Apply
How to Apply
The CUNY School of Medicine Physician Assistant Program participates in the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). Applications open July 1 and close December 1 at 11:59 PM (ET).
Application Checklist
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (degree may be in progress if completed by June 15).
- Complete all prerequisite coursework (see Admissions Requirements for full list).
- Submit three letters of recommendation, including one from a physician or PA who can speak directly to your experience.
- Demonstrate direct patient care experience (1,000+ hours recommended).
- Submit a personal statement and CASPA program-specific essays.
- Meet all application deadlines.
Note: We do not accept mail or email documents. All materials must be submitted through CASPA.
Application Timeline
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| July 1 | CASPA application opens |
| December 1 | Final deadline for application submission |
| January- March | Interview invitations and admissions decisions released |
| April 1 | Final round of admission decision notifications |
Interview Process
- Interviews are required and are held in person from the end of January to mid-March.
- Only competitive applicants who meet all minimum requirements will be invited.
- Interviewees will be asked to submit a passport-sized photo and bring an ID.
- Final decisions are issued beginning March 1 through April 1; a $250 deposit secures a seat.
After You Apply
- Applications must be completed and verified by CASPA.
- The Admissions Committee reviews verified applications and selects candidates for interview.
- All applicants will receive a decision notification via email.
Academic Updates (CASPA)
Applicants may submit an Academic Update after verification to report grades for planned or in-progress coursework. These grades will not be verified or included in CASPA GPA calculations.
- CASPA transcript updates are accepted until April 1 at 5 PM ET.
- Coursework not previously listed as “planned” or “in-progress” cannot be edited.
International & Foreign Medical Graduates (FMG)
- International transcripts must be evaluated by WES.
- TOEFL score ≥ 75 IBT or IELTS ≥ 6.5 is required unless you meet exemption criteria (e.g., U.S. citizenship or 4+ semesters at a U.S. college).
- International applicants must also complete CCNY’s International Student Office requirements to receive an I-20.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many applications are received annually?
Approximately 1,500.
Can I apply with pending coursework?
Yes — up to two prerequisites may be outstanding at time of application. They must be completed by December 31 with a grade of B or higher.
Do prerequisite courses expire?
Yes. The following must be completed within seven years of applying:
1- Microbiology with lab
2- Statistics
3- Two of: Cell & Molecular Biology, Genetics, Mammalian Physiology, Biochemistry, or Anatomy & Physiology I & II (lab required)
1- Microbiology with lab
2- Statistics
3- Two of: Cell & Molecular Biology, Genetics, Mammalian Physiology, Biochemistry, or Anatomy & Physiology I & II (lab required)
Are AP or CLEP credits accepted?
No credit by examination (CLEP) is accepted. AP scores must be 4 or 5, and are reviewed case-by-case.
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