Future PAs Start Here!
Thinking about what to do next after finishing undergrad? Or are you interested in PA programs in California? Check out these resources created by GAPPA below! Our team has worked hard to make and find helpful pages and create informative guides for pre-PAs. We hope you find them useful!
PRE-PA TIMELINE
The Pre-PA Timeline outlines a general step-by-step guide to help you prepare for PA school during college or during your gap year. GAPPA members should use it to stay organized, plan ahead, and ensure they are meeting important milestones throughout their pre-PA journey.
NEW MEMBER GAPPA GUIDE
The New Member GAPPA Guide introduces members to GAPPA’s resources, opportunities, and ways to get involved. GAPPA members should use it to navigate the organization, maximize available support, and make the most of their pre-PA journey.
THE POSTBACC GUIDE
We are excited to share a curated resource from GAPPA just for our members. If you're considering a postbaccalaureate program, our team has put together a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know from prerequisites, course selection (community college vs. university extension), to patient care hours, shadowing, and volunteering! Get a head start by taking a look!
CURRENT EVENTS
Current Events provides updates on topics impacting healthcare and the PA profession. GAPPA members can use it to stay informed, understand trends, and be prepared to discuss relevant issues in interviews and professional settings.
New PA Video - 2025
This is a video by Dr. Richardson, who provides an overview of the Physician Associate (PA) profession, including its history, PA program requirements, the general application process, and key terms to understand when exploring PA education. It also covers recent updates in the profession and highlights the differences between PAs, Nurse Practitioners (NPs), and Medical Doctors (MDs).
CALIFORNIA PA PROGRAMS LIST
Introducing GAPPA’s Comprehensive California PA Program List!
Our resource team has compiled everything you need to know when applying to PA schools in California—all in one easy-to-navigate Google Doc. You'll find program locations, first-time PANCE pass rates, program lengths, and more.
Explore the list and enjoy learning more about your future options!
TEST PREP RESOURCES
The Standardized Testing Resources provides materials and different types of test prep for exams like the GRE or PA-CAT. GAPPA members may use it to find study tools, understand test formats, and prepare effectively to stay competitive in the application process.
GPA CALCULATORS
There are a few GPA Calculators that help you track both your science and cumulative GPA. GAPPA members may use it to monitor academic progress, understand where they stand for PA program requirements, and plan how to stay competitive.
PA SCHOOL TRACKER
The PA School Tracker template is designed to help GAPPA members stay organized and on top of their applications. It allows members to track important details such as application deadlines, program requirements, interview dates, and status updates for each PA school they’re applying to, ensuring no important steps are missed throughout the process.
CASPA EXPERIENCES TRACKER
The CASPA Experiences Tracker template helps GAPPA members efficiently log and organize their clinical and non-clinical experiences for the CASPA (Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants) application. This tool allows users to track hours, descriptions, roles, and key skills gained from each experience, ensuring all information is ready and accurately presented when completing the CASPA application.
PA RESUME TEMPLATE
The PA Resume Template offers structured formats tailored for pre-PA students, highlighting key experiences like clinical hours, certifications, and leadership. GAPPA members should use it as a guide to present their experiences clearly and align with what PA programs expect.
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Get a head start and fill out your resume as you gain experience in the different categories!
EMAIL TEMPLATES
The Email Templates provide ready-to-use formats for professional communication, such as reaching out to mentors, clinics, etc. GAPPA members should use these templates to ensure their emails are clear, respectful, and professional while saving time and maintaining consistency.
BRAG SHEET TEMPLATE
The Brag Sheet Template helps you organize your achievements, experiences, and strengths in one place for applications or recommendation letters. GAPPA members should use it to clearly showcase their impact, making it easier for evaluators or mentors to highlight their strengths.
MASTER LIST
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
The Master Interview Questions compiles commonly asked PA interview questions to help you prepare effectively. GAPPA members should use it to practice responses, identify key themes, and build confident, well-structured answers
MASTER LIST
CONFERENCES AND WORKSHOPS
The Master List of Workshops and Conferences provides a curated collection of events relevant to pre-PA students. GAPPA members should use it to find opportunities for networking, learning, and professional development.
PA PROGRAM
INTERVIEW FORMAT
The PA Program Interview Formats provides an overview of common interview styles, including traditional interviews, multiple mini interviews (MMIs), group activities, and writing assessments. GAPPA members should use it to understand what to expect and prepare confidently for different interview settings.
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