Thinking of Becoming a PA? What Majors to Study for the Highest Acceptance Rates

If you're planning to apply to Physician Assistant (PA) school, you've probably already been told it doesn’t matter what you major in. As long as you complete the required prerequisites. While that’s technically true, data from the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA) tells a deeper story. Certain undergraduate majors not only prepare students better for PA school but also result in higher acceptance rates.

This guide breaks down the best majors for PA school based on the latest acceptance statistics, career preparation, and curriculum compatibility. Whether you're a freshman deciding on a major or a junior fine-tuning your PA school strategy, this article will help you make an informed decision.

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Why Your Major Can Affect Your PA School Acceptance Odds

Most PA programs care more about GPA, patient care experience, and prerequisite coursework than your specific degree. However, your major can still influence:

How easily you can meet PA school prerequisites
Your ability to maintain a high science and overall GPA
Your opportunities to gain healthcare-related experience
How well your academic background aligns with the rigors of PA training

Let’s look at which majors statistically lead to more PA school acceptances — and why.

Top Majors for PA School Ranked by Acceptance Rate

Based on the PAEA’s 2020–2021 Matriculating Student Survey, here’s how common undergraduate majors stack up when it comes to getting into PA school.

#1. Health Sciences

Acceptance Rate Estimate: ~46–50%

Health sciences degrees (like Health Science, Health Studies, or Pre-Health) consistently rank among the most common and successful majors for PA school. These programs are usually designed with medical careers in mind, making it easier to complete PA prerequisites and gain clinical exposure early.

Why it works:

Built-in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology courses
Programs often partner with hospitals or clinics for internships
Strong alignment with PA program expectations

Best for:

Students who know early that they want a clinical career.

#2. Biology

Acceptance Rate Estimate: ~42%

Biology remains one of the most popular majors for aspiring PAs — and with good reason. It covers most PA prerequisites (like microbiology and genetics), provides a solid foundation in the life sciences, and keeps you eligible for a wide range of medical careers if you change course.

Why it works:

Covers core prerequisites like general biology, chemistry, and anatomy
Encourages lab-based critical thinking
Flexible career pivot potential

Tip:

Watch your GPA. Biology can be competitive and GPA-heavy.

#3. Exercise Science / Kinesiology

Acceptance Rate Estimate: ~39–43%

Degrees in Exercise Science or Kinesiology focus on the human body, movement, and health, which makes them a great fit for PA school preparation. Many programs also include physiology, sports medicine, and nutrition — all relevant for patient care.

Why it works:

Strong background in physiology and human performance
Often includes hands-on practicums and internships
Easier to maintain a competitive GPA than biology or chemistry majors

Perfect for:

Students interested in orthopedics, sports medicine, or rehabilitation-focused PA roles.

#4. Psychology

Acceptance Rate Estimate: ~38–42%

Psychology majors may not be the obvious choice for PA school, but they are increasingly successful applicants. Understanding behavior, cognition, and mental health is vital for holistic patient care — and many PAs work in mental health, primary care, or psychiatry.

Why it works:

Boosts patient communication and empathy
Aligns well with behavioral medicine tracks
Prepares you for psychiatric or primary care settings

Keep in mind:

You’ll need to supplement your major with heavy science coursework.

#5. Biomedical Sciences

Acceptance Rate Estimate: ~44%

This major is often the most tailored to pre-health students. Biomedical science programs go deep into molecular biology, physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology — topics you’ll revisit in PA school.

Why it works:

Intense science focus prepares you well for PA curriculum
Designed to cover PA school prerequisites
Research opportunities may boost your application

Note: The rigorous coursework may be more challenging GPA-wise, so plan accordingly.

Other Majors That Can Work (With the Right Planning)

You don't have to major in science to get into PA school. Non-traditional majors like Public Health, Nursing, Sociology, and even English or Anthropology can work as long as you complete the required prerequisites.

What matters more:

Your overall and science GPA
Completion of PA school prerequisites (biology, chemistry, anatomy, etc.)
Direct patient care experience
A compelling personal statement and letters of recommendation

Common PA School Prerequisites (Regardless of Major)

While every program is different, most PA schools require:

General Biology with Lab (2 semesters)
General Chemistry with Lab (2 semesters)
Anatomy and Physiology
Microbiology
Organic or Biochemistry
Statistics or College Algebra
Psychology (General and/or Abnormal)

Check with specific PA programs for exact course requirements. You can explore accredited U.S. programs via the PAEA Program Directory.

GPA vs Major: What Matters More?

GPA is one of the most important factors in PA school admissions. According to PAEA data:

Average overall GPA of accepted students: 3.6
Average science GPA: 3.5
Average healthcare experience: 1,500–3,000 hours

It’s better to choose a major where you can thrive academically than to choose a science-heavy degree that tanks your GPA.

Boost Your Chances: Combine Your Major with Clinical Experience Abroad

No matter your major, admissions committees want to see real-world, patient-facing experience. One powerful way to stand out is through a global health internship that gives you hands-on exposure.

Go Elective offers pre-physician assistant internships in Kenya and Tanzania where students gain direct clinical shadowing in departments like general medicine, emergency care, pediatrics, and surgery. These immersive experiences provide:

Valuable patient care hours
Cultural competence
Mentorship from experienced clinicians
Exposure to healthcare challenges in low-resource settings

> Learn more about Physician Assistant Internships Abroad with Go Elective or our Pre-Physician Assistant Programs.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Major In for PA School?

There’s no single best major for PA school. But some paths statistically yield more success than others. Choose a major that:

Helps you meet prerequisites
Lets you maintain a strong GPA
Supports your interest in patient care
Opens doors to valuable healthcare experiences

Whether you study biology or psychology, what matters most is how you prepare. Supplement your academics with meaningful clinical exposure, strong academics, and a compelling application — and you’ll be on your way to a successful PA school admission.