Red Flags in a PA Application (and How to Avoid Them)
With CASPA open, our admissions team (A-team) here at DPAP review a large number of applications each day. While each applicant is unique, we still come across a couple of common mistakes and patterns that could negatively impact an application.
With that in mind, we thought it’d be nice to have the A-team share a few of those common red flags, along with some tips and a bit of advice that can help strengthen your applications in the long run.
It’s in the little things: Pay attention to details
One of the most common issues we see is not paying close enough attention to the details of your application. We can always tell when an applicant has not taken time to read through requirements. It is vital to make sure that you read carefully so you understand exactly what the program is looking for.
Our website can be a very reliable resource for viewing the most up to date information as requirements can change each cycle. Sometimes, we come across applications that have been completed with outdated information. So, checking our website regularly can help to avoid these types of mistakes.
While you are on the admissions website, take time to look through each section, including our Prerequisites section. For the Duke PA Program, we have a grade requirement of a B- or higher to be counted towards your prerequisites. All of the information you upload on CASPA should match these requirements. Taking time to look at your scores and compare them to accepted applicant stats also helps to fill in some blanks before applying.
Knowing what counts as patient care experience
Understanding what counts as patient care experience (PCE) is essential in the application process. As this is also another common area where we spot issues, we’ve provided guidance on our website outlining different roles that we accept toward your PCE.
Remember, if you ever have any questions, it’s okay to reach out and ask the A-team! There are always new roles that pop up that still line up with our direct, “hands-on” patient care requirements.
Keep your feet wet…Stay involved!
We want to see that you are actively engaged and volunteering in your community can be a great way to show that! It can be as easy as finding something that you’re passionate about and committing to it once a week. This could look like helping out at a shelter, working with animals, or tutoring. It doesn’t have to be in the medical field.
Even something like weekend shifts at the hospital can show your commitment and consistency. The main takeaway here is that adequate volunteer hours and PCE show us your readiness for PA school.
Take a realistic look and give yourself more time if needed
If you feel like your application isn’t quite there yet, it is totally okay to take a step back, strengthen those areas, and apply once you feel more prepared. Trust me, we encourage you to do this as it will help you become a more competitive applicant. Know our mission, and see where/ if you fit in. Take your time with this application.
As author Akiroq Brost says, “Don’t rush the process, good things take time.”
No application is perfect, but we want to bring these red flags to your attention to help you present yourself as a stronger applicant. Your attention to detail, PCE, volunteer hours, and GRE scores all make a huge difference.
So take your time and be intentional!
The Duke Physician Assistant Program Admissions Blog presents information based on the experiences of Duke PA Program staff and faculty. While the information provided is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication, requirements can change. Please visit the Duke PA Program website for the most up-to-date information.