PTCAS CHECKLIST for 2009-10

The PTCAS checklist is intended to assist you in the 2009-10 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. Admission policies vary. Review the online PTCAS Directory for program-specific requirements. 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 a new PTCAS application account to obtain your PTCAS ID number.
  • Use the "PTCAS Transcript Request Form" to arrange for PTCAS to receive ALL of your official U.S. transcripts by the application deadline
  • Enter ALL of your U.S. college courses using personal copies of your transcripts.
  • Arrange for your fall 2009 transcripts to arrive at PTCAS by no later than January 15. Enter your updated fall courses on your PTCAS application during the Academic Update.
  • 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), if required by your designated programs.
  • 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, if required by your designated programs.
  • Arrange for a licensed physical therapist to review your PT observation hours and send the signed PTCAS Observation Hours form directly to PTCAS by the deadline, if required by your designated programs.
  • Submit the correct PTCAS fee by the deadline.
  • Submit a supplemental application and fee directly to the PT program, if required by your designated programs.
  • Review your application for accuracy. You cannot edit most items after you e-submit.
  • Print your completed application for your personal records.
  • Frequently check your email and login to your application for important messages from PTCAS.

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
  • Research the PT programs to determine the ones that may best meet your educational needs.
  • Request a personal copy of all of your transcripts so you may properly complete the Coursework section of the PTCAS application.
  • 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
  • Arrange to fulfill any missing program requirements, such as taking the GRE or registering for missing prerequisite courses
  • 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.