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Applying to RVU’s Physician Assistant Program? Here’s What You Need to Know

By: Julia David, MBA, Programmatic Enrollment Specialist

Applying to the Rocky Vista University Physician Assistant (PA) program is a competitive process, and a strong, well-rounded application is essential. RVU uses the CASPA (Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants) for application submissions. Because RVU operates on a rolling admissions basis, it’s highly recommended to submit your application by late July. This allows time for verification, supplemental requirements, and maximizes your chances for early consideration.

Highlight Your Experience

One of the most critical components of your application is your direct patient care experience. Be sure to meet or exceed RVU’s minimum requirement of 1,000 hours of hands-on patient care. Positions like EMT, CNA, medical assistant, or scribe are excellent ways to build clinical skills and demonstrate your commitment to the field. It’s also beneficial to show progression or leadership in your healthcare roles over time; taking on more responsibility or moving into more advanced positions reflects your growth and commitment to the field. Shadowing a Physician Assistant, especially in primary care, is key as it shows you understand the PA’s role in a variety of settings and are genuinely interested in this career path. Volunteering in healthcare environments, particularly with rural or underserved populations, might not always count as direct patient care, but it still highlights your compassion, dedication, and desire to serve others.

Be Authentic

Beyond academics and experience, your application essays and letters of recommendation give you a chance to show your passion and personality. Use your essay to explain why you want to become a PA, highlight meaningful experiences from your healthcare journey, and reflect on what makes you a strong candidate. Be authentic and specific, as admissions teams read hundreds of essays and can quickly spot generic or overly polished responses. Letters of recommendation should come from people who know you well in academic or professional settings.

Practice, practice, practice

If you are invited to interview, take time to prepare by practicing common questions and thinking deeply about your experiences. Strong communication skills can make a big difference, sometimes just as much as your academic and clinical background.

In Summary:

  • Apply early: Submit through CASPA and aim for late July to give yourself ample time for verification and any additional steps RVU may require.
  • Gain quality healthcare experience: Jobs like EMT, CNA, medical assistant, or scribe are great for hands-on patient care. Showing growth or taking on more responsibility in these roles really helps, too. Don’t forget to shadow a PA—especially in primary care!
  • Volunteer with Purpose: Helping out in clinics or with underserved communities may not always be considered direct care, but it demonstrates heart, commitment, and a genuine passion for helping others.
  • Write an essay that’s real and personal: Share why you want to be a PA, highlight meaningful experiences, and be honest about what makes you a great fit. Admissions folks can spot generic essays a mile away.
  • Stand out during the interview: If you get invited, prep well! Practice common questions, reflect on your journey, and focus on clear, confident communication. It’s your chance to really shine beyond paper.

If you haven’t already, be sure to visit the RVU Master of Physician Assistant Studies program page to learn more about our curriculum, admissions requirements, and mission.