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Test Prep6 min read·Updated April 15, 2026

Do You Need the GRE for PA School?

Many PA programs have dropped the GRE; others still require it. Here is how to check, what scores are competitive, and how the PA-CAT fits in.

ByAngela Woodbury·
Key Takeaways
  • Many PA programs have made the GRE optional or dropped it entirely; CASPA lets you see GRE requirements school-by-school.
  • Competitive GRE for PA school is typically 305–310+ combined (Verbal + Quantitative) with 4.0+ Analytical Writing.
  • The PA-CAT exists but adoption is limited — only a small number of programs require or accept it.

The GRE Requirement Landscape

Over the past 5–7 years, a significant share of PA programs have made the GRE optional or dropped it entirely. Driving factors include holistic admissions efforts, COVID-era testing access issues, and research questioning the GRE's predictive validity for PA performance.

Each year, the CASPA program directory updates GRE requirements per program. Always check directly — relying on advice from older forums is unreliable because policies have shifted quickly.

What Scores Are Competitive

For programs that still require the GRE, competitive ranges are roughly:

  • Verbal: 150+ (around 50th percentile). 155+ is strong.
  • Quantitative: 150+ (around 35th percentile, since QR averages skew higher in the test population). 155+ is strong.
  • Analytical Writing: 4.0+ on the 0–6 scale (around 55th percentile).
  • Combined V+Q: 305–310+ is competitive for most programs; 310+ at more selective programs.

PA-CAT: An Alternative?

The PA-CAT (Physician Assistant College Admission Test) is a PA-specific exam testing prerequisite science content. It exists, but adoption remains limited — only a small number of PA programs require or even accept it as part of their application.

Take the PA-CAT only if a program you are targeting explicitly requires or recommends it. For applicants with strong prerequisite GPAs, the PA-CAT generally adds little. For applicants with weaker science GPAs, a strong PA-CAT can occasionally function as additional standardized evidence — but it is not a widely accepted substitute for the GRE.

Should You Take the GRE?

Decision framework:

  • Take it if any program on your list requires it. Even one required program means you need the test.
  • Take it if your GPA is below 3.5 and you want an additional standardized score to demonstrate academic ability. A strong GRE can supplement an otherwise borderline application even at GRE-optional programs.
  • Skip it if none of your target programs require it and your GPA is competitive (3.5+). Spend the prep time on healthcare hours or personal statement instead.
  • Skip it if you are running out of time before CASPA opens and your scores would arrive too late to be useful.

GRE scores are valid for 5 years, so if you take it in college as a backstop, the score will still be valid when you apply to PA school 2–4 years later.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the program. Many PA programs have dropped the GRE; some still require it; some accept it as an alternative to a stronger GPA. Check each program’s admissions page or the CASPA program directory.

For programs that still require it, 305+ combined is typically competitive, with at least 150 on both Verbal and Quantitative and a 4.0+ on Analytical Writing. Top programs may want 310+.

The PA-CAT is a PA-specific science exam, but adoption remains limited. Most programs do not require it. Take it only if your target schools specifically request it.

Generally no — your time is better spent on healthcare experience hours, prerequisite GPA, and personal statement. Take the GRE only if a program you want requires it or if you have a low GPA and need a standardized score to demonstrate ability.

Take it 4–8 weeks before you submit CASPA. Plan 1–2 months of prep. GRE scores are valid for 5 years, so taking it during college is also fine if you know you will apply.

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About the Author

Angela Woodbury
Angela Woodbury

Co-Founder · PA School Applicant

B.S. Health SciencesCASPA Applicant 2026Co-Founder, White Coat World

Angela navigated the CASPA process in 2026 alongside building White Coat World. She writes about the experience side of healthcare applications — how to frame your hours, write personal statements, and present yourself as a well-rounded candidate.

Educational Disclaimer: White Coat World provides educational resources for pre-health students. Admissions requirements vary by institution and change each cycle. Always verify shadowing hour requirements, GPA cutoffs, and application deadlines directly with your target schools. This content is not licensed advising.