply if you know of programs that I may have some sort of a shot at.

 

Thank you and I wish you all the very best in this application process.

[IdahoPA]

This is the kind of research that YOU are going to have to do. Start by getting a list of all the schools in the area you want to live. Then, visit their program websites to see their requirements. Do you meet those requirements? Fantastic, apply!

 

Good luck!

[winterallsummer]

10 schools. Look around at schools that have lower GPA requirements. Off the top of my head are Western U and the San Antonio program. Maybe Salus.

[mainiac]

Check out:

 

http://www.paeaonline.org/index.php?ht=d/sp/i/25515/pid/25515

 

PAEA website

 

this link has a subscription fee $35! But the advantage (I used it when I was deciding on who/where to apply)

It will give u all the different schools, web sites, pre req's, dead lines, etc!

 

Best of LUck

[mainiac]

Welcome to the Online PA Programs Directory. This directory lists contact information, admissions deadlines, entrance requirements, credentials awarded, tuition fees, financial aid, clinical affiliations, and other information for each of the nearly 160 accredited PA programs across the country, the member programs of the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA). Links to each program's website are included. The directory also contains an online search feature that allows users to locate unique aspects of the programs. Sign up for immediate access to a one-year subscription for $35 by clicking below on “Subscription Registration.”

[mainiac]

Some people I know applied to numerous schools!

It can become expensive! $$$$

But I think that they felt that for sure they'd get into a school;

or if they didn't get into their "school of choice" they'd have a back up.

 

I only applied to 4 schools.

I got 3 interviews.

 

1st Interview:

Flew out of state(unable to drive) flight + hotel + rental car = $$$. Offered spot. Accepted & Paid $$$ (non-refundable)

2nd Interview:

Drove--in state. Offered spot. Accepted & Paid $$$. Gave back 1st Interview spot (for someone else to have) & declined 3rd interview.

3rd Interview:

Declined interview. (out of state)

 

Also if you get an interview you have to get there: drive or fly = $$$; hotel room, rental car, etc.

Also if you go to an interview & then ur offered a spot. You will have to pay $$$(~500.)

U'll have 2 decide to accept, pay $$$ or decline spot.

It's hard to say if u will get another interview or if you do will u b offered a spot?!

It's kinda scary, for me the worst thing would have been to decline 1st spot & not get offered another spot & have to wait another year!.

 

My .02 & ideas 2 consider....

Best of Luck