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Physical Therapy Graduate Programs

Edgar Said:

How competitive are graduate Physical Therapy programs?

We Answered:

Most programs are competitive entry, meaning that there are a set of predetermined prerequisite courses and grades (usually minimum of 3.0). However, just because one meets these minimum requirements does not mean that they are gauranteed admission. Historically, grades are the primary focus. For instance, where I went to school, minimum GPA required was 3.0, but realistically, average GPA of those admitted was over 3.6. Many schools are now allowing all students who meet the minimum requirements to come for an interview and possible writing sample. Sometimes, grades are leveled at this point...this gives people with a "slightly lower" GPA a chance for admission.

How many students are accepted varies between schools. In many schools, 30-40 is the maximum where some larger schools may accept 90 students. The percentage of those admitted varies on application rates. Historically, many schools only accept 10-20% of qualified applicants. For instance, I went to a school where there were 350 applicants, but only 36 slots available. Yet, at this same school, there were only 48 applicants two years ago...theoretically making it "easier" to get in. Enrollments dropped for several years in the early 00s, but is steadily rising again.

Finally, there are a few programs that have a "direct admit program." This means that students are accepted as a freshman are are elligible to stay in the professional phase of the program as long as they maintain a certain GPA as an undergraduate. One example is Marquette.

I suggest going to the APTA website at: http://www.apta.org to the education section to learn more.

Good luck.

Elizabeth Said:

What do I need to get on my GRE to get into a Physical Therapy graduate program?

We Answered:

Your GRE score will not help your chances if your GPA does not meet the minimum standard. These are very stringent regulations...if you do not meet the minimum, do not both to apply. I would suggest you retake some courses to increase your GPA. This is especially considering that while minimum GPA is 3.0 (usually), realistically, the average GPA of those accepted to the program is around 3.6.

BTW, Northwestern will accept students with a 2.5...but this is already a highly competitive school...but I think it's worth a shot.

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