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Student Studying

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

By: Julia David, MBA, Programmatic Enrollment Specialist 05/28/2025
Updated: 06/05/2026 by Carrie Chanos, MA, PA-C, Assistant Professor PA Studies

Admission to the Rocky Vista University Physician Assistant (PA) Program is competitive, and applicants are encouraged to submit a strong, well-rounded application. RVU uses the CASPA (Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants) platform for all application submissions. Because the program operates on a rolling admissions basis, you should submit your application by late July to allow adequate time for CASPA verification and maximize your chance for early review and 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 healthcare-related experience. These hours must be completed within five years of application. 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 Physician Assistants in a variety of fields shows you understand the PA’s role and are genuinely interested in this career path. Volunteering, particularly with rural or underserved populations, 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 personal statement 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 interview questions and reflecting on 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 plenty of time for verification of your application
  • Gain quality healthcare experience: Jobs like EMT, CNA, medical assistant, or scribe are great for gaining experience. Showing growth or taking on more responsibility in these roles really helps, too. Don’t forget to shadow PAs in a variety of settings! 
  • Volunteer with Purpose: Volunteering shows heart, commitment, and a real 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.