PA-CAT Exam

Beginning in Spring 2020 some PA programs will start requiring or preferring that applicants take the newly-developed Physician Assistant College Admission Test (PA-CAT) instead of the GRE.

The PA-CAT has been developed by Exam Master with input from PA program administrators to help them determine applicants' academic preparation for PA school in the core prerequisite subjects. 

Additional information: PA-CAT Physician Assistant College Admissions Test

*As of February 2020 Central Michigan University and Pfeiffer University do require applicants to take the PA-CAT for admissions consideration in the upcoming application cycle.

PA-CAT Content:

The PA-CAT was developed to assess common basic science subjects and statistics consistent with what is typically required for admission by a majority of PA programs. Test items were developed and reviewed by both subject matter experts as well as PA educators.

Subjects:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• General Biology
• Biochemistry
• General and Organic Chemistry
• Microbiology
• Behavioral Sciences
• Genetics
• Statistics

Details:

• 240 multiple-choice test items
• 4.5-hour total exam window
• Electronically administered by Prometric
• Special Accommodations available

Updated 4/21/2021 HB