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
- Cycle: Current Cycle
- Degree: Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies
- Length: 28 months, full time
- Location: Riverdale, New York
- Start: recurring August matriculation
- Application: CASPA opens April 30 and closes April 15 of the following year; rolling review
- Experience: minimum 200 patient-care hours
- Assessment: Casper required; GRE and MCAT not required
- Interview: on campus, individual interviews plus a scored essay
- Accreditation: Accreditation-Probation
Official admissions requirements
Admission requirements
Applicants need 3.0 cumulative, science and prerequisite GPAs, 200 care hours, three references and Casper; GRE and MCAT are not required. Official program
Important dates
- April 30: recurring CASPA opening.
- April 15: recurring cycle close.
- August: recurring start.
- Entry year: not labelled.
How selection works
Cumulative scoring uses GPA, interview, optional shadowing, direct care, service and advanced-degree points. Official program
Interview details
Confirmed
The on-campus interview includes individual interviews and a scored essay, assessing communication, self-awareness, motivation and critical thinking.
Not published
Exact dates, duration, interviewer roles, file access and final weights are not public. Official program
Who this program may suit
Mount Saint Vincent may suit applicants seeking an in-person Riverdale program who can reassess probation before entry. Official program
Practice and next step
Record a first response explaining why the PA profession fits your goals. Review whether your example is specific and evidence-based. Record it again and compare.
Frequently asked questions
Care minimum?
200 hours.
Casper?
Required.
Accreditation?
ARC-PA Probation.
Sources
- Admissions requirements
- Program FAQ
- Current cohort dates
- Accreditation status
- Reviewed 2026-08-22.
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