Application Support for pre-PT students

Submitting a professional school application can be stressful, but the PMHSC advisors are here to help! Advisors can help students prepare written materials before the application opens, discuss exam and application timing, and offer suggestions about letters of recommendation.  

Important Dates 

Most PT programs use a centralized application called the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service. This is more commonly known as PTCAS. The application operates in a yearly cycle and many PT programs have multiple deadlines (such as preferred, priority, or early decision). Several PT programs also operate on a rolling admissions basis so it’s important to apply early despite the deadline.  

The American Physical Therapy Association keeps an up to date list of PT programs by deadlines on its website.  

PTCAS Application Information 

The PTCAS application collects general information from all applicants that it shares with any program an applicant applies to. The information is divided into four different areas on the application: 

1. Personal Information – This section is used to gather an applicant’s biographic and contact information, as well as citizenship, race/ethnicity, and other information. 

2. Academic History – This section is where an applicant records the colleges they have attended, the courses and grades earned at each college, and information about tests taken or planned to take.  

3. Supporting Information – This section is used to collect information such as observation hours, achievements, experiences, licenses and certificates, and the application essay. 

4. Program Materials – Specific programs may have additional application requirements. This section allows an applicant to supply those additional documents or answer additional questions. 

Graduate Record Exam 

The GRE is a standardized exam similar to the SAT or ACT that is administered in high school. It has three sections that assess verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and writing ability. The test can be taken at home or at a testing center. Scores are available 10-15 days after the exam date. Each program may set a deadline that the test needs to be taken by. Applicants should check individual PT program websites to ensure their plans align with program deadlines. More information about the GRE can be found on the ETS website.  

Application Support Resources 

The pre-PT advisors are available to assist students through the application process. Students may choose to work with the WRT Zone for assistance in the writing process. The PMHSC also maintains a YouTube channel with helpful videos about topics such as writing the application essay (often called the personal statement). Lastly, the PTCAS Applicant Help Center is full of information that many applicants find useful when entering the application process.