PTCAS CHECKLIST

The PTCAS checklist is intended to assist you in the admissions process, but it is not intended to be a substitution for the full instructions. The PTCAS application is only one step in the PT program admissions process. You must meet all PTCAS and program requirements before your application will be verified and reviewed. You are encouraged to print this Checklist page.

  • Read all PTCAS instructions carefully.
  • Create your new PTCAS application account to obtain your PTCAS ID number.
  • Use the "PTCAS Transcript Request Form" to arrange for ALL of your official transcripts to be received in the PTCAS office by the application deadline!
  • Enter ALL of your U.S. college coursework on the application using personal copies of your transcripts. Do not enter foreign courses.
  • Submit the correct PTCAS fee by the deadline. Payment is required to process your application.
  • Review your application for accuracy. You cannot edit your application once it is e-submitted.
  • Print your completed application for your personal records.
  • Arrange for your fall 2008 transcripts to be sent to PTCAS as soon as they are available. Enter your updated fall coursework on your PTCAS application during the Academic Update.
  • Frequently check your email and login to your application for important messages from PTCAS.


CHECKLIST FOR PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS - Important!

Below are additional admission requirement for many PT programs. Admission policies vary. Review the online PTCAS Directory for program-specific requirements. IF REQUIRED by your designated PT program, you must also…

  • Take the GRE at least 6-weeks before the application deadline date and arrange for ETS to send your official GRE scores directly to your designated PT program(s).
  • Arrange for up to four references to be sent to PTCAS on your behalf. Programs may only consider up to 2-3 references from specific types of evaluators.
  • Arrange for a licensed physical therapist to review your PT observation hours and send the signed PTCAS Observation Hours form directly to your designated PT programs by the deadline.
  • Customize your PTCAS essay to fulfill program-specific requirements.
  • Submit a supplemental application and supplemental fee directly to the PT program by the deadline.
  • Submit foreign transcripts to the appropriate PT program or evaluation agency.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE PTCAS PROCESS

Before you begin the PTCAS application, there are several ways you can prepare for the admissions process.

  • Review the PTCAS instructions
  • Request a personal copy of all of your transcripts so you may properly complete the Coursework section of the PTCAS application.
  • Research the PT programs to determine the ones that may best meet your educational needs.
  • Review the admission requirements for each designated PT program to determine...
    • the prerequisite (pre-PT) courses
    • the minimum requirements for admission (e.g., minimum GPA)
    • the number of hours and type of PT experience required, if any
    • GRE requirements, if any
    • supplemental application and fee requirements, if any
    • the number and type of references required, if any
    • program-specific essay requirements, if any
  • Make arrangements to fulfill any incomplete program requirements
    • (e.g., schedule your GRE test date)
  • If you do not have a reliable email account, create one.
  • Revisit the PTCAS site frequently for updated information.

NON-U.S.

  • If your designated PT program requires a foreign transcript evaluation report, contact the appropriate agency immediately to begin the process. It may take an evaluation agency 4-6 weeks to submit a report to PTCAS.
  • If English is not your primary language, determine if the PT program requires the TOEFL. If yes, schedule to take the test through the Educational Testing Service. Arrange for ETS to send your TOEFL scores directly to code 5312 for the AMERICAN PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION.