Current-cycle decision support
Turn confirmed information into a first practice
Why the physician assistant profession?
Practise explaining why the PA role fits your experiences and goals. Review whether you distinguish the profession clearly, use specific evidence, and connect your motivation to patient care; then record again with a sharper answer.
Quick facts
- Degree: Master of Science in Physician Associate Studies.
- Duration: 27 months.
- Location: Birmingham, Alabama.
- CASPA deadline: August 1 in the year before matriculation.
- GRE: required.
- Interview: faculty interview required.
- Accreditation: ARC-PA Accreditation-Continued.
Admission requirements
Applicants need a U.S. regionally accredited bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 cumulative, science and prerequisite GPAs, C-or-better prerequisites, GRE scores, three recommendations, CASPA and a $75 UAB supplemental. Clinical experience is preferred rather than required. Official admissions page
Important dates
- April 29: CASPA opens.
- August 1 in the year before matriculation: last GRE date and CASPA e-submission deadline at 11:59 p.m. ET.
- August 7: supplemental deadline at 11:59 p.m. ET.
- October 1: CASPA verification deadline at 11:59 p.m. ET.
- November: interviews.
- December: final decisions.
How selection works
UAB evaluates academics, GRE percentiles, clinical and PA exposure, statement, recommendations and supplemental responses. It also considers Alabama and UAB connection, military service, first-generation background, service and rural or unmet-healthcare commitment. Cumulative performance determines interview selection; numeric weights are not public. Official admissions page
Interview details
Confirmed
A faculty interview is required, and current admissions material places interviews in November.
Not published
UAB does not publish modality, format, duration, interviewer count or file access, assessment domains, scoring rubric or quantitative weight. Official admissions page
Who this program may suit
This program may suit applicants with strong science preparation, a credible understanding of PA practice and evidence of service, clinical exposure or commitment to Alabama, rural and underserved communities. Official program page
Practice and next step
Record an answer explaining why the physician associate profession fits your goals. Use one specific clinical or service example, distinguish the PA role and connect it to UAB's mission. Review one weakness and record again.
Frequently asked questions
When is CASPA due?
August 1 in the year before matriculation.
Is the GRE required?
Yes.
Is clinical experience required?
It is preferred, not listed as a minimum.
What is the interview format?
UAB confirms a faculty interview but does not publish the format.
Sources
Recommended preparation
Physician Assistant Interview Essentials
Build a credible PA interview foundation through four focused spoken responses: profession-specific motivation, interprofessional teamwork, fair clinical decision-making, and reflective use of feedback.
Page history
- Published