PA Program Applications Show Growth, Persistence 

Each year, the applicant pool for PA programs across the country offers insight into the state of the profession’s future. The latest data from the 2024–2025 cycle reveals several important trends related to who is applying, how often they’re applying, and how PA programs are meeting the demand. 

Steady Growth in Applicants and Matriculants 

Applicant numbers continue to rise, increasing from 30,353 in the 2020–2021 cycle to 34,625 in the most recent cycle. This consistent growth underscores sustained interest in the PA profession. Matriculant numbers have also kept pace, increasing nearly 13% over the same period to reach 12,636—a strong indicator that programs are expanding their capacity to meet demand. 

Persistence Among Reapplicants 

While overall numbers are up, not every applicant is admitted on their first attempt. Still, the percentage of reapplicants has remained stable, hovering between 24% and 27% per cycle. This trend points to persistent, determined applicants who are willing to pursue admission even after initial setbacks. 

Shifts in Applicant Demographics and Behaviors 

The 2024–2025 cycle saw the highest number of military-affiliated applicants since 2020–2021, a noteworthy increase that reflects greater engagement from veterans and service members. Applicants are also casting a wider net, on average applying to 8.45 programs– an increase that may reflect growing competition or more strategic application behavior. 

In terms of academic background, degrees in Biology, Health Science, and Psychology continue to dominate. These three majors have held the top spots since 2019–2020 and now represent nearly half (47.5%) of the entire applicant pool. 

From 2020 to the most recent cycle, the number of underrepresented in medicine (URiM) applicants increased by approximately 35%, and the proportion of URiM applicants relative to the overall applicant pool rose by 4% (from 21.4%-25.5%).

More Programs Join CASPA 

As interest in the PA profession grows, so does the infrastructure to support it. The number of programs using the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) has increased from 268 in 2020–2021 to 301 in 2024-2025. Participation continues to grow, with nearly twenty new programs joining the current cycle. This expansion reflects both the growth of the profession and the continued adoption of streamlined application systems. 

Looking Ahead 

These trends highlight both challenges and opportunities for PA education. As programs adapt to meet increased demand and foster a more diverse, committed applicant pool, the data points to a strong and resilient pathway of future PAs ready to meet the healthcare needs of tomorrow. 

Want to learn more and draw your own conclusions? Access the full report.