PA Schools Without GRE Requirements: Easier Admissions Paths for Future Physician Assistants

Your Path to Becoming a Physician Assistant—Without the Test Stress

If you’re pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant (PA) and feeling overwhelmed by standardized testing, here’s some good news: not all PA programs require the GRE. In fact, a growing number of schools are waiving this requirement altogether, focusing instead on holistic factors like healthcare experience, academic performance, and commitment to the profession.

This guide explores accredited PA schools that don’t require the GRE and provides expert tips on how to build a strong, test-free application. Whether you're a career-changer, non-traditional student, or recent grad, this route offers a more accessible pathway to one of the fastest-growing careers in healthcare.

> Explore Go-Elective Pre-PA and PA Internships Abroad

Why Some PA Schools Are Dropping the GRE

Historically, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) was seen as a necessary admissions filter. But in recent years, many programs have moved away from this requirement. Why?

Standardized test scores don’t always predict clinical success.
Removing the GRE reduces barriers for underrepresented applicants.
PA programs increasingly emphasize experience, cultural competence, and communication skills.

PA Schools That Don’t Require the GRE i

More than 100 PA programs across the U.S. now waive the GRE. Here are just a few examples:

PA Program	Location	Program Length	GRE Required?
Army Medical Center of Excellence	Fort Sam Houston, TX	24 months	No
California State University, Monterey Bay	Seaside, CA	27 months	No
Colorado Mesa University	Grand Junction, CO	27 months	No
Miami Dade College	Miami, FL	27 months	No
Northeastern State University	Tahlequah, OK	24 months	No
Oklahoma City University	Oklahoma City, OK	27 months	No
Oregon Health & Science University	Portland, OR	26 months	No
Rutgers University	New Brunswick, NJ	27 months	No

Want to apply to schools like these? Focus your efforts on building a compelling application rooted in patient care, academic readiness, and meaningful experiences—especially through internships.

Boost Your Application with a Global Pre-PA Internship

One of the most effective ways to strengthen your PA school application—without relying on the GRE—is to demonstrate direct patient care experience and cultural competence. That’s where Go Elective’s Pre-PA internships come in.

Our programs offer:

Guided hands-on shadowing with licensed medical professionals in East Africa.
Diverse patient care exposure, including pediatrics, emergency medicine, and surgery.
Immersion in global health systems, sharpening your ability to work across cultures.
Reflection-based learning, which helps you articulate personal growth in your personal statement and interviews.

Whether you're logging patient care hours or exploring a potential specialty, our internships are designed to help you stand out.

What PA Schools Without GRE Requirements Still Expect

Skipping the GRE doesn’t mean skipping the hard work. Competitive PA programs still require:

Strong Academic Foundation

GPA minimums (usually 3.0–3.2 cumulative and science)
Completion of core science prerequisites like biology, chemistry, anatomy, and microbiology
Some programs may waive organic chemistry requirements

Clinical and Patient Care Experience

Direct patient care hours (e.g., EMT, medical assistant, CNA, scribe)
Shadowing hours with PAs are highly recommended

Well-Rounded Extracurriculars

Leadership and service roles in healthcare or community settings
Experience in diverse or underserved communities is a major plus

Powerful Letters of Recommendation

From professors, healthcare supervisors, or PAs you’ve shadowed

A Thoughtful Personal Statement

Highlighting why you want to become a PA, what you’ve learned through patient care, and how your experiences have shaped your path

Frequently Asked Questions: PA Schools Without the GRE

#1. Do all top-ranked PA schools require the GRE?

No. Many highly respected programs—including those at Rutgers, OHSU, and Miami Dade—have waived the GRE to promote accessibility and equity.

#2. Will skipping the GRE hurt my chances of getting in?

Not if the rest of your application is strong. Programs that waive the GRE usually place greater weight on GPA, patient care hours, personal statements, and interviews.

#3. What if I’ve already taken the GRE?

If your score is strong, some non-GRE schools may still allow you to submit it voluntarily. It can be a helpful addition—but isn’t necessary.

#4. Should I still consider taking the GRE just in case?

If you’re applying broadly, including to GRE-required programs, then yes. Otherwise, focus your energy on what truly matters: clinical experience and a compelling narrative.

#5. Are there PA schools that don’t require organic chemistry?

Yes. Some programs prioritize general chemistry and allow substitutions or waivers for organic chemistry. Always check the prerequisites of each school individually.

#6. Do pre-PA internships really help my application?

Absolutely. Clinical internships—especially international ones—signal maturity, cultural competence, and a deep understanding of the PA role. Learn more about Go Elective’s internship experience.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need the GRE to Become a PA

The PA profession is built on competence, compassion, and communication. Not standardized test scores. By applying to schools that don’t require the GRE and investing in clinical experience, you can take a more accessible, personalized route to PA school.

At Go Elective, we’re here to help you do just that—with immersive pre-PA internships, global healthcare exposure, and guidance to help your application rise to the top.

Take the Next Step Toward PA School—Without the GRE

Apply now for a Pre-PA Internship with Go Elective and gain the experience that matters most. Your journey to becoming a physician assistant starts with real-world impact.