Earn a bachelor’s degree (or complete prerequisites) from an accredited institution
Complete required prerequisite coursework (commonly biology, chemistry, anatomy/physiology, microbiology, statistics, psychology/sociology)
Meet admissions requirements for PA programs (varies by school)
Complete required patient-care experience (common examples: EMT, CNA, MA, paramedic, rehab aide, scribe, military medical roles)
Meet GPA and competitive score requirements (varies by program)
Take the GRE or PA-CAT if required by the program
Apply through CASPA (Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants)
Submit transcripts, test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, and CASPA application materials
Attend interviews with PA program selection committees
Choose an accredited PA program (ARC-PA accredited)
Complete the Master’s-level PA program (typically about 2–3 years)
Complete didactic coursework (medical sciences, pharmacology, clinical medicine)
Complete clinical rotations (commonly family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, emergency medicine, women’s health/obstetrics, psychiatry, electives)
Graduate from the accredited PA program
Pass the national certification exam: PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)
Obtain state licensure to practice as a PA (requirements vary by state)
Maintain certification through NCCPA (including required continuing medical education and periodic re-certification)
Keep licensure active with state-required renewals and continuing education
Consider specialty training via residency/fellowship or additional clinical experience (optional)