GPA's, GRE's, XTRA's, ACCEPTANCES

[claugh13]

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Just wanted to give a final update that I finally know where I will be going! I'm attending St. Augustine in Austin! I'm super excited to start 🙂

Congrats! Are you starting this summer or fall?

 

[GoSparta]

Finally got in!! so happy right now! Long-time lurker and I'm glad I can post my acceptance! This forum has helped provide me with a lot of info and I'm thankful! So happy!

University: San Jose State University
Major: Kinesiology
Overall GPA: 3.45
Pre-Req GPA: Ranges from 3.4-3.6 (No Retakes)
GRE: 158 V 155 Q 4.0 Writing

Extra-Curric: Pre-PT Club, circle K, worked two jobs throughout undergrad, teaching assistant for summer classes

Volunteer: 500+ Outpatient Ortho, 50 Inpatient Burn Unit (Wound Care)

Applied: CSUN, Fresno State, UOP, SMU, Chapman, USC, Western

Acceptances: University of the Pacific

Rejections: WesternU, Samuel Merritt

Interviews: WesternU, Fresno State, UOP

Waitlist: Fresno State (Upper Half), CSUN (low alternate)

Hail Sparta! Just got the call I was accepted yesterday too. Spartan blood runs deep there. Congrats and see you there!

 

[pepprann]

I've been watching this forum for a while, so I figured it's time to finally post my stats. Plus, there hasn't been a whole lot of representation from the Southeast lately.

University: Appalachian State (degree), UNC Charlotte (prereqs as post-bacc)
Major: Psychology Minors: English, Spanish
Overall GPA (PTCAS): 3.96
Pre-Req GPA: 3.98
GRE: 164V, 156Q, 5.0W
Extras: Chancellor's Scholar at ASU, Dept./University Honors, officer in Appalachian Honors Association, Psi Chi, Psych Research Assistant & 3rd author on supervisor's publication, Kinesiology Research Assistant at UNCC, Kung Fu Club, Leadershape attendee, presenter at International Writing Center conference, volunteer with Pancreatic Cancer Action Network of Charlotte, Exercise Physiology TA, various jobs (writing center consultant, peer tutor, farm apprentice, kennel assistant, etc. etc.)

Observation Hours: 16 hrs acute care (hospital critical unit), 85+ hours peds/neuro outpatient (over 2 years w/ same pt), 25 hrs orthopedic outpatient

Applied: Belmont, Duke, Lynchburg, U Puget Sound, Wingate, Winston-Salem State
*attended open houses at Lynchburg, Wingate, and WSSU

Interviews: Belmont (11/21)

Acceptances: Belmont ($2000/yr scholarship--declined), Lynchburg (declined), U Puget Sound (declined), Wingate (declined), WSSU (accepted)
*My acceptance is contingent on getting a B in Physics II this semester.

Waitlisted: none

Rejections: none so far, but application at Duke is still "under consideration," so I will file that under rejected


I know I said no to a couple of great programs, but I had a meltdown in December thinking about all the debt PT school would mean. I chose WSSU because, as an in-state school, they were a 3rd of the cost of the next least expensive school on my list. I really loved Belmont, but $90,000 in loans before living expenses made me sick to my stomach. I also took into account cost of living, class size, community outreach/clinical work/pre-clinical education experiences, collaboration with other health professions, pass rate, etc.

I don't know how many of you have looked into this, but some states offer forgivable loans for service to residents. At the federal level, I guess it is still not happening, but NC is one of those states that offer these loans. If I manage to get approved each year for the loan, it could mean up to $14,000/yr of loans (so potentially debt-free 3 years after PT school if I find a qualified job). As far as I can tell, these programs are pretty flexible in giving you time to find a qualified job, the potential for deferment due to major medical issues or maternity leave, and even the ability to work off the loan if you leave the state and come back while being in good standing as far as making payments goes. This is NC's program if anyone wants an example: http://www.cfnc.org/Gateway?command...te=no&type=13&vocType=-1&vocational=no&id=159

Good luck to everyone still in the application process!

 

[SteamboatBill]

I've been watching this forum for a while, so I figured it's time to finally post my stats. Plus, there hasn't been a whole lot of representation from the Southeast lately.

University: Appalachian State (degree), UNC Charlotte (prereqs as post-bacc)
Major: Psychology Minors: English, Spanish
Overall GPA (PTCAS): 3.96
Pre-Req GPA: 3.98
GRE: 164V, 156Q, 5.0W
Extras: Chancellor's Scholar at ASU, Dept./University Honors, officer in Appalachian Honors Association, Psi Chi, Psych Research Assistant & 3rd author on supervisor's publication, Kinesiology Research Assistant at UNCC, Kung Fu Club, Leadershape attendee, presenter at International Writing Center conference, volunteer with Pancreatic Cancer Action Network of Charlotte, Exercise Physiology TA, various jobs (writing center consultant, peer tutor, farm apprentice, kennel assistant, etc. etc.)

Observation Hours: 16 hrs acute care (hospital critical unit), 85+ hours peds/neuro outpatient (over 2 years w/ same pt), 25 hrs orthopedic outpatient

Applied: Belmont, Duke, Lynchburg, U Puget Sound, Wingate, Winston-Salem State
*attended open houses at Lynchburg, Wingate, and WSSU

Interviews: Belmont (11/21)

Acceptances: Belmont ($2000/yr scholarship--declined), Lynchburg (declined), U Puget Sound (declined), Wingate (declined), WSSU (accepted)
*My acceptance is contingent on getting a B in Physics II this semester.

Waitlisted: none

Rejections: none so far, but application at Duke is still "under consideration," so I will file that under rejected


I know I said no to a couple of great programs, but I had a meltdown in December thinking about all the debt PT school would mean. I chose WSSU because, as an in-state school, they were a 3rd of the cost of the next least expensive school on my list. I really loved Belmont, but $90,000 in loans before living expenses made me sick to my stomach. I also took into account cost of living, class size, community outreach/clinical work/pre-clinical education experiences, collaboration with other health professions, pass rate, etc.

I don't know how many of you have looked into this, but some states offer forgivable loans for service to residents. At the federal level, I guess it is still not happening, but NC is one of those states that offer these loans. If I manage to get approved each year for the loan, it could mean up to $14,000/yr of loans (so potentially debt-free 3 years after PT school if I find a qualified job). As far as I can tell, these programs are pretty flexible in giving you time to find a qualified job, the potential for deferment due to major medical issues or maternity leave, and even the ability to work off the loan if you leave the state and come back while being in good standing as far as making payments goes. This is NC's program if anyone wants an example: http://www.cfnc.org/Gateway?command...te=no&type=13&vocType=-1&vocational=no&id=159

Good luck to everyone still in the application process!

I don't know if it varies for in and out of state residents, but I live in VA and was told I would receive 8.5k a year in forgivable loans if I attend Wingate. Still a very big help either way though.

 

[DesertPT]

I know I said no to a couple of great programs, but I had a meltdown in December thinking about all the debt PT school would mean. I chose WSSU because, as an in-state school, they were a 3rd of the cost of the next least expensive school on my list.

Congrats! You did a great job this application cycle and I think you made the right choice. 👍

 

[pepprann]

I don't know if it varies for in and out of state residents, but I live in VA and was told I would receive 8.5k a year in forgivable loans if I attend Wingate. Still a very big help either way though.

That's great! I didn't realize they would help out of state students as well, but that's still a pretty big dent in the cost.

 

[BillBills]

A special thanks to @markelmarcel for sharing her experiences as a new graduate over the past year. Find out what she has to share about her first year as a DPT on my blog at http://www.creatingapt.com/2015/02/experiences-new-grad-by-dr-kala-markel.html

Do you have any other PTs lined up to talk about their experiences? Your blog post is super helpful and I would love to hear what other PTs say about their first couple years working.

 

[kle0008]

Congrats! Are you starting this summer or fall?

Thanks! I'm starting this summer!

 

[SwampPT]

FINAL UPDATE! IT'S FINALLY OVER!!

University: Arizona State
Major: Biological Sciences
Overall GPA (PTCAS): 3.81
Pre-Req GPA: 3.88 - 3.93 (depending on school)
GRE: 168V, 158Q, 5.0AW
Extras: Volunteering (2 months) then working (2 years) in a cancer lab at a not-for-profit research institute doing molecular/cellular biology (w/ publication). Also, missionary service in the UK, Arizona Board of Regents full-tuition scholarship as well other minor academic awards (small private scholarship, Dean's list, etc).
Observation Hours: 112 (53 outpatient ortho at two different clinics, 25 inpatient neurorehab, 20 hand therapy, 14 inpatient acute care).

Applied: NAU, UNLV, Midwestern Glendale (All mailed 9/23/14); Franklin Pierce AZ (mailed 11/18/14 - doesn't do interviews)

Interviews: Midwestern Glendale (11/21 - notified 9/27); UNLV (1/30 - notified 12/18); NAU (2/27 - notified 1/21).

Acceptances: Midwestern Glendale (12/2) - Declining; UNLV (2/2) 😀 😀 ; Franklin Pierce AZ (2/4) - Declined

Rejections: NAU (3/5) 😵

Can't wait to start PT school at my favorite program! Vegas here I come baby!

I can't even adequately express my gratitude for being able to go to PT school and for all that I've learned by reading this forum. You guys have all been a huge help to me in maintaining my sanity through this ridiculous process. Good luck to everyone during the rest of this cycle! Hoping for the best for everyone. 🙂

Congratulations!!! You're going to be an awesome PT!

 

[arey508]

UPDATE ATTENDING!

University of Delaware '14
Major: Exercise Science
Overall Undergrad GPA: 3.32
Pre-Req GPA: 3.09-3.4 depending on the program
Extra Curricular: Dean's List for 3 semesters, Alpha Phi Omega (service fraternity), Sigma Delta Pi (Hispanic Honor Society), research with the University of Delaware PT department on Total Joint Replacements for ~2 years
Volunteer Hours: 262 outpatient with geriatrics and lymphedema, 12 strictly geriatrics at a nursing home
GRE: V 155, 154 Q, 4.5 W

Applying: Drexel, Temple, Duke, Delaware, Simmons College, Stony Brook, Marymount, Sacred Heart, Nova Southeastern, Dominican College, Chapman

Interviews: Delaware (10/17)

Waitlist: Delaware (02/03)

Accepted: Simmons College, Delaware (03/06)!!!

Rejected: too many to count

Attending: University of Delaware with In-State Scholarship!


I'm a bummed to be withdrawing my acceptance from Simmons, but I couldn't justify going anywhere but Delaware after being offered a $50k in-state scholarhsip! Hopefully if anyone is still looking at Simmons on the waitlist, there is a spot that will be opening up!

 

[karisw]

University: University of Washington Class of 2015
Major: Neurobiology
Minor: Chemistry
Overall undergrad GPA: 3.72
Pre-req GPA: 3.78
Extra-curricular: physiology teaching assistant, English tutor for Japanese international students, Dean's List, church volunteer, Bible study leader
Volunteer Hours: 252 completed in inpatient neuro, outpatient ortho, pediatrics, and geriatric. 600 planned/in progress in outpatient ortho as a PT aid
GRE: 162 V, 161 Q, 4.0 W

Applied: UW, Eastern Wa, UPS, George Fox, Pacific University, Cal St Northridge, Chapman, WesternU of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University
Interviews: Pacific, George Fox, WesternU of Health Sciences, NAU
Accepted: Chapman, WesternU of Health Sciences, Cal St Northridge, NAU, George Fox
Waitlist: Pacific, UW, Eastern Wa, UPS
Rejected: None

Attending: Northern Arizona University Phoenix Campus!!!

Going in to this whole process, I thought for sure that I wanted to stay in the PNW. A Seattleite born and raised, NAU was my last-choice school of the places I applied to, and I never would have thought that it'd end up being my top choice at the end of this process. After visiting the school and having my interview there, I found that everything about NAU just felt right and that it seemed like a good fit for me. I am incredibly excited to attend NAU Phoenix in the fall, and to finally live somewhere with a little sun! My advice to all of you applying next round is to keep your options open and try to look at each school with an open mind- sometimes you never really know what school is best for you until you visit it and see if it is a good match. Best of luck everyone!

 

[ctg93]

Can't thank this forum enough for the helpful information and interesting reads while waiting out this process!!

Elon University '15
Major: Exercise Science
Overall Undergrad GPA: 3.77
Pre-Req GPA: 3.48
Extra Curricular: Elon College Fellow - 2 years of biomechanics based research, Tri Delta: Vice President of Administration & New Member Educator, Phi Beta Kappa, Habitat for Humanity, America Reads Tutor, Biomechanics TA
Volunteer Hours:80 Outpatient 20 Inpatient
GRE: V 157, 147 Q, 4.5 W

Applying: University of Hartford, Northeastern, University of Pittsburgh, George Washington University, University of South Florida, Springfield College, Washington University in St.Louis

Waitlist: UPitt (12/4), USF (1/26), Wash U (12/17)
Accepted: Wash U (2/12), UHart (2/18) & Northeastern (3/5)
Rejected: GW & Springfield

Now time to make the final decision!

 

[ktachiba]

University: University of Washington
Major: Neurobiology
Minor: Chemistry
Overall undergrad GPA: 3.72
Pre-req GPA: 3.78
Extra-curricular: physiology teaching assistant, English tutor for Japanese international students, Dean's List, church volunteer, Bible study leader
Volunteer Hours: 252 completed in inpatient neuro, outpatient ortho, pediatrics, and geriatric. 600 planned/in progress in outpatient ortho
GRE: 162 V, 161 Q, 4.0 W

Applied: UW, Eastern Wa, UPS, George Fox, Pacific, Cal St Northridge, Chapman, WesternU of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University
Interviews: Pacific, George Fox, WesternU of Health Sciences, NAU
Accepted: Chapman, WesternU of Health Sciences, Cal St Northridge, NAU
Waitlist: George Fox, Pacific, UW, Eastern Wa, UPS
Rejected: None

Attending: Northern Arizona University Phoenix Campus!!!

Going in to this whole process, I thought for sure that I wanted to stay in the PNW. A Seattleite born and raised, NAU was my last-choice school of the places I applied to, and I never would have thought that it'd end up being my top choice at the end of this process. After visiting the school and having my interview there, I found that everything about NAU just felt right and that it seemed like a good fit for me. I am incredibly excited to attend NAU Phoenix in the fall, and to finally live somewhere where there's a little sun! My advice to all of you applying next round is to keep your options open and try to look at each school with an open mind- sometimes you never really know what school is best for you until you visit it and see if it is a good match. Best of luck everyone!

I feel the same way bro! I thought I would either stay in Cali or go to the PNW for school, and now I'm attending a school in Maine that I never heard of 6 months ago cuz it felt like the perfect fit to my criteria and lifestyle. Congrats on NAU!

 

[ktachiba]

And also cuz the schools in the PNW are impossible to get into lol

 

[ptlover]

Has anyone heard from the Western U, LLU, or USF wait list? Or know anything? This wait list wait is killer!

 

[somo47]

University: University of Washington Class of 2015
Major: Neurobiology
Minor: Chemistry
Overall undergrad GPA: 3.72
Pre-req GPA: 3.78
Extra-curricular: physiology teaching assistant, English tutor for Japanese international students, Dean's List, church volunteer, Bible study leader
Volunteer Hours: 252 completed in inpatient neuro, outpatient ortho, pediatrics, and geriatric. 600 planned/in progress in outpatient ortho
GRE: 162 V, 161 Q, 4.0 W

Applied: UW, Eastern Wa, UPS, George Fox, Pacific, Cal St Northridge, Chapman, WesternU of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University
Interviews: Pacific, George Fox, WesternU of Health Sciences, NAU
Accepted: Chapman, WesternU of Health Sciences, Cal St Northridge, NAU
Waitlist: George Fox, Pacific, UW, Eastern Wa, UPS
Rejected: None

Attending: Northern Arizona University Phoenix Campus!!!

Going in to this whole process, I thought for sure that I wanted to stay in the PNW. A Seattleite born and raised, NAU was my last-choice school of the places I applied to, and I never would have thought that it'd end up being my top choice at the end of this process. After visiting the school and having my interview there, I found that everything about NAU just felt right and that it seemed like a good fit for me. I am incredibly excited to attend NAU Phoenix in the fall, and to finally live somewhere with a little sun! My advice to all of you applying next round is to keep your options open and try to look at each school with an open mind- sometimes you never really know what school is best for you until you visit it and see if it is a good match. Best of luck everyone!

Congrats on your acceptance! I originally thought I wanted to wait a year and apply somewhere in the PNW to get out of this heat (I'm an AZ native) but after interviewing at NAU I definitely felt the same way! I'll be seeing you there in the fall, I accepted my offer at the Phoenix campus as well. If you have any questions about relocating into Phoenix feel free to message me!

 

[DesertPT]

And also cuz the schools in the PNW are impossible to get into lol

Seriously. Based on what I've read on here I'm convinced they must just fill their classes with some kind of imaginary students...

 

[tweaze]

I feel the same way bro! I thought I would either stay in Cali or go to the PNW for school, and now I'm attending a school in Maine that I never heard of 6 months ago cuz it felt like the perfect fit to my criteria and lifestyle. Congrats on NAU!

Going in to this whole process, I thought for sure that I wanted to stay in the PNW. A Seattleite born and raised, NAU was my last-choice school of the places I applied to, and I never would have thought that it'd end up being my top choice at the end of this process. After visiting the school and having my interview there, I found that everything about NAU just felt right and that it seemed like a good fit for me. I am incredibly excited to attend NAU Phoenix in the fall, and to finally live somewhere with a little sun! My advice to all of you applying next round is to keep your options open and try to look at each school with an open mind- sometimes you never really know what school is best for you until you visit it and see if it is a good match. Best of luck everyone!

I'm right there with you all. I was devastated to be rejected from UW, but when I interviewed at NAU, I realized it had everything I was looking for. Everything works out for a reason - I wouldn't have chosen NAU over UW despite liking NAU better, because UW was convenient and affordable and I'm excited about the new opportunities in AZ for my husband and I.

 

[ptlover]

Just thought I would post here to let future students know of my blog and my story of finally getting in to school! I have posted a few new things such as interview questions, an applying checklist and much more! So proud of everyone who has gotten in this cycle 🙂

dptknow.tumblr.com

 

[CSCS206]

University: *Lake Washington Institute of Technology, **Bastyr University
Major: AAS Fitness Specialist*, BS Exercise Science and Wellness**
Overall GPA: 3.45
Pre-Req GPA: 3.95 (due to re-taking A&P which tainted my 4.0 because of the average)
GRE: 151 V, 152 Q, 4.0 A (first attempt), 150 V, 155 Q, 5.0 A (second attempt)

Extra-Curric:

• Asian Counseling and Referral Service, activities coordinator/group exercise instructor
• Puget Sound Mental Health, "wellness workshop" instructor
• BLD (youth group), youth leader, music ministry, retreat facilitator
• Orthocare Innovations, biomechanics laboratory intern, researcher/investigator
• Biomechanics I, II (course), TA
• Kinesiology (course), guest speaker
• Human Biology (course), tutor
• Bastyr University Mentorship Program, mentor
• Bastyr University Student Council , exercise science representative
• Sports Nutrition Club
• LWIT Annual Health and Wellness Expo, volunteer
• LWIT Fitness Center, intern supervisor
• Benevolent Adult Family Homes, activities coordinator
• 5K Fun Run Fundraiser volunteer
• Local food drive
• Alzheimer's fundraiser

Professional Titles/Memberships:

• Certified Exercise Physiologist/Health Fitness Specialist, American College of Sports Medicine
• Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, National Strength and Conditioning Association
• Certified Personal Trainer, National Council on Strength and Fitness
• Certified Basic Life Support Provider, American Heart Association
• Certified Alliance Member, American College of Sports Medicine
• Student Member, National Strength and Conditioning Association
• Student Member, American Society of Biomechanics
• Student Member, National Health and Exercise Science Association

Volunteer/Observation: total number of hours: 660+
480 hours (3 different outpatient clinics, general ortho), 30 hours (inpatient acute/sub-acute, skilled nursing, geriatrics), 150 (inpatient acute, children's hospital, pediatrics)

Rejections: University of Washington (2013-2014; 2014-2015), Eastern Washington University (2013-2014, 2014-2015), University of Puget Sound (2014-2015)
Interviews: George Fox University (2014-2015)
Waitlisted: University of Puget Sound (2013-2014), George Fox University (2014-2015)
Acceptances: NONE

Any feedback from those who got into UW, EWU, UPS, GFU? This is my second time applying and I pretty much did everything (and more) that was recommended to do in order to strengthen my application.

 

[TheDarkKnight14]

^ I think if you go through the threads, you'll find that those three NW schools (dunno where GFU is) are just pretty competitive and who they take seem to run the gamut. If you really want to get into PT school and start your journey, you may have to consider moving elsewhere. Short of going back in time to get a 4.00 cGPA and studying hard to get 160+ on the GRE, your stats would look pretty dang competitive at other places.

 

[CSCS206]

^ I think if you go through the threads, you'll find that those three NW schools (dunno where GFU is) are just pretty competitive and who they take seem to run the gamut. If you really want to get into PT school and start your journey, you may have to consider moving elsewhere. Short of going back in time to get a 4.00 cGPA and studying hard to get 160+ on the GRE, your stats would look pretty dang competitive at other places.

Yeah I realize I'm cutting myself short by just betting on the schools in my region. It's a tough personal dilemma for me because it's important to me that I stay somewhat in the region. I will expand my options to at least 10 schools next cycle if things don't work out with GFU... I've learned that that's just part of the game. =/

 

[DesertPT]

Any feedback from those who got into UW, EWU, UPS, GFU?

You will have a hard time getting feedback from people who have been accepted to these schools as nobody is ever accepted to these schools. Nobody from the PNW ever has been, and nobody ever will be. People from Arizona get in on rare occasions. Perhaps a few have gotten into George Fox. But that's about it. Washington is pretty much Area 51 for DPT programs. So don't feel bad.

The PNW is a fascinating phenomenon in the pre-PT world. More research is needed to determine the mechanism by which the PT schools there can remain accredited and profitable without ever accepting any students. As of now all we know is that it's possible in the Twilight Zone. Science has yet to crack it.

In all seriousness that seriously sucks that you applied and got rejected two years in a row from all four of those schools. Actually that is just categorically ridiculous. But trust me when I tell you that you are not the only person in that boat. If you are going to re-apply for a third cycle (and major props to you for your perseverance) I highly recommend you start warming up to the idea of giving the PNW schools a big middle finger and looking into other parts of the country to apply to. The six AZ and NV schools seem to be hot destinations (no pun intended lol) for students coming from the PNW. Most of them will cost you an arm and a leg, but if you applied to all six I guarantee you would get into at least one of them.

 

[CSCS206]

You will have a hard time getting feedback as nobody is accepted to these schools. Nobody from the PNW ever has been, and nobody ever will be. People from Arizona get in on rare occasions. But that's about it. So don't feel bad.

The PNW is a fascinating phenomenon in the pre-PT world. More research is needed to determine the mechanism by which the PT schools there can remain accredited and profitable without ever accepting any students. As of now all we know is that it's possible in the Twilight Zone. Science has yet to crack it.

In all seriousness that seriously sucks that you applied and got rejected two years in a row from all four of those schools. Actually that is just categorically ridiculous. But trust me when I tell you that you are not the only person in that boat. If you are going to re-apply for a third cycle (and major props to you for your perseverance) I highly recommend you start warming up to the idea of giving the PNW schools a big middle finger and looking into other parts of the country to apply to. The six AZ and NV schools seem to be hot destinations (no pun intended lol) for students coming from the PNW. Most of them will cost you an arm and a leg, but if you applied to all six I guarantee you would get into at least one of them.

It's odd - I know a handful who made
it into UW, EWU, and UPS their first try. Not that I have any delusions of grandeur, but I've compared my stats to these individuals and I just don't get how I failed to even be considered.

I am definitely going to have to warm up to that idea. So frustrating though.

 

[DesertPT]

It's odd - I know a handful who made it into UW, EWU, and UPS their first try.

Pics or it didn't happen.

...I just don't get how I failed to even be considered.

It's an unknowable thing. Perhaps when you die and meet God some day he can fill you in. In mortality, though, it is unknowable. So don't drive yourself into depression by trying to understand it.

I am definitely going to have to warm up to that idea. So frustrating though.

I am honestly so sorry for you. The fact that the state in which you live and pay taxes will not allow you to attend professional school there is undeniably abhorrent, particularly for the state schools to do that to you. But UW and EWU screw literally hundreds of Washington residents like this every year. If you want to go to PT school you may have no choice but to decide that if they don't want you than you don't want them either. I'm genuinely sorry for you, you are an extremely qualified candidate and your situation majorly sucks nuts.

 

[tweaze]

It's odd - I know a handful who made
it into UW, EWU, and UPS their first try. Not that I have any delusions of grandeur, but I've compared my stats to these individuals and I just don't get how I failed to even be considered.

I am definitely going to have to warm up to that idea. So frustrating though.

I have shadowed PTs who attended all three of those colleges, but none were able to shed any light on why they were accepted, and their academic records were not particularly notable. They were not bad by any means, but it wasn't a case of individuals with 4.0 GPAs and 340 GRE scores. It remains a mystery.

I have also known a couple of people who didn't want to leave Washington, and they gave up on going to PT school after a few application cycles.

 

[CSCS206]

Pics or it didn't happen.

It's an unknowable thing. Perhaps when you die and meet God some day he can fill you in. In mortality, though, it is unknowable. So don't drive yourself into depression by trying to understand it.

I am honestly so sorry for you. The fact that the state in which you live and pay taxes will not allow you to attend professional school there is undeniably abhorrent, particularly for the state schools to do that to you. But UW and EWU screw literally hundreds of Washington residents like this every year. If you want to go to PT school you may have no choice but to decide that if they don't want you than you don't want them either. I'm genuinely sorry for you, you are an extremely qualified candidate and your situation majorly sucks nuts.

I've spoken at great lengths with their PT admissions advisor who was kind enough to break down the application process for me. Applicants are rated from a 2 (worst) to a 47 (best). The cut-off for waitlisted applicants is a 24. I scored a 23. There are something like 80 acceptance offers made, and another 80 waitlisted. Their waitlist actually grew to ~100 this year because everybody from their waitlist eventually got in... they actually had to get ahold of people who were originally rejected. But even though there are 80(accepted)+100(waitlisted), they had nearly 1,400 applicants this cycle. And.... well, with an n that big, I don't care how long the waitlist is.

I have also known a couple of people who didn't want to leave Washington, and they gave up on going to PT school after a few application cycles.

This is my fear. I have a lot of personal reasons for staying in-state (including that I have roles as the caretaker for my grandparents and mother). I work in a biomechanics lab and the prosthetist that I work with said that the orthotics/prosthetics program in the rehab med dept. at UW eventually started advertising to pre-PT students that failed to get into UW on numerous occasions. I'd hate to say I gave up my on dream though. I'll keep working at it.

 

[DesertPT]

There are something like 80 acceptance offers made, and another 80 waitlisted.

Pics or it didn't happen. 😉 lol

 

[DesertPT]

I work in a biomechanics lab...I'd hate to say I gave up my on dream though. I'll keep working at it.

If you have a decent job so that you won't be starving or going into more debt over the next year and PT really truly is your dream, then I'd say reapply next year out of state. But I can't imagine how painful it is to keep waiting and waiting indefinitely like this. If you do apply again definitely apply to the schools in Washington a third time, but include some other states as well. If you're not going to include several schools in other states, I'd say it's not worth your time and $$$ to reapply. Your chances at Washington schools won't go up. You could certainly get in there next year, no doubt. But don't bank on 3rd time being the charm.

 

[CSCS206]

Pics or it didn't happen. 😉 lol

Unfortunately, I did not bring my recorder to the open house!

If you have a decent job so that you won't be starving or going into more debt over the next year and PT really truly is your dream, then I'd say reapply next year out of state. But I can't imagine how painful it is to keep waiting and waiting indefinitely like this. If you do apply again definitely apply to the schools in Washington a third time, but include some other states as well. If you're not going to include several schools in other states, I'd say it's not worth your time and $$$ to reapply. Your chances at Washington schools won't go up. You could certainly get in there next year, no doubt. But don't bank on 3rd time being the charm.

I haven't given up yet. This research/work opportunity is just to keep me busy and get my feet wet in the world of clinical research. I applied to a few positions as a PT aide but I decided that it wasn't the best idea for me to work full time at one outpatient setting. Instead, I wanted to experience a variety of settings. My part-time internship has allowed me to observe at three different clinics while volunteering in a variety of community service programs.

I'll reapply for sure (if things don't work out).

 

[DesertPT]

I haven't given up yet. This research/work opportunity is just to keep me busy and get my feet wet in the world of clinical research. I applied to a few positions as a PT aide but I decided that it wasn't the best idea for me to work full time at one outpatient setting. Instead, I wanted to experience a variety of settings. My part-time internship has allowed me to observe at three different clinics while volunteering in a variety of community service programs.

I'll reapply for sure (if things don't work out).

Nice one. Here's to hoping for the best for you.

 

[SwampPT]

Unfortunately, I did not bring my recorder to the open house!



I haven't given up yet. This research/work opportunity is just to keep me busy and get my feet wet in the world of clinical research. I applied to a few positions as a PT aide but I decided that it wasn't the best idea for me to work full time at one outpatient setting. Instead, I wanted to experience a variety of settings. My part-time internship has allowed me to observe at three different clinics while volunteering in a variety of community service programs.

I'll reapply for sure (if things don't work out).

I would write a letter to my Congressman and ask him/her to look into it. This situation seems unique in this country. I have yet to see a single person get accepted to a PNW school. If your Congressman is any good he/she will look into it. I've seen Congressman look into far less important issues. I actually think they would be interested to know that their schools are training PT's only to have them go back to their home state. If I was your Congressman I would be pissed and would certainly breath fire on some college presidents.

 

[DesertPT]

I would write a letter to my Congressman and ask him/her to look into it. This situation seems unique in this country. I have yet to see a single person get accepted to a PNW school. If your Congressman is any good he/she will look into it. I've seen Congressman look into far less important issues. I actually think they would be interested to know that their schools are training PT's only to have them go back to their home state. If I was your Congressman I would be pissed and would certainly breath fire on some college presidents.

Many state schools do take a significant number of OOS students. NAU accepts a third of their class from OOS each year and UNLV accepts essentially half their class from OOS. According to PTCAS (who's number are admittedly almost always out of date) the situation is about the same in Washington - UW accepts a third of their class from OOS, and EWU accepts roughly half from OOS. I feel like the Washington schools get a comparable number of applications as the AZ schools. NV may be slightly less. So this is certainly not an isolated phenomenon.

On the other hand, UNM essentially doesn't take non-NM residents (like 1 or 2 accepted per year I think). So state schools can vary from 0-50% of their class being from OOS.

What would be interesting to know is what percentage of people who go to NAU, UNLV or UW/EWU stay in AZ, NV or WA respectively. If these state schools are going to talk in their mission statements about serving the people of their state, they ought to put their money where their mouth is.

But at the end of the day it does seem like the Washington schools are unreasonably difficult for residents to get into, relative to other states. The trend is relatively consistent on here, but I'm sure we are having some sampling bias here on SDN.

 

[CBAforPT]

Any feedback from those who got into UW, EWU, UPS, GFU? This is my second time applying and I pretty much did everything (and more) that was recommended to do in order to strengthen my application.

I was accepted to EWU and will hopefully be attending.
(For reference my stats are 3.99 cGPA and GRE 168V, 162Q, 4.5W)

Based on my understanding/experience schools that don't interview like EWU and UW pretty much rank you based on your cGPA, pGPA, and GRE, and then give some minimal weight to your essays, LORs, and shadowing experiences. Your essays, LORs, and experiences might make the difference if you are on the border of getting accepted or getting on the wait-list but if your ranked cGPA and GRE are too low they likely won't make a big difference. My guess is that your cGPA is what is holding you back, but I don't know how realistic it is for you to raise it enough for EWU or UW to look at you next year (especially since both schools are getting more competitive every year). According to EWU's website their average incoming GPA last year (both cumulative and prerequisite) was 3.8 so you would likely need to raise your GPA to at least a 3.6-3.65 and maybe even raise your GRE even further to get a good position on their wait-list next year.

I would definitely recommend talking to their admissions to see how close you were and see if they will give you the GPA spread of their admitted class to see if you can get within that range. You have a really great application; PNW schools are just crazy competitive. Since George Fox interviews, it is more likely to view your application holistically and so it is likely your best bet at staying in the PNW.

It's odd - I know a handful who made
it into UW, EWU, and UPS their first try. Not that I have any delusions of grandeur, but I've compared my stats to these individuals and I just don't get how I failed to even be considered.

How long ago did these individuals attend? PT schools have become increasingly competitive over the last few years. Many PTs and even professors will freely admit that if they had applied to PT school now (rather than 10, 20, or 30 years ago) they likely would have been rejected or would have needed to attend a different school.

I am really crossing my fingers for you! Do you know what position on George Fox's wait-list you are?

 

[CSCS206]

I was accepted to EWU and will hopefully be attending.
I would definitely recommend talking to their admissions to see how close you were and see if they will give you the GPA spread of their admitted class to see if you can get within that range. You have a really great application; PNW schools are just crazy competitive. Since George Fox interviews, it is more likely to view your application holistically and so it is likely your best bet at staying in the PNW.

I completely agree that it is very difficult to get into school around here. I have spoken quite a bit with Laura from UW to discuss my application and how to improve from last year. She mainly said to improve prereq grades, try to get >50% rank on all GRE sections, obtain stronger endorsements, and continue to accumulate hours. I've also visited UPS on more than one occasion to have a personal tour and to meet with faculty to discuss weaknesses in my application. I received essentially the same advice that UW provided, except UPS was content with my GRE score and said that it would neither harm nor benefit my application if I were to retake it (unless I got a near-perfect score).

As a result, I did everything in my power to improve my application for the following year (the current cycle). I earned my B.S. (top of my class, undergrad commencement speaker finalist), brought my pre-req GPA from a 3.55 to a 3.95, logged over 100 additional hours in two settings (expanding experience to include acute/sub-acute inpatient postsurgical ortho, neuro, pediatric oncology, and more) and added even more outpatient hours. I've also TA'd and tutored for biology, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and also helped out as a guest speaker for a kinesiology course. I participated in research, worked in a biomechanics lab, first authored abstracts and presented at regional symposia. I earned my NSCA-CSCS title (with >95% on both sections!) and I included two stronger PT LORs and a LOR from my academic advisor (former PT/med school admission committee member on the eastcoast). I also sprinkled in a variety of volunteer fundraisers/community service involvement.

This year, I wasn't even waitlisted at UPS. I'm still waiting to meet with them to discuss how I can strengthen my application, but I can imagine that it would be similar to the first time I went over there to talk about it. Ironically, UW was willing to provide feedback the very day I received my rejection. The worst part about it is that I was explicitly told that "there's not really anything you can do to improve your application except for reapply." Competition among 1,300+ applicants proved to be harder than I imagined.

How long ago did these individuals attend? PT schools have become increasingly competitive over the last few years. Many PTs and even professors will freely admit that if they had applied to PT school now (rather than 10, 20, or 30 years ago) they likely would have been rejected or would have needed to attend a different school.

Within the last three or so years.

I am really crossing my fingers for you! Do you know what position on George Fox's wait-list you are?

On the better half of the 75 who were waitlisted.

 

[Mr. Dunkle]

University: Messiah College
Major: Athletic Training
Overall GPA: 3.45 (PTCAS: 3.32)
Prerequisite GPA: 3.32 (PTCAS: 2.98) *Re-taking A&P II, would be 3.51 with an A
GRE: 149V 149Q 4.0AW
Observation Hours: 80 hours inpatient, 20 home health, 100 total between two outpatient clinics
Extracurriculars: Track and Field (2010-2011), Athletic Training Student Association, Pre-Physical Therapy Club, Special Olympics First Aid volunteer, 500+ clinical hours through Athletic Training, 1000+ hours as Physical Therapy aide in outpatient clinic, summer job as lifeguard/assistant manager at a public pool, Dean's List, Cum Laude.

Applied: Arcadia University, Azusa Pacific University, DeSales University, Franklin Pierce University (both campuses), Georgia Regents University, Long Island University, Lynchburg College, Marymount University, Nova Southeastern University (both campuses), Shenandoah University, Thomas Jefferson University, Touro University Nevada, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, University of New England, University of Scranton, University of the Sciences Philadelphia, Slippery Rock University, University of St. Augustine - San Marcos, Western Ketucky University, Wheeling Jesuit University, West Coast University, Wingate University

Interviews: University of New England (10/3), Wheeling Jesuit University (1/16), West Coast University (1/30), DeSales University (2/13), University of St. Augustine - San Marcos (yet to be determined)

Waitlist: University of New England, Wheeling Jesuit University, Lynchburg College

Acceptances: DeSales University!

Rejections: Basically all the ones I didn't get interview invitations to

This is my second year applying and I was nervous I might have needed to apply a third year. Definitely used the spray and pray method which I ended up regretting. Precision applying would have been much more valuable, learned that the hard way. Luckily, I got an acceptance from DeSales. I am truly an example of hard work and dedication that someone with lesser stats can get accepted with a little bit of luck. Please don't give up. I want to commend all of the outstanding applicants that have posted on SDN previously, truly blessed to be joining the likes of such exemplary students.

UNE is my top choice. Would re-taking my GRE be worth it at this point in order for me to get off the wait list? Or do you think I should leave my application as is, because I don't want to put myself through the hell of studying for the GRE again if I don't have to. Any and all insight is appreciated. Again, congrats to all who have gotten in and keep working hard those of you that are still chasing that elusive acceptance letter!

 

[DDJ]

Any feedback from those who got into UW, EWU, UPS, GFU? This is my second time applying and I pretty much did everything (and more) that was recommended to do in order to strengthen my application.

Hi CSCS206, I was accepted into EWU and Pacific University both in the PNW. I will post my stats below for my final update, but I will answer your question here too. While my stats aren't mind blowing, I did have excellent letters of recommendation (5 of them), 2 from PT's I work with in 2 different clinics, 2 from Professors in my major that I was a teaching assistant for, and one from an employer (which EWU now requires). Did you forget to submit an employer LOR perhaps for EWU? It's a new requirement I believe this year. Additionally, EWU said that since they decided to not do interviews this year, they now rely heavily on letters of rec and personal essays for admission. I believe my personal essays/statement were very strong as well. I had several PT's and English major graduate students and two professors give me feedback on them and revised them over a period of 2 months to make sure they were very refined. I also have two undergraduate degrees, one in psychology and one in human physiology. In my essays I emphasized my ability to work with diverse groups of people and gave specific examples from my experiences. Another thing I'll mention is that admissions personnel look for diverse interests in their applicants. What I mean by that is, I emphasized my interest in neuro rehabilitation in my essays while also mentioning I was flexible about working in any area of PT. A majority of applicants emphasize sports rehab and their sports backgrounds and this can look very generic to admissions people since they get so many of those. They may favor people who emphasize an interest in a less popular subset of PT such as neuro or pediatrics or at least this could give those people a leg up in the application process because they want to fill the class with people interested in different things. If you were interested in one of these, that could reduce the competition for you. I really hope you get in, but in the event you do not, the above might be helpful to make the application more competitive. Stats alone definitely do not give a robust enough picture of the admission process because many people with lower stats might get accepted to programs you are not getting into and that is really not a very accurate picture of the applicant or what the admissions people are necessarily looking for. GPA/GRE/Extra curriculars are all very important, but they aren't everything. I also suggest applying as early as possible in the cycle so that spots aren't filled while you are waiting to apply. Anyway, I hope you find this helpful and I sincerely hope you get into a school you really want.

FINAL UPDATE!

Undergrad: Cal State Fullerton - Degree: B.A. Psychology
Post Bacc: University of Oregon - Degree: B.S. Human Physiology; GPA 4.04 on transcript, 3.89 PTCAS
Overall GPA counting both degrees: 3.5 (PTCAS)
Pre-Req GPA: 3.92 (PTCAS) 4.0 other schools that count theirs differently
GRE: 157 Verbal, 150 Q, 5.0 AW (Taken once, I would recommend studying for the math portion! Yikes)

Observation: Outpatient ~600 (I work as a PT Aide) and also observed in a variety of outpatient clinics including hospitals, a neuro rehabilitation hospital, and small and large independent practices for outpatient. Inpatient ~ only 10 hours

Extra Curricular: I'm a non-traditional student being older (33 y/o) so I work full time. Not a lot of time for extras but I volunteer sometimes with Thinkersmith, an organization that helps promote computer science education for young girls and a few homeless support organizations. I was a teaching assistant for a year for Human Physiology and Anatomy classes and I referee little kids basketball on the weekends. I also have a long sports background in softball, martial arts, roller derby, and hockey, but I don't currently participate in any of those.

Work: I work in two PT clinics. One as a front desk scheduler and the other as a PT Aide. It's great getting both perspectives of running a clinic.

Applied to: Columbia, Univ. of Miami, University of Washington, WesternU, University of Vermont, Pacific Univ., Eastern Washington, Pittsburgh, and Duke

Interviews: University of Miami (Declined the interview); Columbia (1/16); Western University of Health Sciences (1/27), Pacific University (2/13)
Acceptance: Columbia (Accepted then withdrew), WesternU, Pacific University (Attending), University of Vermont & Eastern Washington University
Waitlist: Pittsburgh
Rejections: UW

Still waiting to hear from Duke (they sent an email saying I was still being considered for admission) so I figure that's a rejection too. I did apply later in the cycle.

I will be attending Pacific University in Oregon! I'm very happy to be staying in the PNW and especially happy this is over. Good luck to everyone still waiting to hear and applying! 😀

 

[CSCS206]

Hi CSCS206, I was accepted into EWU and Pacific University both in the PNW

First and foremost, CONGRATS! That is awesome news! I cannot wait until the day that I finally get accepted into a DPT program. I bet that feels amazing! 👍👍👍

Hi CSCS206, I was accepted into EWU and Pacific University both in the PNW. Did you forget to submit an employer LOR perhaps for EWU? It's a new requirement I believe this year.

I had also an employer LOR on my PTCAS application. In addition to my academic advisor's LOR and the LORs of two PTs, I had my biomechanics professor positively endorse me as well. He is my current supervisor/employer at the biomechanics laboratory that I have been working at for the past year.

I believe my personal essays/statement were very strong as well. I had several PT's and English major graduate students and two professors give me feedback on them and revised them over a period of 2 months to make sure they were very refined. In my essays I emphasized my ability to work with diverse groups of people and gave specific examples from my experiences.

I felt strong in my essays as well. They were the areas in which UW and UPS thought to be my strongest. I spent at least four months on the general PTCAS essay and at least two months drafting the school specific essays. My advisor (who has admission committee experience) also assisted in my drafts along with a handful of English majors and supervisors at several nearby hospitals and health clinics. I too felt that I described myself as being well-rounded and diverse, especially in UW's essay regarding individuals from undeserved/diverse backgrounds and cultures. My family came from a very underprivileged background in the Philippines. I also come from a natural health arts and science institution that is more renowned for the naturopathic medicine program. I eloquently described how my studies at Bastyr taught me view healthcare and patient needs as holistic as possible while focusing on the important of interdisciplinary interactions.

Another thing I'll mention is that admissions personnel look for diverse interests in their applicants. What I mean by that is, I emphasized my interest in neuro rehabilitation in my essays while also mentioning I was flexible about working in any area of PT. A majority of applicants emphasize sports rehab and their sports backgrounds and this can look very generic to admissions people since they get so many of those. They may favor people who emphasize an interest in a less popular subset of PT such as neuro or pediatrics or at least this could give those people a leg up in the application process because they want to fill the class with people interested in different things.

I tried to approach my interests in a similar fashion as well. I will have to say that I have a limited sports background and that it is not even close to being my area of focus, although I was active in many sports until jr. high/high school. In terms of patient settings and populations, I expressed my personal interest in geriatrics therapy because of personal family experiences. Furthermore, my mother is a geriatrics nurse that has instilled within me a unique patient-centric perspective with respect to senior healthcare. I've spoken to a handful of applicants who unfortunately seem to intentionally avoid this particular demographic. However, I think it's a great area to work in. For the past year, I have been volunteering at Seattle Children's and have been blessed with very moving experiences, including pediatric oncology therapy. I also made sure to emphasize this in my application. My unique role as a biomechanics lab investigator has also allowed me have a unique research background with pediatric patients and therapists while focusing on pathological locomotion. My essays discussed my experiences with transtibial amputee children and kids with hemiplegic cerebral palsy, particularly with the intervention of physical therapy and novel microprocessor-controlled ankles and ankle-foot orthoses. I tried to highlight my ability to interact with a patient's healthcare team as I often have to do (PTs, ortho surgeons, prosthetists, orthotists, biomechanics, etc.). Furthermore, I discussed the implications of my research involvement in biomechanics and PT for post-stroke adult patients and a variety of neurological populations. I also found it important to take a receptive approach, noting that we could spend a lifetime focusing on the nuances of each particular patient population and that I'd be enthusiastic to work with anybody. I've currently been in five different PT locations and have made preparations to observe in at least three more in the coming year if my situation does not improve. Maybe I felt too comfortable with my PT experience.... clearly it didn't work to my advantage.

I appreciate your input!

 

[pepprann]

University: *Lake Washington Institute of Technology, **Bastyr University
Major: AAS Fitness Specialist*, BS Exercise Science and Wellness**
Overall GPA: 3.45
Pre-Req GPA: 3.95 (due to re-taking A&P which tainted my 4.0 because of the average)
GRE: 151 V, 152 Q, 4.0 A (first attempt), 150 V, 155 Q, 5.0 A (second attempt)

Extra-Curric:

• Asian Counseling and Referral Service, activities coordinator/group exercise instructor
• Puget Sound Mental Health, "wellness workshop" instructor
• BLD (youth group), youth leader, music ministry, retreat facilitator
• Orthocare Innovations, biomechanics laboratory intern, researcher/investigator
• Biomechanics I, II (course), TA
• Kinesiology (course), guest speaker
• Human Biology (course), tutor
• Bastyr University Mentorship Program, mentor
• Bastyr University Student Council , exercise science representative
• Sports Nutrition Club
• LWIT Annual Health and Wellness Expo, volunteer
• LWIT Fitness Center, intern supervisor
• Benevolent Adult Family Homes, activities coordinator
• 5K Fun Run Fundraiser volunteer
• Local food drive
• Alzheimer's fundraiser

Professional Titles/Memberships:

• Certified Exercise Physiologist/Health Fitness Specialist, American College of Sports Medicine
• Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, National Strength and Conditioning Association
• Certified Personal Trainer, National Council on Strength and Fitness
• Certified Basic Life Support Provider, American Heart Association
• Certified Alliance Member, American College of Sports Medicine
• Student Member, National Strength and Conditioning Association
• Student Member, American Society of Biomechanics
• Student Member, National Health and Exercise Science Association

Volunteer/Observation: total number of hours: 660+
480 hours (3 different outpatient clinics, general ortho), 30 hours (inpatient acute/sub-acute, skilled nursing, geriatrics), 150 (inpatient acute, children's hospital, pediatrics)

Rejections: University of Washington (2013-2014; 2014-2015), Eastern Washington University (2013-2014, 2014-2015), University of Puget Sound (2014-2015)
Interviews: George Fox University (2014-2015)
Waitlisted: University of Puget Sound (2013-2014), George Fox University (2014-2015)
Acceptances: NONE

Any feedback from those who got into UW, EWU, UPS, GFU? This is my second time applying and I pretty much did everything (and more) that was recommended to do in order to strengthen my application.

Hi CSCS,

I got into UPS; it was actually the only West Coast school I applied to since I'm from North Carolina. Your extracurriculars look great, so I would guess it has more to do with your overall GPA and GRE (even though they are by no means close to the bottom percent of students applying).
I posted my stats about a page back, but here's a few:

Overall GPA: 3.96 (B.A. in Psychology, minors in English & Spanish)
Prereq GPA: 3.98
GRE: 164V, 156Q, 5.0W
I shadowed/volunteered about 125 hours across acute, outpatient (sports, geriatrics, work), and neuro/peds. I had one really awesome PT rec (volunteered with her for 2 years), a rec from my professor/department head/research supervisor, and a rec from my former boss on campus. Nothing too crazy, but I know all of them fairly well. My extras were research, honors, sport clubs, tutoring, jobs, etc. I actually didn't spend weeks on my essay, but I did write about 3 completely different drafts and tweaked the one I was happy with.
I would say, like prior posters, that these PNW schools are probably basing their acceptances to start on an academic cutoff. Belmont (another school I applied to) offers interviews, but I'm pretty sure you only get an interview if you have already passed a similar cutoff. It may be the lazy way to evaluate applicants, but who knows, maybe they have found a significant correlation between high academic stats and people who excel in their program.

I'm sorry you can't leave that area, but I wish you the best of luck! My only advice is maybe try to raise your overall GPA if possible and retake the GRE. I don't see that there is a way you can improve otherwise based on what you've written. Everything else looks great!

 

[Manzielin]

@OSUkid the main reason I did not apply to OSU was because I was missing too many pre-reqs. I was missing 3 pre-reqs at the time I submitted my application and they only allow you to be missing two. Also, I have this vision of hanging out on the beach, drinking a corona, and studying my PT notes 🙂 So Florida seemed like the perfect spot for me.

For OSU, does an in-progress pre-req in the fall qualify as a missing pre-req?

 

[SwampPT]

I completely agree that it is very difficult to get into school around here. I have spoken quite a bit with Laura from UW to discuss my application and how to improve from last year. She mainly said to improve prereq grades, try to get >50% rank on all GRE sections, obtain stronger endorsements, and continue to accumulate hours. I've also visited UPS on more than one occasion to have a personal tour and to meet with faculty to discuss weaknesses in my application. I received essentially the same advice that UW provided, except UPS was content with my GRE score and said that it would neither harm nor benefit my application if I were to retake it (unless I got a near-perfect score).

As a result, I did everything in my power to improve my application for the following year (the current cycle). I earned my B.S. (top of my class, undergrad commencement speaker finalist), brought my pre-req GPA from a 3.55 to a 3.95, logged over 100 additional hours in two settings (expanding experience to include acute/sub-acute inpatient postsurgical ortho, neuro, pediatric oncology, and more) and added even more outpatient hours. I've also TA'd and tutored for biology, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, and also helped out as a guest speaker for a kinesiology course. I participated in research, worked in a biomechanics lab, first authored abstracts and presented at regional symposia. I earned my NSCA-CSCS title (with >95% on both sections!) and I included two stronger PT LORs and a LOR from my academic advisor (former PT/med school admission committee member on the eastcoast). I also sprinkled in a variety of volunteer fundraisers/community service involvement.

This year, I wasn't even waitlisted at UPS. I'm still waiting to meet with them to discuss how I can strengthen my application, but I can imagine that it would be similar to the first time I went over there to talk about it. Ironically, UW was willing to provide feedback the very day I received my rejection. The worst part about it is that I was explicitly told that "there's not really anything you can do to improve your application except for reapply." Competition among 1,300+ applicants proved to be harder than I imagined.


Within the last three or so years.


On the better half of the 75 who were waitlisted.

You're probably the strongest candidate I have seen on this site. Its astonishing that they didn't accept you immediately. As picky as they are you would think they would all rank in the top 5

 

[CSCS206]

Hi CSCS,


I would say, like prior posters, that these PNW schools are probably basing their acceptances to start on an academic cutoff. Belmont (another school I applied to) offers interviews, but I'm pretty sure you only get an interview if you have already passed a similar cutoff. It may be the lazy way to evaluate applicants, but who knows, maybe they have found a significant correlation between high academic stats and people who excel in their program.

I'm sorry you can't leave that area, but I wish you the best of luck! My only advice is maybe try to raise your overall GPA if possible and retake the GRE. I don't see that there is a way you can improve otherwise based on what you've written. Everything else looks great!

I feel like I would have to do quite a bit of "fluff" classes to pull up my overall GPA to at least a respectable 3.7 or more. I've debated taking the GRE again and was told that it probably wouldn't affect my application much, according to admissions counselors, but I feel like that recommendation is rather subjective considering each committee member may not share the same perspective. Regarding my test score, I never took the SATs and feel at a disadvantage with standardized tests. I studied extensively with five prep books (including TPRs 1,007+ practice questions, ETS, Kaplan) and took a handful of practice tests under similar conditions (on which I would score at least 160 on both sections). I added every recommended vocab word and list that I could find (at least 1,000 within three months) and felt pretty good about my chances. But I could never replicate my level of confidence, preparation, and ultimately, results on test day. I could've been psyching myself out each time. I tend to get anxiety during tests. In fact, I've taken the a total of test three times. I improved from my very first attempt (145 Q, 149 V or something like that), which was good to UPS. This is probably why they didn't mind my GRE score listed in my stats. I only reported attempts two and three on my PTCAS applications, however, as recommended by UW.

*edit: I had my GRE timeline mixed up.

 

[pepprann]

Yeah, I know I would hate spending money on extra classes just to raise my GPA.

Before standardized tests, I usually have to pump myself up. But then the math sections happen, and I always freak out at least a little.
Honestly, I feel better prepared for these kinds of test by relearning some math I've forgotten (like geometry) and reading a lot or going over grammar rules. For me the prep books only help so much, more with the wording and style of the test content than anything. I think actually that taking physics and chemistry helped the most since they taught me how to work on solving problems.

I don't know what to tell you. I hope those admissions committees have real advice to give you. Obviously, you have the ambition and motivation to be a PT. Who knows what those people want.

 

[CSCS206]

Yeah, I know I would hate spending money on extra classes just to raise my GPA.

Before standardized tests, I usually have to pump myself up. But then the math sections happen, and I always freak out at least a little.
Honestly, I feel better prepared for these kinds of test by relearning some math I've forgotten (like geometry) and reading a lot or going over grammar rules. For me the prep books only help so much, more with the wording and style of the test content than anything. I think actually that taking physics and chemistry helped the most since they taught me how to work on solving problems.

I don't know what to tell you. I hope those admissions committees have real advice to give you. Obviously, you have the ambition and motivation to be a PT. Who knows what those people want.

lol and yes! After taking physics and taking the GRE again, I felt better with numbers. But I needed similar word-puzzles to just practice under time-constraints. Without worrying about the clock, I'm pretty sure we can all get a perfect score on both sections. Personally, I wish they had a sort of pre-PT exam to test our knowledge on the basic sciences. I feel much more confident in my ability to recall and rehearse for a test like that!

 

[RP3723]

@DDJ Congrats on your acceptances! When did you decline Columbia? I'm on the waitlist.

 

[led3]

UPDATE REJECTION

University: University of Rhode Island
Major: Biological Sciences
Overall GPA (PTCAS): 3.28
Pre-Req GPA: 3.40
GRE: 152V, 150Q, 4.5AW
Extras: URI Pre-PT Club, bio./chem. tutor @ URI, involved with Special Olympics, as well as the PKD foundation
Observation Hours: 3000+ outpatient ortho. (aide), 15 inpatient/acute care, 15 skilled nursing facility, 20 pediatrics

Applied: URI, MGH, UNE, Sacred Heart, Springfield, Franklin Pierce (NH)
Interviews: Sacred Heart (1/17)
Acceptances: Franklin Pierce (NH)
Rejections: URI, MGH, Springfield, UNE
Waitlists: Sacred Heart

not as successful as I thought/hoped I'd be... but I still got in, thankfully!

 

[pt2018]

I just wanted to chime in that it is possible to get into UW with a lower GPA.
My PTCAS GPA is 3.4ish but my GRE scores are in the 160s. I am out of state but I have extensive research experience and was accepted.

If you look on their site they list their profile (for last year probably):
Total qualified applicants: 729
Students accepted into program: 45 (6 were re-applicants)
Prerequisite GPA (average): 3.69 (range: 3.13 - 4.00)
Cumulative GPA (average): 3.65 (range: 3.12 - 4.00)
GRE General Test (average % rank): 61-76% (depending on section)

Also according to PTCAS
Percent of OUT-OF-STATE (non-resident) applicants accepted 30%

 

[dptbound!]

So happy this process is over and that I was accepted to my top school! I want to wish everyone luck next year on our way to becoming PTs!

Major: Kinesiology w/ a minor in biology
Overall GPA: 3.51
Prereq GPA: 3.53
Applied: Shenandoah University, Marymount University, ODU, VCU, Hampton University, Mary Baldwin, Lynchburg College
GRE: V: 156 Q: 151 W: 4.0
Interviews: Shenandoah, Mary Baldwin, Marymount (declined)
Acceptances: ODU, VCU, Mary Baldwin, Lynchburg College, Hampton University
Waitlist: Shenandoah
Rejections: None

I will be attending VCU!

Cheers and good luck everyone!

 

[mzaquino92]

University: UC Santa Barbara
Major: Sociology
Overall: 3.46
Pre-Req: 3.75 (PTCAS) or 3.96 (Chapman replaces lower grade with higher grade if the class is a retake)
GRE: 151 V, 151 Q, 4.5 AW
Hours: 64 (Outpatient Orthopedic) 45 (Outpatient Pediatric)

Applied: Chapman Fall 2015 and Spring 2016

Rejections: None
Acceptances: None

I haven't heard a word back from Chapman besides them informing me they received my Academic Update. I have a bad feeling since it got there early February they haven't even looked at my application yet. I'm hoping if I don't get into the Fall, my scores are good enough to get into the Spring class. Admissions already informed me that pre-req GPA and GRE score are all that is really looked at, so hopefully my GRE score doesn't hurt my chances.

UPDATE***
Acceptance: Chapman Fall 2015 or Summer 2016
Attending: Chapman Fall 2015

I can finally breathe! So excited to start in the Fall!

 

[navybluedreams]

So happy this process is over and that I was accepted to my top school! I want to wish everyone luck next year on our way to becoming PTs!

Major: Kinesiology w/ a minor in biology
Overall GPA: 3.51
Prereq GPA: 3.53
Applied: Shenandoah University, Marymount University, ODU, VCU, Hampton University, Mary Baldwin, Lynchburg College
GRE: V: 156 Q: 151 W: 4.0
Interviews: Shenandoah, Mary Baldwin, Marymount (declined)
Acceptances: ODU, VCU, Mary Baldwin, Lynchburg College
Waitlist: Shenandoah
Rejections: None

Still haven't heard from Hampton. Said they would contact by the 20th, but I have already made my decision!
I will be attending VCU!

Cheers and good luck everyone!

Congratulations!
Question - VCU is a pretty competitive school to get into, and it doesn't help that they don't interview. What do believe you had that really enticed your VCU acceptance?? I'm hoping that I'll be able to get into VCU when I apply for the next cycle!