Interview and Selection Process

Completed applications are reviewed to determine which applicants merit invitations for on-campus and/or virtual interviews. The following criteria are used to select the most qualified candidates for interview invitations: science and cumulative grade point averages (GPA), rigor of undergraduate and prerequisite courses, letters of recommendation, healthcare experience, knowledge of the profession, and motivation for a career as a PA. Additionally, in all aspects of the Program, the Program is committed to achieving and fostering diversity, inclusion, and equality to enrich the educational experience and realize the University’s and Program’s missions and goals. Interviews are typically scheduled during the months of August through January. Applicants selected to interview will be notified by e-mail or telephone of available dates. Interviews are required before final admissions decisions are made.

At the time of application, students enrolled in another Midwestern University program are guaranteed an admission interview with the Physician Assistant Program if they meet the requirements outlined in the Articulation Agreement Between Midwestern University Programs of this catalog.

The Dean of the College of Health Sciences may recommend for an interview, applicants who meet the Program’s minimum requirements for which they are applying (e.g., children of alumni, faculty, or staff). These applicants are not guaranteed admission into a Program and will have their application reviewed similarly to other applicants being considered for acceptance. All admissions decisions are made by the program Admissions Committee.

Applicants who have been invited to participate in a required on-campus or virtual interview will be evaluated on verbal communication skills, understanding of the profession, commitment to patient care, and/or other elements as determined by the program. The interview day will also provide applicants with an opportunity to learn more about the Physician Assistant program, financial aid programs, and student services. A campus tour and lunch will be provided for interviews conducted in-person.

The PA Admissions Committee which also includes the PA Program Director as a member, reviews the complete applications of candidates who were interviewed and then makes admissions decisions utilizing a holistic admissions process that considers various characteristics of an applicant.  These characteristics are similar to what were used to select candidates for an interview. Additionally, in all aspects of the Program, the Program is committed to achieving and fostering diversity, inclusion, and equality to enrich the educational experience and realize the University’s and Program’s missions and goals. Once admissions decisions are made, the CHS Dean, via the Office of Admissions, then notifies applicants in writing of admissions decisions. All applicants with complete applications will receive notification in writing regarding their status by the end of March.

Please Note: Applicants who interview before December 31 are required to submit documentation verifying any outstanding coursework in progress (by providing a copy of a class schedule or a transcript listing the coursework). Applicants must submit documentation of satisfactory completion of prerequisites no later than the December 31st deadline. Applicants who fail to submit this proof by the designated date will not be considered for admission into the Program.