Applying to PA programs is exciting, but can also feel daunting, especially if there are certain aspects of your academic or personal history that you’re nervous about addressing. The good news is that your application is a story, and like any good story, there are bound to be ups and downs. But as the saying goes, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

If you’re a pre-PA student, you may be worried about how to explain things like a low GPA, poor test scores, or a personal setback in your application. However, the key is to frame these challenges in a way that highlights your resilience, growth, and determination. Everyone’s journey to PA school is unique, and many (if not most) successful applicants have faced similar struggles and overcome them.

We get asked about this topic all the time, so let’s dive into some common hurdles applicants face and how to handle them with confidence:

1. Low GPA-

You’ve worked hard to get into PA school, but maybe a few grades didn’t reflect your best effort or a class didn’t go as well as you had hoped. Many applicants struggle with grades at some point in their academic careers, and admissions committees understand this.

With that being said, it’s important to remember that all PA schools have specific GPA requirements, including minimums for both overall GPA and science GPA, which you must meet to be considered for admission. If you have faced challenges specifically in your science courses, consider retaking those classes to strengthen your academic foundation. This proactive step not only improves your GPA but also demonstrates your dedication to preparing for PA school.

What to Say (if you do meet the minimum qualifications):

• Be honest and take responsibility for your performance. Avoid making excuses, but if there were extenuating circumstances (such as health issues, personal challenges, or family difficulties), briefly mention them.
• Show that you’ve grown from the experience. Did you take steps to improve, like seeking academic support, tutoring, or learn some time management skills? Did your grades improve as a result? Be sure to highlight this.
• Emphasize what you learned. Acknowledge how the experience taught you valuable lessons in resilience, discipline, or problem-solving that will make you a stronger PA student.

Example: “In my first year of college, I faced personal challenges that impacted my academic performance, resulting in a lower GPA. Since then, I’ve taken proactive steps to address my study habits, seeking tutoring and focusing on time management. As a result, my grades have improved significantly, and I’m confident that my stronger academic foundation will allow me to excel in PA school.”

2. Low GRE or PA-CAT Scores-

Test scores are often a big part of the application process (depending on the PA programs you select), but if yours didn’t reflect your potential, it’s important to address this thoughtfully. Don’t let a lower test score define you or your abilities.

Also, remember that there are plenty of PA schools that do not require standardized testing to gain admission.

What to Say:

• Focus on your overall qualifications. A test score is just ONE part of the puzzle, and your GPA, patient care hours, and personal experiences can shine just as brightly.

Example: “While my test scores were not as high as I had hoped, I’ve used this as an opportunity to reflect on my test-taking strategies and to improve my study skills, overall. In addition, I have gained valuable hands-on experience working as a medical assistant, which has given me a deeper understanding of the PA role.”

3. Setbacks (such as an illness or hardship)-

Life happens, and sometimes events like a personal or family illness, death, or a significant hardship can cause a setback in your application. It’s important to be open about this, as it demonstrates your humanity and resilience.

What to Say:

• Acknowledge the challenge you faced, but be sure to keep it concise and focused on how you managed or overcame it. Do not speak negatively about it or try to elicit sympathy from the admission committee.
• Show that you’ve learned from the experience and how it has shaped your perspective or solidified your desire to become a PA.
• Make it clear that you’re capable, ready and fully committed to the journey ahead, despite the setbacks you’ve faced.

Example: “Last year, I lost a close family member to a sudden illness, which deeply impacted my ability to focus on my studies and clinical responsibilities. While this was an incredibly difficult time, it reinforced my passion for healthcare and the importance of providing compassionate care. I took the time to grieve and heal, but I also used this experience to strengthen my resolve to pursue a career where I can make a difference in people’s lives, just as healthcare providers did for my family.”

4. Lack of Direction or Gaps in Time-

Maybe you had some time in your life where things didn’t go according to plan, or you didn’t have a clear direction. It’s okay. Many applicants have taken gap years and unconventional paths to PA school. What matters is what you’ve learned valuable lessons during those years and have refocused on your goals.

What to Say:

• Acknowledge that time, but focus on the positive outcomes. Did you gain life experience? Did you explore interests that ultimately led you back to healthcare?
• Show that you’ve now found your “true calling” and are ready to take on the rigorous journey of PA school.
• Highlight any skills, personal growth, or work experience you gained during this period that now contributes to your qualifications as a PA student.

Example: “After completing my undergraduate degree, I spent several years exploring different career paths and figuring out what truly resonated with me. During this time, I realized my passion for healthcare and began working as a CNA. While it wasn’t the direct path I originally envisioned, it gave me invaluable experience and reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career as a PA. Now, I am focused and driven, and ready to dedicate myself fully to the demands of PA school.”

Remember, Your Story Matters

When addressing any setback in your PA school application, it’s important to demonstrate how your experiences have helped you grow, build resilience, and strengthen your commitment to the healthcare profession. The key is to focus on the positive aspects of how you handled the situation, what you learned from it, and how it has prepared you for the rigors of PA school.

The PA school application is not about perfection. No one has a straight path, and admissions committees understand this. When filling out your application, remember that it’s your story that matters- your unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs are what make you who you are.

So, be honest and frame your challenges as opportunities for growth. Show the admissions committee that you’ve faced adversity and come out stronger, more prepared, and more committed to your goal of becoming a PA.

Apply Even If Your Application is Not “Perfect”

Also, if you’re considering applying to PA programs but feel like you’re not quite there yet- whether due to a lower GPA, test scores, or other areas that need improvement- just do it (as long as you meet the minimum qualifications). While it’s normal to want everything to be perfect before submitting your application, remember that growth and commitment are key qualities that PA schools look for in applicants.

One of the most powerful things you can do as a pre-PA student is to apply, even if you’re still working on some areas. PA schools want to see that you’re committed to becoming a healthcare provider and that you’re willing to put in the effort to grow, learn, and improve. If you don’t get in this year, that’s okay- use it as an opportunity to build on your strengths and come back next year even better. And who knows? You may get in regardless (it happens!).

Admissions committees recognize resilience, and showing that you’re dedicated to your goal by reapplying after making improvements only makes you a stronger candidate. Maybe you’ve retaken some courses to boost your grades, worked more patient care hours, or developed stronger test-taking skills. When you reapply, you’re not just showcasing better scores or grades, but also your determination and growth.

Even if your first application isn’t successful, it shows the PA program that you’re serious about your future. After all, pursuing a career as a PA is about more than just checking boxes; it’s about demonstrating your long-term commitment to making a difference in patients’ lives. A reapplication with improved qualifications not only proves that you’re ready for the challenge, but it also shows that you won’t give up on your dream.

Good luck with your application journey, and remember- every step, no matter how challenging, is part of the path toward becoming an amazing PA! As always, if you need any help or support, always reach out to us at [email protected].