Applying
Competitive Applicant Profile
Entrance into Physical Therapy School is a competitive process. While requirements vary from school to school, qualified applicants should have at least a 3.3 cumulative grade point average, as well as a 3.3 average in their science coursework. As always, it is a good idea to review each school’s profile to determine what the minimum requirements are for entry. In addition to grades, applicants must have at least 100 hours of shadowing experience under a licensed Physical Therapist. Test scores are sometimes required, depending on the school.
Required Examination
There is no content specific standardized test for applying to Physical Therapy school. However, you may find that some schools will require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). For more information on taking the GRE visit www.takethegre.com.
Process for Applying to Physical Therapy School
Most Physical Therapy schools require students to apply through a centralized application service, PTCAS (www.ptcas.org). Students submit all of their materials (including applications, letters of recommendation, essays, certification of shadowing hours and any test scores required) through the centralized service. Not all schools participate in this service, so students should check out this website early in their academic career.
Where do UMBC Students Attend Physical Therapy School?
Our students attend top programs across all across the country. Listed below is a sample of some of the schools UMBC students have recently attended:
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- University of Maryland, Eastern Shore
- Rutger’s University
- George Washington University
- University of Pittsburgh
- Howard University
- Virginia Commonwealth University
Additional Resources
For information on specific schools requirements, please visit the individual school website. For additional information regarding the field of Physical Therapy and becoming a Physical Therapist, please visit the following websites:
Students interested in Physical Therapy are also encouraged to join the Pre-Physical Therapy Society, which offers programs and workshops throughout the semester. The Pre-PT Society meets biweekly on Wednesdays. To become a member or to learn more about this club, email umbcppts@gmail.com.