Advice & Insight From PA Application Specialists
The Wake Forest class of 2023, the most recent year for which the university publicly releases information, consisted of 89 students with an average GPA of 3.57. Applicants must sit the CASPer test, an online situational judgement test designed to assess non-cognitive attributes and interpersonal characteristics. The CASPer, despite what its creators might say, can and should be prepared for using a question bank in order to familiarise yourself with the format and correct method of answering. Additionally, you should have healthcare experience that involves direct interaction with patients. You must have at least 1000 hours of healthcare employment or other direct patient contact in order to apply.
The following courses must be completed with at least a C grade achieved:
– genetics (one semester)
– general chemistry (one semester) or organic chemistry (one semester)
– biochemistry (one semester)
– human anatomy or human physiology (one full academic year)
– microbiology (one semester)
– statistics (one semester)
– medical terminology (one course)
The Wake Forest School of Medicine PA program has a rolling admission format, although you should note that early applicants are more likely to be prioritised. Interview day will include the opportunity to speak with faculty, staff and current PA students, to interview with faculty, and to participate in a mock IBL session. You would do well to learn more about IBL in advance, to be prepared for the interviews as well as the IBL session itself. IBL, Inquiry Based Learning, should be seen as separate to PBL, Problem Based Learning, and you may wish to do some academic research on its benefits compared to its better known cousin.
The CASPA application deadline is September 1st, although early applications are highly encouraged. The GRE submission deadline and supplemental application deadline is October 1st. You must have completed pre-admission health care experience by October 1st. CASPer score distribution must be by October 6th. Interviews will happen in Fall. All course prerequisites must be complete by December 31st.
The school emphasises the following areas as being of particular importance: leadership, volunteering or military service, diversity of life experience, success in overcoming adversity, and aptitude for self-directed and adult learning.
Leadership
Learn the best interview strategies and practice with interview questions & model answers.
Service
Diversity of Experience
Overcoming Adversity
Aptitude for Self-Directed Learning
