GRE vs PA-CAT
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
The GRE is a standardized admissions examination for those applying to graduate programs. They offer both a general test and subject tests (chemistry, mathematics, physics, and psychology). Most students applying to PA programs take the general examination.
The GRE general examination has three sections - verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. Most PA programs require the examination be within five years of application.
Physician Assistant College Admissions Test (PA-CAT)
The PA-CAT, not to be confused with the PCAT for pharmacy programs admission, is an admissions examination covering nine science subject areas:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- General Biology
- Biochemistry
- General and Organic Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Behavioral Sciences
- Genetics
- Statistics
The examination is modeled after the MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) for admission to medical school.
Which one should you take?
The PA programs that are requiring standardized admissions tests, require the GRE more often than the PA-CAT. Several programs will accept PA-CAT or MCAT scores in place of GRE scores.
There are several PA programs that no longer require the GRE for admission.