Physical Therapy

Discover the essential steps for a career in physical therapy, including coursework requirements and application guidance for DPT programs.

  1. College of Science & Engineering
  2. Advising Center
  3. Pre-Health Advising
  4. Physical Therapy

Preparing for a career in physical therapy involves careful planning and dedication. This guide will outline the essential steps, from understanding required coursework to navigating the application process for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs.

Students will need to check the& admission requirements for each school to which they plan to apply. The most common prerequisite requirements for admission into the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree are:

  • General Biology
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • General Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Psychology
  • Statistics

Additional requirements may include medical terminology, English composition, math and exercise physiology.

Some programs also require observational hours as part of admission.

GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATION (GRE)

The GRE has six sections:

  • Analytical Reasoning (one section with 2 tasks)
  • Verbal Reasoning (2 sections)
  • Quantitative Reasoning (2 sections)

When should I take the GRE?

Students should take the GRE when they feel ready. Generally, the GRE is taken during your junior year of college. Scores need to be back in time to meet the program deadlines.

Students will need to identify which college and program they wish for the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to send their scores when taking the GRE. Most DPT programs have a specific college code listed on the admissions page.

Create a study plan for the GRE:

Step 1: Gather Information about GRE

Step 2: Take a practice test

Step 3: Gather study materials

Step 4: Make a study calendar

Step 5: Study!

Step 6: Prepare for test day

How many times should I take the GRE?

Ideally, you should take the GRE when you are prepared. Students may decide to re-test to improve their score. Check with the individual program to see how they will consider your scores for admission.

How long are GRE scores valid?

GRE scores are valid for up to five years from your test date. Students should verify with each program if they will need newer scores.

Is the exam expensive?

The GRE exam costs $205.

The Physical Therapist Centralist Application Service (PTCAS) opens July 1 and will close on June 1. Students need to review the PTCAS calendar to ensure they meet PTCAS application deadlines. Each program will also have its own deadline by which materials need to be submitted to PTCAS.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to check the deadline for each school. Most schools offer rolling admission, so it is best to apply early. Students who apply after November may have difficulty gaining admission as seats may be filled.

All PTCAS deadlines expire at 11:59 p.m. ET / 8:59 p.m. PT.

Students who face financial hardship may be eligible to receive a fee wavier to help with the application cost.

  • You can major in anything! Most students choose a biology or chemistry degree because the required science coursework fits well within their degree plan. However, students can major in art, psychology, criminal justice, etc., and still apply to physical therapy school if they meet the admissions requirements.
  • Students should take academically rigorous coursework (independent study, honors, and research opportunities) to demonstrate their ability to be successful in higher-level coursework.

FRESHMAN YEAR

  • Sign up on the pre-health listserv.
  • Ensure you register for the correct science courses (general biology and general chemistry your first year).
  • Join the Pre-Health Club on campus.
  • Focus on your grades and develop good time management and study skills to help you start successfully.
  • Start researching the admissions requirements for medical schools you wish to attend.

SOPHOMORE YEAR

  • Continue to focus on grades.
  • Think about what aspect of healthcare interests you and gain experience through part-time employment, job shadowing, research and/or volunteering. Make the experience meaningful to you, not simply because you think it looks good.
  • Get to know faculty to ask for letters of recommendation when you are ready to apply.
  • Attend admissions fairs, open houses or events at the schools you are interested in to learn about the different programs and become familiar with each school’s admissions process.

JUNIOR YEAR

  • Continue to focus on grades.
  • Make a study plan and begin reviewing for the GRE.
  • Ensure that you have met or are meeting the requirements for admissions to the different programs you are interested in.
  • Register and take the GRE.
  • Create a profile on the PTCAS website and begin work on your application. Take your time on the application so you do not make mistakes and delay your application being accepted.

SENIOR YEAR

  • Continue to focus on grades. 
  • Submit supplemental fees and applications promptly. 
  • Respond to interview requests promptly and professionally.
  • Notify all physical therapy schools of your decisions as early as possible.
  • Email prehealth@seattleu.edu of your final decision.
  • Send thank you cards as a courtesy to everyone who assisted you.
  • Complete the FAFSA for the medical school you plan to attend.

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