PA Schools That Don’t Require the GRE in 2025 | Full List & Application Tips

Thinking about becoming a Physician Assistant (PA) but worried about the GRE? You’re not alone. While the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) used to be a common requirement, more and more PA programs are waiving it. That means you still have excellent options even if you choose not to sit for the exam.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• Which PA schools don’t require the GRE
• Why some programs have dropped the requirement
• Tips to strengthen your application without GRE scores

Looking for a pre-PA or PA Internship abroad? Inquire here.

Do PA Schools Require the GRE?

Traditionally, many PA programs included the GRE as part of their admissions requirements. However, in recent years, over 100 accredited PA programs across the U.S. have made the GRE optional or eliminated it altogether.

That’s great news for applicants who prefer to focus on GPA, healthcare experience, and personal statements rather than standardized testing

Top PA Programs That Don’t Require the GRE

Here are some highly ranked schools that do not require GRE scores:

Full List of PA Schools Without GRE Requirements

More than 100 PA programs waive the GRE, including:

1. A.T. Still University
2. Advent Health University
3. Charles R. Drew University
4. Drexel University
5. Hofstra University
6. Loma Linda University
7. Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences
8. New York Institute of Technology
9. Northeastern University
10. Rutgers University
11. Stony Brook University
12. University of California–Davis
13. University of Florida
14. University of North Dakota
15. University of Utah
16. University of Wisconsin–Madison
17. Xavier University of Louisiana

(See program websites for the latest updates, as requirements can change.)

3 Ways to Strengthen Your Application Without GRE Scores

Even if a school doesn’t ask for GRE results, you’ll still need a competitive application. Here’s how:

1. Prioritize Prerequisite Courses

Most PA programs require biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and psychology. Aim for strong grades in these courses, and if possible, add upper-level sciences like immunology or microbiology to show academic readiness.

2. Write a Compelling Personal Statement

Your essay should clearly explain why you want to become a PA and highlight your patient-care experience, leadership skills, and long-term goals. Think of it as your chance to stand out beyond numbers.

3. Gain Clinical Experience and Mentorship

Hands-on healthcare experience is one of the strongest parts of any PA application. Shadowing a PA, working as a medical assistant, EMT, or scribe, and connecting with mentors in the field will strengthen both your skills and your recommendation letters.

FAQs: PA Schools That Don’t Require the GRE

#1. Can you get into PA school without the GRE?

Yes. Over 100 accredited programs across the U.S. waive the GRE. Admission is based on GPA, clinical experience, and other factors.

#2. Which PA schools in Florida don’t require the GRE?

Programs at the University of Florida, Miami-Dade College, Advent Health University, University of Tampa, and Gannon University (Ruskin campus) don’t require it.

#3. What about Texas PA schools?

Texas options are more limited, but the Army Medical Center of Excellence and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio waive the GRE.

#4. Is it harder to get accepted if a school doesn’t require the GRE?

Sometimes. Since GRE-free programs attract more applicants, they can be more competitive. That’s why strong academics and patient-care hours are essential.

Final Thoughts

Not every aspiring PA wants to take the GRE, and the good news is you don’t have to. With more than 100 programs nationwide dropping the requirement, there are plenty of opportunities to apply without test scores.

Focus instead on building a well-rounded application, strong GPA, meaningful clinical experience, and a powerful personal statement. Those factors carry the most weight in admissions.

At Go Elective, we help students stand out with pre-PA internships and global healthcare experiences in Kenya and Tanzania. These programs give you hands-on clinical exposure and cultural competence that admissions committees notice.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, PA Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Sep 19, 2025