December - February
Phase 1: The Foundation
Start to make list of PA schools to apply to (figure out what matters to you - location, clinicals, GPA, pre-reqs, etc)
Get organized: resume, experiences, patient care experience
Brainstorm personal statement ideas and start rough draft
Take GRE/CASPER/etc all tests needed to apply
February - April
Phase 2: The Preparation
Ask for letters of recommendation from faculty, PAs, MDs, etc
Finalize personal statement
Start to fill out experiences in CASPA format
Finalize schools you are applying to and decide plan of action for application submission timeline
April - May
Phase 3: The Implementation
Create CASPA account
Start to fill in all application items
Submit transcripts via CASPA
Work on supplementals from each program you apply to
June - July
The Waiting Period
Continue to submit applications
Fingers crossed for interview invites!
July - End of Cycle
Phase 4: The Interview
Interview interview interview
Update schools you have not heard from yet on your updated volunteering, hours, grades, etc.
Phase 5: The Acceptance, woohoo!
Accept the invite to the program
Submit deposit $$