pa school application letter of recommendation

Letters of Recommendation for PA School: Tips and Considerations for PA School Applicants

by alot | Mar 2, 2024 | Admissions Helpers , Applying to PA School , PA School

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Letters of recommendation for pa school.

If you are on the path to applying to PA school, you probably know that PA school letters of recommendation (also known as letters of reference or letters of evaluation) are a key part of the PA school application. PA schools want to see that people you have worked with in a professional or academic capacity can attest to your aptitude and abilities.    

Who Should I Get Letters of Recommendation from for PA School?

Different PA schools have different requirements for letters of recommendation. It’s important to check each school’s requirements. As a general rule, applicants should aim to get letters of recommendation from the following individuals:

• College and university professors
• Supervisors from direct patient care experiences
• PAs from direct patient care experiences
• PAs from shadowing experiences
• Other individuals who have supervised or mentored the applicant and can attest to their intellectual aptitude, commitment to service, and work ethic

Important Considerations for Different Types of PA School Letters of Recommendation

Professors : Many PA schools expect applicants to submit a letter of recommendation from a professor who can speak to the applicant’s academic strengths and their ability to handle the rigors of the graduate-level course load in PA school.

How to Choose the Right Professor for a PA School Letter of Recommendation?

• Science Professors are Preferred: The PA school curriculum is heavy in science coursework. That’s why letters of recommendation from professors who can attest to your abilities in the sciences are preferred. Some PA schools even require letters of recommendation from science professors.
• Non-Science Professors Can Complement Letters from Science Professors: If you have a close relationship with a non-science professor, you can also ask for a letter from them but their letter should not replace one from a science professor.
• Letters from Professors with Whom You Have Taken a Course Are Preferred: Many PA schools prefer (some require) a letter from a professor with whom you have taken a course. These individuals can comment on your academic potential more accurately than someone who has, for example, served as an advisor but never taught you.
• Letters from a Professor in Whose Course You Earned an A are Preferred: If you receive a B or a C in a class, it is more difficult for your professor to speak about your excellence in the academic setting. Even if the professor agrees to write you a very strong letter, the disconnect between their comments and the grade in the course may diminish the value of the letter.
• Seek Professors with Whom You Have Rapport: A letter from a professor who knows you well and attests to your unique abilities based on their personal knowledge of you will carry more weight than a generic letter written by a professor who did not have close interactions with you.

Supervisors from Direct Patient Care Experience Roles

• Many PA Schools Require Letters from your Direct Supervisor : Your direct supervisor from your main patient care experience as a pre-PA student should write a letter discussing your strengths and abilities in that clinical role.
• People Who Count as Direct Supervisors: This supervisor can be a physician, PA, or nurse. Many schools will also accept letters of reference from supervisors who are not clinicians. For example, if your direct supervisor is the practice manager at a clinic, you may ask them for a letter of recommendation.

Physician Assistant: A letter from a PA who knows you well adds immense value to the PA school application. Who better than a professional in the field you aspire to join to provide insights into your potential for success in that field?

While it is always advisable to shadow or work with a PA before applying, if this is not feasible, a physician or nurse practitioner who you shadow could also write you a letter of recommendation for PA school. That being said, letters from PAs carry more weight.

Others: PA school applicants who have been involved in other meaningful activities can ask for a letter from a supervisor in that role. Meaningful activities could include volunteer or community service projects, teaching activities (especially if they were on a volunteer basis), or research.

Depending on the circumstances, others may also serve as letter writers. For example, a student-athlete may opt to get a letter from a coach who can attest to the student’s character and sense of discipline.

Remember to Check Each PA School’s Requirements for Letters of Recommendation : Note that some schools may have additional requirements for letters of recommendation. Make sure to check the requirements of each school you plan to apply to.

Who You Should NOT Get Letters of Recommendation from for PA School

• Family members or family friends (even if they are healthcare providers!)
• Healthcare providers who only know you as a patient
• Teachers from high school
• Employers in jobs that do not relate to your academic, clinical, scholarly, or service-oriented interests. For example, a letter from the manager at a restaurant where you worked does not typically add value to a PA school application.

How Many Letters of Recommendation Should I Get for PA School?

For your CASPA application to be complete, you need to submit at least three letters of recommendation. CASPA allows applicants to submit a maximum of five letters of recommendation.

Should I Submit More Than the Minimum Three Letters of Recommendation Required by PA Schools?

PA school applicants may provide more than 3 letters of recommendation if they believe each letter offers a distinct perspective. For instance, an applicant might include a letter from a PA they shadowed, a supervising physician at a primary care clinic where they worked at, a physiology professor, and an anthropology professor. Applicants with extensive experience in healthcare may also opt to get letters from two supervisors in different healthcare settings.

How do I Send Letters of Recommendation to PA Schools?

Letters of recommendation for PA schools are submitted through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). Within the supporting information section of the CASPA application, applicants will find a tab titled ‘Evaluations’.

Under this tab, applicants can create an evaluation request by entering the name and email address of each individual they wish to get a recommendation letter from. The evaluator will be notified by email that you are listing them as an evaluator. The evaluator will be given a link through which they can submit their reference letter to CASPA.

Notify Your Letter Writers Before Listing them on CASPA!

It goes without saying that before you enter someone as an evaluator in CASPA, it is best to ask if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for you and get the OK from them.

Can I Submit Additional Letters to CASPA After Submitting my CASPA Application?

You can have additional letters submitted to CASPA (up to a maximum of five) after you have submitted your CAPSA application. However, it’s best to have your references entered into CASPA and all letters of recommendation sent before you submit your CASPA application.

Some applicants opt to send in additional letters weeks or months after submitting their CASPA application from a person they started to work with or took a class with after their CASPA application was submitted.

Example Student:

For example, John takes on a role as a medical assistant in a primary care clinic in June after submitting his CASPA application. John impresses the supervising PA with whom he works and the PA offers to write John a letter in November. John is still waiting to hear back from multiple PA schools. John can ask his supervising PA to write a letter of recommendation for him and submit the letter to CASPA.

Different PA schools have different policies about how they deal with letters received after the CASPA application was submitted. Some schools may consider these letters while others will not. Certain PA schools may also prefer to have new letters submitted to them directly if the applicant has already submitted the CASPA application.

How to Approach People to Ask for Letters of Recommendation for PA School

Give Your Letter Writers Ample Time: The CASPA application opens at the end of April each year. Applicants should ideally submit their applications with their references shortly after the application opens (early to mid-May). You should begin to approach the people who will write your letters well in advance (December of the prior year or January of the application year are an ideal time to start these conversations).

Approach Your Letter Writer in Person if Possible: If you make the effort to show up in person and ask for letters of recommendation, you may leave a stronger impression. If it has been some time since you worked with the individual or since you took a class with them, showing up in person will also be a great way to refresh their memory.

Highlight What You Have Enjoyed and Learned: When you approach your letter writers, tell them what you enjoyed about their course or the experience working with them. Highlight what you learned from the experience or course and how it helped you grow.

Be Direct About What You Need: When you approach a letter writer, tell them that you plan to apply to PA school and ask if they would be willing to support your PA school application with a strong letter of recommendation. Make sure to indicate when you need the letter completed.

Offer to Meet to Answer Any Questions About Your Candidacy: Let your letter writers know that you would be happy to meet with them to answer any questions about your motivations for entering the PA profession, your background, or your achievements.

How do I Ensure my Letters of Recommendation for PA School are Strong?

Strong letters of recommendation are not written after you ask a reference to write it for you. They are written the day you begin working with or taking a class with a potential reference!

The best way to ensure that your PA school letters of recommendation are strong is to shine in your courses, direct patient care experiences, and shadowing experiences for PA school. In addition, it is advisable to establish rapport early on with the references who will write your letters for PA school. This way, your references will be more invested in your success and able to write more personal letters of recommendation for your PA school application.

How to Impress Professors for Strong Letters of Recommendation:

• Get an A in the class!
• Attend class regularly and engage in class discussions.
• Go to office hours and ask intelligent questions. This is a great way to show your professors that you are active and engaged in learning.
• Consider serving as a teaching assistant for the professor or assisting them with a research project. These are great ways to showcase your strengths and ensure that you receive a strong letter when you are applying to PA school.

Tips for Getting Good PA School Letters of Recommendation from Clinical Supervisors:

• Go above and beyond to make sure patients are receiving the best care possible.
• Always get to work on time and stay until all your responsibilities are complete!
• Showcase your skills as a team player and your concern for patients by offering to help other teammates and sticking around even after your shift has ended.
• Use your clinical experiences as a learning opportunity! If you encounter a condition or treatment that you are not familiar with, look it up online, read about it, and ask intelligent questions from your supervising PA or physician. This is a great way to increase your knowledge and showcase your curiosity.

What Should be Included in PA School Letters of Recommendation

Sometimes, the people writing your letters of recommendation for PA school may ask what they should include in your letter. For each type of letter writer, the information they provide will vary. Below are some qualities that each type of letter PA school letter or recommendation should include.

Keep in mind, however, that if your letter writer does not ask you what they should include, DO NOT TELL THEM WHAT TO INCLUDE. Many letter writers have experience writing references for applicants to PA school.

Letters of Recommendation from Professors: Letters from professors should highlight some of the following qualities:

• Intellectual aptitude and academic ability
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle rigorous science courses
• Curiosity and desire for learning
• Potential for success in a graduate-level program like PA school with a heavy science course load
• Ability to work with other peers in a course, particularly in group projects
• Written and oral communication skills

Letters of Recommendation from Clinical Supervisors: Letters from clinical supervisors should highlight qualities such as:

• Compassion and concern for the well-being of patients
• Patient communication skills
• Ability to work within a healthcare team
• Sense of professionalism and responsibility
• Ability to take initiative and demonstrate leadership
• Qualities that demonstrate your potential for success as a future healthcare professional

Letters of Recommendation from PAs: Letters from PAs should include qualities such as:

• Potential to succeed as a PA student and future PA based on your qualities and characteristics
• Understanding of the PA profession
• Curiosity for medical science and desire for life-long learning in medicine
• Interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with patient

It’s important to remember that every applicant is different and each will have a unique experience with professors, clinical supervisors, and PAs. As a result, your letter writers may have distinct perspectives on your abilities and aptitudes. They do not need to comment on all of the above-mentioned qualities. Some may highlight other qualities beyond what is listed here.

Key Takeaways about PA School Letters of Recommendation

• PA schools place great emphasis on letters of recommendation. Applicants should seek recommendations from various sources, such as professors, clinical supervisors, and PAs, ensuring a comprehensive reflection of your academic aptitude and potential for success as a clinician.
• When considering letters of recommendation from professors, prioritize those in science disciplines and with whom you’ve taken courses as opposed to those who only served as advisors.
• Build rapport with people you plan to ask for letters of recommendation from early on. This way they can write you more personalized and insightful letters.
• Approach potential letter writers thoughtfully, highlighting what you’ve enjoyed and learned from your interactions with them. Be direct about your PA school aspirations and offer to meet to discuss your motivations, background, and achievements.
• Excel in courses and direct patient care experiences to naturally impress professors and clinical supervisors. This way, when it’s time to write you letters of recommendation, they will have a lot to say about you.

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PA Letters of Recommendation

PA programs want to know that the students they admit have the knowledge and passion to succeed. So it’s no surprise that most PA letters of recommendation are a key part of the application process. Also known as letters of reference or evaluation, recommendation letters showcase your academic and professional qualifications while giving admissions committees a sense of your personality and passion. 

Most PA schools require students to submit their applications through CASPA, or the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants. For example, Stanford’s renowned PA program asks prospective physician assistants to submit at least three and no more than 5 letters as part of their CASPA application. While applicants have some flexibility when choosing letter writers, Stanford advises students to ask a physician assistant, a doctor, and a professor or other person who knows them in an academic setting. 

However, applicants can also ask employers and professional mentors for recommendations. Letters should reveal information about the applicant’s potential and how their talents will complement the program’s mission. Keep reading for tips on securing PA letters of recommendation that will give you the best chance at getting into your dream school.

Table of Contents

How to Ask for Recommendation Letters

The first step in securing your PA letters of recommendation is asking someone to write them for you. While it can be stressful to ask someone for this kind of favor, the truth is that most people are happy to help out, provided that you give them sufficient notice. To that end, it’s important to ask for recommendation letters well in advance of your application deadlines. 

When requesting recommendations, consider making an appointment with the person in question. This policy works best for physicians, PAs, and other medical professionals or professors whom you don’t know as well. If you have a closer relationship with the recommender, you can feel free to ask them in a more casual context. 

Who to Ask for Recommendation Letters

It’s always best to check with the PA program in question to see if they have specific requirements regarding letters of recommendation. However, in general, you should secure at least one letter from a writer who works in the medical field. Doctors, nurse practitioners, and other physician assistants who can speak to your skills and personal attributes are usually well positioned to write letters on your behalf. 

Additionally, you should seek out a letter writer who knows you in an academic capacity. A professor or school counselor will be able to describe your dedication and aptitude for learning in a way that appeals to ad coms. Clinical supervisors are also a great option. The goal is to showcase a broad range of skills, including leadership, communication, and commitment to the PA field. 

Related Article: PA School Requirements

What should a pa letter of recommendation include.

Ad coms tend to be impressed by letters that showcase the personal knowledge of the candidate while revealing a belief in their ability to succeed. With that in mind, aspiring PAs should make sure letter writers have enough information to craft a compelling argument on their behalf. Along with your transcripts, you should send the recommender a recent resume and copy of any relevant test scores. You may also want to include your personal statement, so the writer gets a sense of your goals and passions. 

There’s no one right way to craft a PA letter of recommendation. However, most successful recommendation letters feature a few key components. Here are some points that your recommender should strive to hit in a letter for a PA program:

• How long they’ve known you and in what context
• What academic qualifications make you eligible for PA school
• How much you know about medicine and the PA field 
• Why you’re a great candidate for PA school and their eagerness to recommend you
• What personal traits and attributes will help you succeed in the program

Feel free to discuss these components with your recommender. In some cases, they may be new to writing recommendations and looking for advice

Tips for Getting the Best PA Letters of Recommendation

Just because you know what a PA letter of recommendation should entail doesn’t mean the process will be smooth sailing. If you want to ensure you will wow the admissions committees with well-written letters, it’s important to take certain steps during the application process. Here are some tips for securing the best PA recommendations:

Check in Early

It’s not enough to provide your recommenders with a due date for letters. After all, doctors and professors are busy people, and savvy applicants check in regularly to ensure nothing slips through the cracks. For best results, give them a deadline that’s a few weeks ahead of the day you actually need the letters. It’s also a good idea to check in a week before the deadline. Remind them politely of the upcoming deadline and ask if they need any additional information to complete your recommendation. 

Expect Someone to Back Out

Even the best laid plans sometimes fall through. With that in mind, aspiring PAs should ask for one more reference than their programs require. For example, if the schools you’re targeting ask for a minimum of three letters, you should ask four people to write recommendations. (Many programs allow students to submit up to five letters, so this additional recommendation won’t go to waste.) If you anticipate that someone might fail to submit their letter on time, you won’t have to scramble to complete your application at the last minute. 

Say Thank You

Not only does writing recommendation letters require people to take time out of their busy schedules, but it can also be stressful. After all, your future success depends in part on how effectively they convey your strengths and abilities. With that in mind, it’s only logical to thank letter writers for the time and effort. Once you’ve received your letters, take the time to send a quick email or card expressing your thanks. You can also include a small gift, provided that the cost is minimal. As a bonus, thanking your recommenders helps ensure that they’re willing to help you out again in the future. You never know when you’ll need a recommendation for a job or other opportunity!

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CASPA Letter of Recommendation Samples

CASPA recommendation letter samples can be an excellent resource for applicants. Letters of recommendation are one of the most important PA school requirements . If you've been asked to write your own letter of recommendation , the samples can help inspire you. On the other hand, if you will be requesting letters of recommendation, then the samples give you an idea of what information you need to give your chosen writers and what to expect from your letter. In this blog, in addition to sharing some outstanding CASPA recommendation letter samples with you, we will give you some tips for securing the right referees and ensuring that your letter of recommendation is as compelling as possible.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 6 min read

What exactly are caspa letters of recommendation.

If you're hoping to become a Physician Assistant (PA), you will most likely need to use the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA). Your CASPA letters of recommendation are just as important as your  PA personal statement  and other application components that will be submitted on the platform because they provide program directors with a lot of valuable information about you. As suggested by the name, CASPA letters of recommendation are essentially letters recommending that your application to a PA program be accepted. These letters should speak to your abilities, attitude, and accomplishments in an academic setting or the workplace. CASPA requires at least three letters, but it allows applicants to submit up to five different references. The letters are collected directly and digitally through the CASPA letter of recommendation program. 

Your CASPA letter of recommendation should be written by someone who knows you well enough to speak about your skills and abilities and what you can contribute to a PA program. They should have worked or taught you long enough to write a detailed letter with concrete examples. There are three primary types of recommendation letters that you can get: 

Academic references typically come from a teacher or advisor. This type of recommendation letter is ideal for current students or recent graduates. It usually discusses your intellectual ability and the contributions you can make in a learning environment. 

Professional

These are the reference letters usually written by supervisors, colleagues, or clients. Essentially, they should be written by a professional who is well-acquainted with a candidate's skills and accomplishments in a work setting. These letters typically include a description of the position held by the candidate, their key responsibilities, their abilities, qualifications, and contributions to the organization during their time there. Professional references are excellent for both traditional and  non-traditional applicants  because they are a great way for program directors to find out how other professionals view the candidate. 

Personal recommendation letters, also known as personal or character references, are letters written by a friend, mentor, neighbor, family member, or anyone who knows the candidate well enough and who can attest to the traits that would make them a good addition to the PA program that they are applying to. These letters should explain how the referee knows the applicant and discuss the qualities and attributes that would make them a good physician's assistant. 

Some schools may have specific instructions for the recommendation letters, so it is important to verify the school guidelines and follow any provided instructions. It is your responsibility to advise your chosen writers of any formatting guidelines or instructions. Additionally, you should ensure that the letter is grammatically correct, easy to read and follow, and communicates the necessary information clearly and concisely.  

Unless otherwise stated, you can follow these formatting guidelines: 

Your CASPA letters of recommendation should highlight your positive attributes, skills, and accomplishments. A strong letter will be clear and provide concrete examples to back up any claims made about you. People tend to remember narratives, so it is best to show instead of telling. Your chosen writers can do so by sharing brief anecdotes and specific examples of projects or meaningful interactions.  "}]'>

To make this process easier on your chosen writers and to ensure that they include all the necessary information for a strong letter of recommendation, we recommend providing them with supporting materials and guidelines for the letter. Remind them that your letter should mention your eligibility for PA school, how they know you and for how long, their willingness to recommend you for PA school, and reasons for finding that you are a suitable candidate.

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Bonus tips for your CASPA letter of recommendation

Secure your letters early.

You should secure your letters of recommendation as early as possible. We recommend asking for one at least four to six weeks before you plan on submitting your application. Depending on the reference type, you may even be able to ask for it earlier and then simply remind your chosen writer when you are about six weeks away from your application date. This is enough time for them to confirm their willingness to endorse your application, get any additional information from you, and write and edit the letter.

Additionally, applying to a physician's assistant program involves many moving parts. Between having to write your personal statement, secure other application components, prepare for the PA school interview , and daily life, you will be busy enough. It is, therefore, best to request your letters of recommendation well in advance so that you have time to focus on preparing your other application requirements. 

Give your recommenders additional information 

CASPA letters of recommendation are written and finalized by your recommenders. Still, it is your responsibility to ensure they have everything they need to write a compelling letter. It would be best if you also tried to set the tone for what you want to be communicated in the letter and give them supporting documents to help them understand your profile better and write a stronger letter. For example, you can provide them with a copy of your updated resume, school transcripts, or even a copy of your personal statement.

Working on your personal statement too? Check out the examples and tips in this video:

It’s important that your writers have all the information they need to write and submit your letter of recommendation on time. When you add their name and email address to your CASPA profile, they will receive an email with some instructions, but we recommend that you walk them through the process as well. So, in addition to your resume, transcript, and personal statement, we suggest sending a document that includes all the details that they need to submit the document. Include the submission deadline, the format that the letter needs to be in, the size of the file, etc.

Follow up with your recommenders

We highly recommend following up with your recommenders a few weeks before the reference submission deadline. You can send them a short and polite email to remind them of the deadline and ask if they require any additional information. This is an excellent way to check in and find out if your references have already been submitted and make sure they will be submitted on time.

We also recommend that you thank your chosen writers when they confirm that the letter has been submitted. It does not need to be long or elaborate. It can be a simple email or a handwritten card for a more personal touch. The aim is to let the referees know that you appreciate their support and the time they took to endorse your candidacy. 

CASPA stands for Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants, it is a system that allows applicants to send applications to multiple PA programs simultaneously. 

CASPA requires at least three letters but allows students to submit up to five of them. 

Your letters of recommendation should be written by a professional who knows you well enough to discuss your skills and abilities by giving specific examples. Ideally, you should have at least one letter from a PA or someone who has seen you interact with patients.

Recommendation letters are very important. They tell the admissions board what other professionals think about you, and the opinion of a credible professional can go a very long way in swaying the admissions board.

Your letters of recommendation need to be submitted electronically by your chosen writers. You will be asked to put their name and email address on CASPA, and they will receive an email with a link asking them to register on the site, where they will be able to provide their recommendation. 

Not necessarily. We recommend having one academic reference, and at least two professional ones. Ideally, your professional letters should be written by a PA or a different medical professional. 

Your letter of recommendation should be about one page long and have four to six paragraphs. This is the ideal length to provide substantial information without losing your audience. 

Competition to enroll in PA programs can be quite competitive, so you need a compelling application if you want to get an offer of admission. 

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Home Letter of Recommendation PA School

PA School Letter of Recommendation Template

Create a PA School Letter of Recommendation to showcase your clinical experiences and personal qualities that align with the PA program’s values and goals.

Updated May 31, 2024 Written by Raina Chou | Reviewed by Brooke Davis

A PA (Physician Assistant) School Letter of Recommendation is a pivotal document of a physician assistant school application. It offers an admissions committee to learn valuable insights into an applicant’s qualifications and evaluate their readiness for PA school.

Typically, these letters are written by academic professors, PAs, or supervisors from medical settings who can provide an in-depth view of the applicant’s abilities, character, and experiences in the healthcare field.

Who to Request

How to write, pa school letter of recommendation: examples.

• PA School Letter of Recommendation Sample

Frequently Asked Questions

Aim to secure 3 to 5 PA school letters of recommendation in total. The letters should come from a mix of academic instructors, physician assistants, and other medical providers or supervisors.

Make sure your recommendation letter writers are well-acquainted with your strengths and can provide a thorough and enthusiastic endorsement of your qualifications. PA programs value genuine and detailed recommendations over those from high-status individuals who don’t know the applicant well.

Here’s a breakdown of the ideal sources for your recommendation letters:

• Science Instructors : Ideally, 1 or 2 of your letters should come from professors who have taught you in a science course such as biology, chemistry, or anatomy. These instructors can attest to your academic abilities and readiness for the rigorous coursework in PA school.
• Physician Assistants : At least 1 letter should come from a PA who has supervised or worked closely with you. This recommender can speak to your understanding of the PA role, patient interactions, and clinical skills.
• Other Medical Providers or Supervisors : You may also include 1 or 2 letters from other healthcare providers (e.g., a physician, nurse practitioner) or supervisors from a medical setting. These letters should highlight your professional behavior, reliability, and performance in a healthcare environment.

Specific Requirements on Recommenders

Some PA programs require letters from specific roles such as an academic instructor, clinical supervisor, or PA. Ensure you meet these criteria to avoid any last-minute issues.

How to Request

Follow these steps to ensure you get solid and supportive letters:

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

Before you reach out to potential recommenders, gather the necessary documents to provide them with a complete picture of your candidacy:

• Updated Resume : Include your educational background, work experience, volunteer activities, and relevant achievements.
• List of PA Schools : Provide a list of the schools you are applying to and their respective deadlines.
• Personal Statement Draft : Share a draft of your personal statement to help them understand your motivations and aspirations.

Step 2: Meet in Person

An in-person or virtual meeting allows you to discuss your request in detail and address any questions they might have.

During your meeting, clearly explain

• the purpose of the letter (how you are applying to PA school and why their letter will be valuable), and
• the submission process . Inform them about how to submit the letter through CASPA or other relevant platforms. Make sure they understand the deadlines and any specific requirements.

Example Email: Initial Request

Subject: Request for Letter of Recommendation for PA School Application

Dear [Recommender’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation for my application to physician assistant (PA) schools. I have greatly valued your guidance and mentorship during [mention context, e.g., “my time in your Biology class” or “our time working together at the clinic”], and I believe your insights would be invaluable to my application.

Would you be available to meet in person to discuss this further? I would love to share more details about my application and provide any helpful materials, such as my resume, personal statement, and list of schools I am applying to.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Step 3: Follow Up

After your meeting, send a follow-up email to the letter writer to reiterate key points and provide any additional information they might need, including

• submission instructions , and
• deadlines . Remind them of the deadline, ideally setting it a week before your earliest application deadline to ensure timely submission.

Example Email: Follow-Up After Meeting

Subject: Thank You for Your Support on My Application

Thank you so much for meeting with me and agreeing to write a letter of recommendation for my PA school application. I truly appreciate your support and the time you are taking to assist me.

As promised, I have attached my updated resume, a draft of my personal statement, and a list of the PA schools I am applying to. I hope these documents will provide you with helpful context and information as you write the letter.

To submit the letter, you will receive an email from the CASPA system with instructions on how to upload your recommendation. The deadline for submission is [specific date]. If possible, I would appreciate it if you could submit the letter by [a week before the deadline] to ensure everything is in order.

Please let me know if you need any additional information or have any questions.

Thank you again for your invaluable support.

Step 4: Send Reminders

Check periodically to ensure that your letters are submitted. If the deadline is approaching and the letter has not been submitted, send a polite reminder to your recommenders.

Example Email: Friendly Reminder

Subject: Friendly Reminder: Letter of Recommendation Deadline Approaching

I hope this message finds you well.

This is a friendly reminder that the deadline for submitting my letter of recommendation for PA school is one week away, on [specific date]. I wanted to check in to see if you need any further information or assistance from me.

I appreciate all your help and the time you are taking to support my application. Your recommendation means a lot to me and will significantly enhance my application.

Thank you once again for your support.

Step 5: Express Gratitude

After the letter is submitted, send a thank-you note to express your appreciation and update them on the results of your application.

When Should I Make the Request?

Aim to ask at least three months before your application deadline. This gives your recommenders ample time to write a thoughtful and detailed letter. Early requests also allow you to provide any additional information to your recommenders and request backups when necessary. Consider setting your own deadline for them to ensure all letters are submitted on time.

A well-crafted letter of recommendation should:

• Explain your relationship with the applicant and your qualifications;
• Highlight the applicant’s relevant skills and qualities with specific examples;
• Provide a balanced view of their academic, clinical, and personal strengths; and
• Conclude with a strong endorsement of their application.

Step 1: Introduction

Begin by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with the applicant. Mention how long you have known them and in what capacity. This sets the context for the admissions committee.

Step 2: Body Paragraphs

In the body of the letter, focus on specific qualities and provide concrete examples to highlight your distinct fit for PA schools. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence mentioning one of the applicant’s strengths, followed by an example that demonstrates this quality.

Admissions committees are not just looking for academic excellence and clinical skills in PA school applicants; they are seeking individuals with strong character . Highlighting personal stories that demonstrate the applicant’s integrity, resilience, and compassion can significantly impact their application.

Some key qualities and characteristics to highlight include:

• Intellectual Aptitude : “Jane has consistently demonstrated exceptional intellectual aptitude. For instance, in my Advanced Biology course, she not only excelled academically, achieving the highest grade in the class, but also led study groups that helped her peers understand complex concepts.”
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills : “One of John’s most remarkable qualities is his critical thinking ability. During a challenging research project on genetic mutations, he identified a flaw in our initial hypothesis and proposed an innovative solution that significantly advanced our study.”
• Curiosity and Desire for Learning : “Mary’s curiosity and desire for learning are truly inspiring. She frequently attended office hours to discuss topics beyond the curriculum and even initiated an independent research project on microbial resistance.”
• Compassion : “Anna’s compassion for patients is evident in her daily interactions. For example, she once stayed late to comfort a patient who was anxious about an upcoming procedure, demonstrating her dedication to patient care.”
• Teamwork : “Brian excels in a team setting. In our clinic, he often steps in to help colleagues during busy shifts, and his positive attitude and willingness to collaborate make him a valued team member.”
• Professionalism and Responsibility : “Kevin’s professionalism is beyond reproach. He handled a high-pressure situation in the ER with calm and efficiency, ensuring that all protocols were followed meticulously while providing excellent patient care.”
• Initiative and Leadership : “Rachel has shown remarkable initiative and leadership. She organized a community health fair, coordinating volunteers and resources to provide free health screenings to underserved populations.”
• Adaptability : “Alex demonstrated impressive adaptability when our clinic underwent a major transition to a new electronic medical record system. He quickly learned the new system and assisted others in the transition, ensuring minimal disruption to patient care.”
• Empathy : “Emily consistently shows deep empathy in her interactions with patients. She takes the time to listen to their concerns and responds thoughtfully, which greatly enhances the patient experience.”
• Good Communication Skills : “Oliver’s communication skills are outstanding. He effectively communicates with both patients and colleagues, ensuring that everyone is well-informed and comfortable with their care plans.”
• Understanding of the PA Profession : “Emily has a deep understanding of the PA role. While shadowing me, she asked insightful questions about patient care and the PA profession, demonstrating her genuine interest and readiness for this career.”
• Interpersonal Skills : “Mark’s interpersonal skills are outstanding. He builds rapport with patients quickly, as evidenced by his ability to calm a particularly anxious patient before a minor surgery, which significantly improved the patient’s experience.”
• Motivation and Determination : “Jake’s motivation and determination are evident in his pursuit of continuous improvement. He often stays late to review cases and learn from experienced practitioners.”
• Altruism : “Max’s altruism is demonstrated through his extensive volunteer work in underserved communities. He regularly organizes free health clinics and dedicates his time to ensuring everyone has access to care.”
• Trustworthiness : “Isabella is exceptionally trustworthy. She handles confidential patient information with the utmost discretion and always adheres to ethical guidelines.”
• Awareness and Responsiveness to Criticism : “Rachel shows remarkable awareness and responsiveness to criticism. She actively seeks feedback and implements suggestions to improve her clinical practice.”

In addition, ensure the examples and references in the letter are connected to the work and experiences the applicant has highlighted in their application. This makes the application feel cohesive and demonstrates the authenticity of the candidate’s experiences.

Step 3: Closing

Summarize your recommendation by reiterating your support for the applicant . Highlight why you believe they will succeed in PA school and as a future PA. Invite admissions committees to contact you for further inquiries or additional information.

Step 4: Submission

Once the letter is written, ensure it is submitted according to the CASPA application guidelines . The process involves several steps:

• Evaluation Request : The applicant will enter the recommender’s name and email address in the CASPA application system. The recommender will then receive an email with a link to the Liaison Letters portal.
• Completing the Evaluation : The recommender will review the request and can accept, complete, or deny it. They will be required to complete assessments such as writing essays, filling out Likert scales, and uploading the letter of recommendation.
• Notification : Once the evaluation is complete, both the applicant and the recommender will receive an email notification. The applicant can check the status of the evaluation in the Check Status tab of their CASPA application.
• Requirements : The applicant must request at least 2 and can request up to 5 evaluations. If more evaluations are needed, the applicant must send those directly to the programs.
• Waiver Decision : The applicant must decide whether to waive their right to view the evaluation under FERPA . This decision cannot be changed once made and will be visible to both the recommender and the programs. Most applicants choose to waive the right to demonstrate integrity.

Example #1: Clinical Supervisor Recommending a Certified Nursing Assistant

Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,

It is my pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Jane Doe, who has worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) under my supervision at XYZ Clinic for the past two years. During this time, Jane has consistently demonstrated a remarkable combination of professionalism, compassion, and dedication, making her an outstanding candidate for your Physician Assistant program.

Jane’s compassion for patients is truly commendable. I recall a specific incident where a terminally ill patient was feeling particularly anxious and distressed one evening. Jane stayed well past her shift, sitting with the patient, holding their hand, and providing comforting words. Her presence significantly calmed the patient, who later expressed deep gratitude for Jane’s kindness and support.

Jane’s professionalism and maturity are evident in her daily interactions with both patients and colleagues. She consistently handles high-pressure situations with calm and poise. For instance, during a particularly hectic shift when our ER was overwhelmed with patients, Jane efficiently managed multiple tasks, ensured patient comfort, and assisted the medical staff without missing a beat. Her ability to maintain composure and provide excellent care under stress speaks volumes about her maturity and reliability.

In addition to her clinical skills, Jane possesses strong communication abilities. She effectively communicates with patients, making sure they understand their care plans and feel comfortable asking questions. An example of this is when Jane took the time to explain post-discharge care instructions to an elderly patient who was particularly anxious about managing their medication regimen at home. Her clear and compassionate explanation helped the patient feel more confident and at ease.

In conclusion, Jane Doe possesses the qualities and skills that make her an excellent candidate for your PA program. Her compassion, professionalism, and communication abilities will undoubtedly contribute to her success as a Physician Assistant. I wholeheartedly endorse her application and believe she will be a valuable asset to your program.

Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Anna Owen Clinical Supervisor XYZ Clinic

Example #2: Physician Assistant Recommending a Medical Assistant

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for John Smith, who has worked as a Medical Assistant at ABC Hospital for the past three years. During his time with us, John has consistently demonstrated outstanding clinical skills, professionalism, and a deep commitment to patient care, making him an ideal candidate for your Physician Assistant program.

John’s dependability and trustworthiness are second to none. On numerous occasions, he has been entrusted with significant responsibilities due to his reliability. For instance, when our clinic faced staff shortages during the peak flu season, John took on additional shifts without hesitation. His punctuality, preparedness, and willingness to go the extra mile ensured that our operations continued smoothly and that patient care was never compromised.

John’s adaptability has been tested and proven repeatedly. A particularly notable example occurred during the implementation of a new electronic health record system. John quickly adapted to the new system, mastering its intricacies within a short period. He then took the initiative to train other staff members, ensuring a smooth transition for the entire clinic. His ability to remain resilient and supportive during this challenging time was invaluable.

In addition, John’s teamwork and leadership abilities are exceptional. He frequently takes the lead in improving clinic operations. Last year, he spearheaded a project to streamline our patient intake process, reducing wait times by 20%. He identified bottlenecks, proposed solutions, and implemented changes that had a lasting positive impact on our clinic’s efficiency. His leadership in this project demonstrated his proactive approach and commitment to enhancing patient care.

In summary, John Smith embodies the qualities and skills that make him an exceptional candidate for your PA program. His dependability, adaptability, and leadership abilities will serve him well in his future career as a Physician Assistant. I fully support his application and believe he will be an invaluable asset to your program.

Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Emily Johnson PA-C ABC Hospital

PA School Letter of Recommendation Sample

Copy the free sample or download a customizable PA School Letter of Recommendation template below.

___________________ [Recommender’s name] ___________________ [Recommender’s institution] ______________________________________ [Recommender’s address] ___________________ [Recommender’s phone or email]

___________________ [Date]

___________________ [Recipient’s name] ___________________ [Recipient’s institution] ______________________________________ [Recipient’s address] ___________________ [Recipient’s phone or email]

Dear ________________________ [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to enthusiastically recommend ___________________ [Applicant’s name] for admission to ___________________ [Program applied for] at ___________________ [Institution’s name]. Having had the pleasure of engaging with ___________________ [Applicant’s name] as their ___________________ [Relation to applicant] for ______ [Time] at ___________________ [Institution’s name], I have been impressed by their commitment to achieving and maintaining a high standard in all endeavors. This positions me well to attest to their suitability for this application.

During their tenure in ___________________ [Applicant’s field of study/interest], ___________________ [Applicant’s name] has consistently demonstrated ___________________ [Applicant’s attribute/skill]. A notable achievement was their commitment in _____________________________________ [Description of achievement]. As a result, _____________________________________ [Result of achievement].

Moreover, ___________________ [Applicant’s name] has shown remarkable ___________________ [Applicant’s attribute/skill] through their involvement in _______________________________ [Description of achievement]. Because of this, ___________________________ [Result of achievement].

Beyond ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s accomplishments in ___________________ [Applicant’s field of study/interest], they have made significant contributions to ______________________________________ [Description of achievement], showcasing their ___________________ [Applicant’s attribute/skill]. Through these contributions, _____________________________________ [Result of achievement].

To conclude, I am confident in recommending ___________________ [Applicant’s name] for the ___________________ [Program applied for]. I have no doubt that they will continue to excel and go on to make significant contributions in the field of healthcare.

I am happy to provide any additional information or discuss ___________________ [Applicant’s name]’s journey further. I can be reached at ___________________ [Recommender’s phone or email].

___________________ [Recommender’s name] ___________________ [Recommender’s department or title]

Can I use the same letters of recommendation for multiple PA school applications?

Yes. Through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA), you can enter your evaluator’s contact information once, and CASPA will distribute their letter to all the programs you are applying to. However, it’s important to verify each program’s specific requirements to ensure your letters meet their criteria.

Can I have a non-PA evaluator like a nurse practitioner?

Yes. Many PA programs accept letters of recommendation from various healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and other medical supervisors who have closely observed your work and can speak to your clinical skills, professionalism, and suitability for the PA profession. However, it is always best to check the specific requirements of each PA program to ensure that letters from non-PA evaluators are acceptable.

How do I request a letter of recommendation if I’m applying in the future?

If you plan to apply to PA school in the future, it’s wise to start building relationships with potential evaluators early. Here are some steps to request a letter of recommendation:

• Establish Relationships Early : Build rapport with professors, supervisors, and healthcare professionals during your coursework, clinical experiences, and volunteer work. Engage actively, demonstrate your skills and professionalism, and seek feedback.
• Discuss Your Future Plans : Inform potential evaluators about your long-term goals of applying to PA school. Express your interest in having them write a letter of recommendation when the time comes.
• Stay in Touch : Maintain regular contact with potential evaluators. Update them on your progress and achievements. This keeps your relationship strong and ensures they remember your contributions and character.
• Prepare Supporting Materials : When the time to request the letter approaches, provide your evaluators with an updated resume, a list of PA programs you are applying to, and any specific points you’d like them to highlight in their letter. This makes it easier for them to write a comprehensive and supportive letter.

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HOW TO WRITE AN EFFECTIVE LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION FOR PA SCHOOL

Whether you're writing the LOR yourself for your evaluator or relying on them to say all the right things, writing a letter of recommendation for your PA school application does not have to be one more thing to stress about- if you know how to do it effectively.

As you may or may not know, the LOR is one out of the 4 ways in which CASPA evaluates students for soft skills- or skills that cannot be taught or quantified, such as reliability and confidence just to name two.

For us evaluators, once you add us to the CASPA portal to write you a recommendation, they ask us to evaluate you on a graded scale for the following 8 very specific soft skills. These are:

Intellectual ability

Interpersonal relationships

Oral communication

Reaction to criticism

Reliability

Self-Awareness

Team Skills

Written communication.

Armed with this knowledge, we can extrapolate that these are the skills they care to know most about the student in question.

So now the job to write a LOR becomes a bit clearer, now that we know exactly what things

they want to know about the student.

Here is a free, editable template you can use that takes all of this into consideration.

Do edit the template to make it more specific and personal.

Do give short and specific examples of how the student demonstrated possessing these skills to you to make it more effective.

Do make it a page or less to be concise.

Do proofread and use spell check.

Best of Luck!

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HOW YOU GET EVALUATED FOR PA SCHOOL

• Majors & Programs
• Majors & Minors
• Pre-Physician Assistant Studies

PA School Letters of Recommendations

An important part of the documentation to support your application for admission to physician assistant school is the evaluation of your performance in an activity that was directly observed by the letter writer.  This is often referred to as a letter of recommendation, or LOR.

Here are some tips concerning LORs:

• Faculty instructors and physician assistants provide the most useful recommendations for physician assistant school. The authors should know you well and be able to comment on your work ethic and commitment to the profession, as well as report on your performance in the position for which they supervised you.
• We recommend that you select letter writers that know you and your work ethic or personal philosophy – this is probably the most important factor since they are not likely to comment on important characteristics if they are not aware of your merits.
• Choose letter writers who are established and have some seniority with their institution or facility (faculty instructors, not teaching assistants; physician assistant, not receptionist).
• Inform your letter writers about yourself and what information you feel is particularly needed in a LOR. They may request (and you should provide them with) a current resume, transcript, and a good draft of your Personal Statement. Make an office appointment and let them know that you are, for instance, looking for a letter that will speak to your ability to function in a professional healthcare setting.
• Make sure your letter writers know how to submit or upload your letter of recommendation. For the application service (CASPA), letter writers will receive an email with information about how to upload their letter after you put in their contact information on the application. Letters are only accepted electronically through CASPA for schools participating in the application service.
• Letters from family friends, public officials or character-type references are usually not useful and should not be solicited unless explicitly requested by the physician assistant school.
• For most schools, 1-2 evaluation letters from science faculty who taught you in a course, 1 from a non-science college instructor, and 1-2 letters from physician assistants should be enough. Some schools will specify exactly how many and from what type of authors and you should, of course, provide exactly what they request. You may enter contact information for 3-5 evaluators on the CASPA application.
• Check periodically to make sure that your letter writers have submitted their letters. If not, you are encouraged to send polite reminder e-mails to the authors who agreed to provide a letter with a clearly indicated due date that you specified. You are in control of the due date, and we recommend that you send them a deadline that is at least one week before the earliest deadline for the schools you are applying to.
• In general, all aspects of applying to physician assistant school should be done early in the application cycle, not later (applications may be submitted in summer each year). For example, try to involve a few letter writers in the review of your entire application in the spring of your junior year (or the year that you begin the application).  This will help establish a relationship and they will be more prepared to write a favorable and detailed recommendation letter.

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How To Write a PA School Recommendation Letter (Plus Example)

Writing a letter of recommendation for Physician Assistant (PA) school can be both a daunting and rewarding undertaking. As a recommender, you will have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in the journey of a potential PA student. Your letter will serve as an objective, third-party endorsement of the applicant’s credentials and qualifications, and as such, it should be carefully crafted and tailored to the criteria of the particular PA school. With the right approach, your letter of recommendation can have a powerful impact on a PA school admissions committee and increase the applicant’s chances of matriculating into their desired program. In this blog post, we will discuss the best practices for writing the perfect letter of recommendation for PA school so that you can be sure that you are providing an effective endorsement.

• Your eligibility for PA school.
• How the writer knows you and for how long.
• Medical knowledge and attitude towards the workplace.
• A willingness to recommend you for PA school and reasons why you would be a suitable candidate.

Why write a letter of recommendation for PA school?

When someone applies to PA school, they typically request letters of recommendation from individuals who have observed them in a setting where professional medical care is provided. They could also consult a teacher or their boss from a non-medical job. They may need a number of letters, depending on the school they’re applying to.

People typically request a letter of recommendation from someone they believe can speak well of their character or body of work. It means you can work with them to strengthen their application. Consider writing the letter for the applicant if you believe they have what it takes to succeed in PA school.

What is a letter of recommendation?

A letter of recommendation is a letter that is written on someone’s behalf that is typically written in a professional, academic, or personal setting. Applications for jobs or higher education are two of the most frequent reasons for letters of recommendation. It’s important to confirm if the institution has preferences on elements like format, content, or how to submit the letter because the requirements of a letter of recommendation can vary depending on the type and even what institution they’re being sent to.

How to write a letter of recommendation for PA school

You can use the following steps to create a letter of recommendation for PA school:

1. Consider the request

Before saying yes, consider the request carefully. Obtaining strong letters of recommendation is crucial for applicants because they can determine whether or not they are accepted. It’s acceptable to decline if you feel you don’t know the applicant well enough to provide anything more than a general statement or if you simply don’t believe you could write a letter that was entirely positive.

2. Explain how you know the applicant

It can be helpful for the admissions committee if they are aware of your relationship to the applicant in order to properly consider your letter. Describe how you came to know them and how long you’ve known them. In this section of the letter, you should also introduce yourself and list your qualifications.

3. Describe relevant skills

Talk about the candidates’ medical-related abilities. Remember that there are a few key competencies that hiring committees frequently look for in applicants, and make sure to highlight those in your letter. Here are some competencies that committees may frequently consider when evaluating candidates:

4. Talk about their medical knowledge

Include your own assessment of the applicant’s medical knowledge if you are familiar with them from a medical setting. Try to concentrate on the areas where they have particular talent. Additionally, it might be a good idea to highlight any abilities that support their medical aptitude.

5. Describe their behavior in the workplace

Describe the candidate’s actions at work, including how they treated coworkers and patients. Inform the selection committee if the applicant has a strong sense of empathy, works well with others, or has a knack for getting patients to open up. You could also mention how the applicant is perceived by others, such as whether or not coworkers are at ease approaching them for assistance.

6. Provide examples

Include concrete examples when discussing the applicant’s abilities, medical knowledge, and behavior. Anecdotes can be more persuasive than a list of qualifications. Instead of saying they are trustworthy, you could say something like, “They have perfect attendance, regularly arrive early to work, and everyone at the clinic knows they can depend on the applicant for help.”

7. Explain why you think the applicant can succeed

The applicant’s likelihood of succeeding in the program is what the application committee is looking for. Use the examples you provided earlier in the letter to demonstrate how the applicant could be valuable to the program. Give examples of their dependability and teamwork, for instance, and then state, “Their dependability and teamwork are precisely the qualities that may allow them to excel in PA school.”

8. State your clear support of their application

Declare your support for the applicant and their desire to be accepted into PA school to close the letter. The admissions panel should, in theory, conclude your letter by concluding that the applicant is a strong candidate for their program. By writing something like, “I urge you to give them close consideration for admission to your program,” you can prevent that from being their last impression.

Letter of recommendation for PA school example

Here is an example recommendation letter for PA school that you can use as inspiration when creating your own:

To whom it may concern,

My name is JJ Walker. For ten years, I’ve worked as a senior staff nurse at Rosalind Hospital. Sylvia joined our team two years ago as a certified nurse assistant, and she has been a wonderful addition to our hospital family. It gives me great pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for her because she has been every supervisor’s dream.

Sylvia’s first position as a CNA was at Rosalind Hospital, but she quickly made a name for herself as a kind, knowledgeable individual. Hospital staff and patients give her frequent praise. Patients have praised her for her ability to make them feel at ease and cared for, and staff members laud her for her quick, accurate work and proactive approach to learning new information outside of what is necessary for her position.

The incident that, in my opinion, best captures Sylvia’s character as a CNA and as a person occurred only four months into her employment here. One of our more challenging patients had been displaying extreme hostility toward everyone. Understandably, no one was eager to work with this patient. Sylvia volunteered. She listened to them and understood their complaints as she calmly handled the patients’ hostility. She even managed to eventually calm the patient down to the point where other nurses were willing to collaborate with them once more.

Because of Sylvia’s intelligence and empathy, I think she would do well in PA school. She would be a benefit to your program, so I urge you to give her careful consideration.

JJ Walker, Senior Staff Nurse

Rosalind Medical Clinic

Letters of Recommendation for PA School

How do you recommend someone for PA school?

We advise obtaining two professional references in addition to at least one academic reference. Ideally, you should have three letters of recommendation: one from a former professor or instructor, one from a physician’s assistant or another individual who has observed you working with patients, and a final letter from a different member of the medical community.

What letters of recommendation are needed for PA school?

Most schools should accept 1-2 evaluation letters from science professors who instructed you in a course, 1 from a college instructor who does not teach science, and 1-2 letters from physician assistants.

How do I write a letter of recommendation for a physician?

• Gather helpful information from the applicant. …
• Research the organization or school. …
• List your contact information and use a formal greeting. …
• Write the opening paragraph. …
• Discuss the applicant’s medical knowledge and skills. …
• Describe the applicant’s characteristics and demeanor.

How do you ask for a letter of recommendation for a PA school template?

Example of a Request to Someone You Know Well: Good morning, NAME. I’m planning on applying to PA school. I’ve always appreciated your advice, so I was hoping you’d be open to sharing your thoughts on the procedure and thinking about writing a letter of recommendation.

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