How to Get Into PA School (And What It’s Really Like)

By Shane Grayson, Certified Physician Assistant & Founder of Cardiac Coffee Co.

So you’re thinking about becoming a physician assistant? Welcome to the club. It's a challenging but incredibly rewarding path — and I say that as someone who lived it. I'm Shane Grayson, a certified PA working in primary care and the founder of Cardiac Coffee Co., and I graduated from the PA program at Mercyhurst University in 2023. Let me give you the real scoop on what it's like to get into PA school — and what to expect once you're in it.

PA School: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure

Not all PA schools are built the same. Some programs are 24 months (like mine), others stretch to 28 months or even 3 years, and then there are direct-entry programs that combine undergrad and grad school into a 5-year track.

So the first thing you need to ask yourself is: What kind of PA program fits my timeline, goals, and lifestyle?

The Academic Prerequisites (a.k.a. The Science Gauntlet)

Most PA schools want you to come prepared with:

  • Biochemistry

  • Microbiology

  • Organic Chemistry

  • General Chemistry

  • Biology

  • Literature or English

  • Medical Terminology

  • (Sometimes) Physics I

Majors like biology, exercise science, health sciences, or pre-med usually align well with PA school prerequisites — but always check with each program you're applying to. One size does not fit all.

The Tests: GRE vs. PA-CAT

Some schools require the GRE — a general test covering math, verbal reasoning, and writing. Others may ask for the PA-CAT, a newer, more specialized test designed to evaluate how well you understand key health science concepts.

Spoiler alert: Neither test is fun. But they’re both doable with some solid prep time and planning.

GPA Matters — But Science GPA Matters More

You’ll need to have a competitive GPA and a strong science GPA. Most programs weigh your performance in science-heavy courses more heavily than your overall GPA. So if you crushed physiology but tanked Intro to Ceramics, you’re probably still okay.

Experience: The PA School Currency

PA schools want applicants with real-world healthcare experience. And no, shadowing alone won’t cut it.

There are two types of experience schools look for:

  • Healthcare Experience (HCE): Indirect care roles like medical scribe, unit clerk, or athletic trainer.

  • Patient Care Experience (PCE): Direct care roles like EMT, paramedic, nurse, CNA, or phlebotomist.

Some schools want thousands of hours, while others are okay with a few hundred. I had about 500 hours when I applied, and that was enough — but it varies. Quality matters just as much as quantity.

Shadowing Hours: Get 'Em If You Can

Shadowing a practicing PA gives you insight into the role and shows programs you’ve done your homework. Aim for 15–40 hours, more if possible. I had around 15–25, but I applied during COVID when shadowing was tough to come by.

If you don’t know a PA personally, just ask around. Clinics, hospitals, and urgent care centers may let you tag along — especially if you’re respectful, persistent, and professional.

The Application Process (CASPA)

All roads lead to CASPA — the centralized application service for PA schools. It’s a one-stop shop where you’ll upload transcripts, experience hours, personal statement, and more. Pro tip: Get organized before you apply. CASPA charges per school, so don’t waste money on rushed or incomplete apps.

Some schools now require additional assessments like CASPer, a situational judgment test that evaluates your ethics and decision-making. (Fun, I know.)

Your Personal Statement: This Is Your Story

Here’s the truth — your personal statement can make or break your application.

Grades and experience might get you in the door, but your story is what helps you stand out. Don’t just say, “I love medicine” or “The human body is fascinating.” That’s generic. Go deeper. Be real. Be personal.

For me, it all started with a series of knee surgeries from sports injuries. I worked closely with a PA during rehab and built a real connection. That experience lit the fire for me, and I shared that journey in my personal statement. That authenticity resonates with admissions teams.

Whatever your “why” is — tell it clearly, and tell it from the heart.

Final Thoughts: You Can Do This

PA school isn’t easy. It’s competitive, intense, and fast-paced. My 24-month program at Mercyhurst? Absolutely one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. But it shaped me into the provider I am today — someone who now works in primary care, drinks way too much coffee, and started a company to give back to the healthcare world.

So if you’re on this path: Do your research. Put in the work. Own your story. And keep grinding. The world needs more passionate, committed PAs. I hope you become one of them.

Good luck — and don’t forget to reward yourself with a great cup of coffee while you’re at it.

☕️ About the Author

Shane Grayson, PA-C is a certified physician assistant and the founder of Cardiac Coffee Co., a coffee company that supports healthcare organizations with every blend. He’s a graduate of Mercyhurst University’s PA Program and works in primary care. When he’s not seeing patients or roasting beans, he’s helping future PAs get into school — and stay caffeinated.

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