PTCAS application season will be here here before you know it! So, we have compiled a list of everything you need to apply to Physical Therapy School with approximate dates and timeline you should expect. The earlier you can start preparing your application, the better.
Application Timeline
NOW
First, start researching schools, requirements, ensure you have taken all required prerequisites for those schools.
Also consider if they require the GRE/TOEFL!
Check out this Link to view all schools under PTCAS, their requirements, and their deadlines.
Continue to accumulate observation hours in a variety of settings! Schools want to see that you have a diverse experience with PT!
Check out our post about how to accumulate and document PT observation hours HERE!
February – August
Begin studying and preparing for the GRE if your schools! For several schools, they recommended that you take the GRE/TOEFL no later than August 1st!
- Schedule your test
- Prepare study materials
Want our list of how to crush the GRE? Check out our blog post: How to Score Amazingly on the GRE
March
Consider who you may want to write you a letter of recommendation! Not sure where to start?
Check out our blog post: Everything You Need to Know About PTCAS Reference Letters
Continue to study for the GRE/TOEFL test
Continue to accumulate observation hours in a variety of settings! Schools want to see that you have a diverse experience with PT!
April
Start reaching out to your potential recommenders! This gives them plenty of time to draft a recommendation for you and gives you plenty of time to find new ones if they say they cant.
Need a sample for how to ask your recommenders? Check out our blog post: How You Can Effectively Ask For An Amazing PTCAS Letter
Next, Consider taking the GRE/TOEFL! This gives you plenty of time to retake the test if you need!
Continue to accumulate observation hours in a variety of settings! Schools want to see that you have a diverse experience with PT!
May
If you have not taken the GRE/TOEFL, then really consider taking it now so you have plenty of time to retake the test to improve your score if needed!
If you’re still in school, then really focus on finishing strong!
June
APPLICATION WILL OPEN ON JUNE 15TH!
Although you wont be able to officially submit until July, this is when the essay prompt for the year will be released!
Start drafting your essay! Really hone in on why you want to go to PT school. Tell your story and let your why SHINE!
Need help figuring out how to start your essay? Schedule a zoom session with us! We will walk through with you exactly what PT schools are looking for and help you tell your story!
Add the schools you want to apply to to your profile! Check if they have any supplemental applications or essays!
Send recommendation link to your recommenders to fill out! They can copy and paste anything they have written for you straight into the recommendation link.
July
Enter your transcripts into PTCAS! (Listen, you do you, but paying someone to enter your grades and transcripts into PTCAS is dumb. Do it yourself if you can)
Enter your Observation Experiences! This can be edited after you submit your application.
Enter all your extracurriculars, work experience, etc.
Retake GRE/TOEFL if necessary!
August and On!
Keep track of all your schools due dates! Fill out their supplemental applications, and submit you application! Generally from here, its a waiting game.
Some schools may have an interview process in addition to the application process! Check out our Interview Template for common questions asked in interviews as well as a free downloadable template!
If you want practice with your PT school interview, consider scheduling a Mock Interview with out team! There is feedback at the end of the call as well!
You Got This!
Check out our blog post: How to Score Amazingly on the GRE to get more information on how Haley and I scored highly on our GREs and the resources we used for studying! This does include affiliate links to these resources and helps us earn commission on your purchase as well!
It’s a win-win!
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