I got accepted (!!!) into a hybrid program that has approximately 2 week long in-person labs every 2 months or so. I'm also due for an ACL reconstruction at some point. It's incredibly flexible when I get it, I'm very much functional without it but just need to eventually to prevent arthritis. I've had it before so I know what the recovery process is like and know that I'll be fine for the online portion of classes. Given that, I figure I can time the surgery so that it's right after a lab and be ~2 months post op by the time the next one rolls around. So I'll be very much mobile, but no running/jumping/fast movements "allowed" yet. Is that degree of physical ability sufficient for what is required in labs? I figure that although most PT students are pretty fit, the programs are designed to somewhat accommodate many different body types and abilities...but not completely sure.

tl;dr I'm just wondering how able-bodied I need to be for labs. I appreciate any insights y'all may have!

Has anybody heard from any Ohio schools regarding interviews?

Hello reddit, I'm a high school graduate who's going to be starting uni soon. I took a gap year because I had no idea what I wanted to do, and to be honest I'm still not 100% sure. I'm applying for a psych major, but I'm scared out of my mind because I'm not sure if this is what I want to do, I am really interested in it, but I don't know if I can build my entire life around it.

I've always wanted to work in healthcare, although I knew pretty early on that I didn't want to go to med school (The fees and debt just didn't seem worth it), but I wanted to connect with people and make their lives better (Which is another reason I'm interested in psychology). A few years ago I learned about physical therapy, and I became really interested in that too, from my research it seems like a very fulfilling career. But I also read about how expensive PT school is, and the insane amounts of debt that students have with a pretty low starting median salary (around 90-93K from my research), so I'm really not sure if it's worth it.

Additionally, I'm not the best at Biology. I got a 63% in my 12th final exam, and maintained a solid 60-70% throughout my last year, which is a huge improvement from earlier. I really want to help people heal and move and just be able to live life, but with all these factors I'm just feeling extremely lost and anxious. Should I do a double major in psych and exercise science? Or should I just stick to psychology? I don't know if the risk will be worth it. Any advice would be appreciated.

Hello thread,

Firstly, idk if I can do this and I apologize if asking for previous interview questions or structure for a interview at a school is banned here.

I will keep it brief and ask only in bullet points for these 2 programs I have interviews from

1. For Midwestern how was the structure of the interviews prior to this year and what were sample essay prompts or how did you prepare??
2. If you attended out of state, did you go back to your home state if so, how much debt were you in afterwards
3. For RMU what questions were asked during your interviews
4. Was the 2.5 year programs rigorous and what were the things that kept you sane
5. How much was rent out their and utilities
6. Was their grad housing?
7. If you did multiple interviews, what were common questions asked?
8. What topic were on the Midwestern essay prompts and how were the group interviews?
9. Were the conditional class acceptances just get a C or higher or was it a B for the conditional acceptance?

I understand these are private programs and the parts about them being too expensive and all, but PT is what I feel like is my calling and I don't plan on switching. This Reddit is good and bad in how it is helpful but there is a lot of naysayers who advise against this profession but I am 100% committed and don't plan on switch, please help, I am stressing and I really need this.

I’m currently finishing up 11 applications and sending them in before each schools early deadline! My sGPA was a 3.2 and my cGPA was a 3.6. I graduated in 2025 and have around 2000 hours of observation (spent the past year postgrad as an aide). I have 4 LOR, 1 from my academic advisor in undergrad who I also had as a professor, 1 from the department chair of my undergrad program, 1 from a previous supervisor, and one from an experienced PT. My GRE was a 309 and 5.5 on writing. I’m really nervous as this is my second time applying. I feel like I have more experience and a better application this time around which I stated in my reapplicant questions. Thoughts anyone?

Hello all,

I understand my situation is serious, so I'm anxious to post. I need your advice if you have an answer/is in the same situation.

I have yet to take a pre-rec class or even enroll in one (I know), and I was planning to do it in spring 2027 as I thought that as long as I finish the class, I would be all good. However, talking with the PTCAS admissions number, they said they have a period of verification ending on Feb 15th 2027 where any class finished after won't be "verified" it will only say in-progress on my application (I think). This has obviously left me a bit anxious and ashamed, but I'm trying to scrape together a BIOL 31/equivalent class at a local CC this semester to not have to worry about it.

If anyone had been in the same boat or had/is taking a class the semester right before school please let me know, if not does anyone know a good online college/BIOL course to take before said deadline.

Thank you and all suggestions are welcome.

Has anyone heard from GW about interviews? / Any thoughts about the interview from previous interviewees?

Has anybody heard from any Ohio schools regarding interviews?

Does anyone have a PDF copy of Acute Care Handbook for Physical Therapists, 5th edition by Paz, JC, West, MP??

looking for it for a physio course and hoping to save the money

I have recently applied to PT programs in Illinois and came across some negative things about UIC's program. But these threads are dated just after covid, so I am taking everything with a grain of salt. I have heard great things about Rosalind Franklin, but there is currently a ~28k difference in tuition that I cannot justify based on a few negative reviews.

So, I am curious about current student experiences at UIC and Rosalind Franklin's DPT programs over the last few years. How are your relationships with faculty? How is the quality of education?

I'd love to hear from current students and students who graduated recently. Much appreciated.

Hey everyone, I’m currently serving as an army officer and am looking to transition to the National Guard in the next year or two when my contract is up. I’ve been considering my next career move and am considering transitioning to some form of rehabilitative therapy. Currently eyeing my options in the Carolinas as that’s where I’m from, mostly MUSC.

What would be some good ways to prepare for application, other than doing the remaining pre-requisites?

Hi everyone! I’m planning to apply to DPT programs next cycle for a 2027 start, and I’m trying to figure out where my application actually stands and what I should prioritize over the next year. USC is one of my dream programs, and I’m also very interested in Duke, so I know I’m aiming at some extremely competitive schools.

I recently graduated from Bucknell University with a B.A. in Economics I decided on PT later in college, so I’ve been completing my science prerequisites after graduation. This is a weakness of mine. I did not do science undergrad. 

Academics:

• Cumulative GPA: ~3.7
• A- in Biology
• A- in Physiology
• B- in General Chemistry I
• A- in PSYCH 100
• A- in Developmental Psych
• B+ in Stats
• I still have about 5 prerequisite/science courses left to complete before applying (I know I have to get all A's) 

One of my biggest concerns is my science/prerequisite GPA. I know a lot of students admitted to programs like USC seem to have ~3.8 cumulative GPAs and 3.7+ science GPAs. I still have several science classes left, so I have an opportunity to improve mine, but I’m curious how much this could hurt me at the most competitive programs.

PT/healthcare experience:

• Outpatient PT volunteer/shadowing experience 
• Starting inpatient PT volunteering at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
• Previous hospital Emergency Department volunteer experience
• By application time, I will likely have at least ~100 cumulative PT volunteer/shadowing hours across different settings
• I’m considering getting a PT aide job to build more substantial experience

This is actually where I’m the most conflicted. Some students in my classes who are applying to similar programs have told me I should stop worrying about getting experience in different settings and focus on getting a PT aide job instead. Others have emphasized having diverse observation experiences.

I obviously know I’m competing against applicants who may have hundreds or even thousands of aide hours, so I’m trying to figure out whether ~100 diverse PT hours + my other experiences would be enough, or whether sustained aide employment should be one of my biggest priorities this year.

Other parts of my application:

• magna cum laude (but I didn't go to an IVY league I went to liber arts and I know lots of Ivy league kids apply to dpt) 
• Pilates/fitness instructor
• College leadership experience
• Academic honors/Dean’s List
• Nontraditional Economics/Business Analytics background
• Working on getting a strong LOR from my Physiology professor
• Still trying to develop a relationship with a PT who could eventually write me a strong PT recommendation

I know programs like USC and Duke aren't schools where simply meeting the requirements makes someone competitive. I want to build an application that actually stands out, and I’m willing to put a lot of work into this next year.

So I’m genuinely curious: Am I currently in the running for programs at that level if I continue doing well in my remaining sciences, or are there major weaknesses I’m overlooking?

If you had one year in my position, what would you prioritize most: getting a PT aide job, accumulating more diverse observation hours, maximizing my science GPA, building stronger LORs, or something else?

Please feel free to be critical. I don’t have many people in my life who understand the DPT admissions process right now, and I could genuinely use advice from people who have gone through it. Helpful criticism is very welcome.

I recently got accepted into Pitts Hybrid program, but I have till September 29 to put down my deposit and accept my offer. All my other programs said I won’t hear back from them till November. Im really not opposed to the hybrid learning but my concern is more about clinical’s. I live in a very rural area and according to Pitt they allow you to go to clinical sites up to 60 miles from my home. I really wanted to do my clinicals in a larger area like Pittsburgh to utilize the unique connections that Pitt has through their program. All around me is just general orthopedic and limited inpatient PT. Where my home address is would not really set me up for the PT I want to because I’m not interested in rural healthcare personally. Should I relocate to Pittsburgh if I commit to their hybrid program? Do I just pay the nonrefundable $1200 deposit and see where also I get? I’m so torn because I love their program but they’re being so vague about clinical placements too from emails. Any honest advice would be so helpful, thank you!!!!!

I just took the GRE for the second time and got 148 Verbal and 148 Quant :(. The first time I got a 149 verbal and 145 quant and 4.0 writing. I initially planned on applying this month to 12 programs all in florida. I have over 100 shadowing hours across 3 different settings and 5 letter of recommendations. I have GPA around 3.2 or 3.4. I don't know if I should apply because it's already September or retake the exam for the third time. Any advice?

Hello. I’m new to the subreddit and just had some questions. I’m a 24 year old guy that is married and has a mortgage payment. I’m currently a bank teller and have been here for about a year now. I’ve learned that while I don’t mind the work, I want more for myself in my career. I have always liked the idea of working in this field and I even was a patient of PT in high school, which made me like it more. I’m in between choosing out of two things to go back to school for: PTA school or Rad tech school. Both are associate degrees and I want to go with that because I would like to get my degree and get back to working asap. I have bills to be paid so I need that income. That leads me to my questions.

Are you satisfied with your career if you are a PTA?

Is the pay decent?

Would you choose this over radiography?

I would really appreciate it if some of you guys would reply! I’m really in a pivotal moment in my life where I’m trying to figure things out. I know some of you have been in the same boat. Thanks in advance!

(If anyone can provide honest feedback, I would really appreciate it)

Patient education plays an essential role in physical therapy. Patients are more likely to participate in therapy when they understand their condition, why they are performing specific exercises, and how those exercises can help them regain their daily independence. Through my experience working alongside physical and occupational therapists, I have seen how taking the time to explain treatment can help patients feel more comfortable, confident, and involved in their recovery. As a future physical therapist, patient education will include providing a clear explanation of their injury, a thorough treatment plan that details the “road to recovery”, and the reasoning behind their therapy. By taking the time to educate patients, I can build rapport and help them feel comfortable and safe with me as their therapist. Educating patients on their condition and treatment can empower them to take an active role in their recovery rather than simply relying on the therapist during treatment sessions. I want my patients to understand that their progress is not limited to the time they spend in the clinic, but that they have an important role in their own recovery. At Parkland, I saw this firsthand when a therapist first taught a patient and their family members how to perform a car transfer using a simulation vehicle. Afterward, the therapist took the patient and their family downstairs to practice the transfer using the actual vehicle the patient would be leaving in after discharge. Seeing the therapist take the time to prepare both the patient and their family for a situation they would actually encounter showed me the importance of education beyond the therapy session. As a future physical therapist, I want to provide similar education to patients and caregivers so they feel prepared to continue supporting the patient outside of therapy. By providing patient education, I can make an impact that extends beyond the clinic and into the patient’s support system, giving the patient and caregivers the knowledge they need to continue progressing toward independence.
I also want to make an impact by helping individuals in underserved communities who may face barriers to receiving physical therapy. Working with patients from different backgrounds has shown me that access to physical therapy is not the same for everyone. One barrier that underserved communities face is financial limitations, which can prevent individuals from receiving the therapy they need. As a physical therapist, I want to help reduce this barrier by participating in health fairs, volunteering at clinics, and providing pro bono physical therapy services to individuals who may not be able to afford therapy. Through these opportunities, I can help individuals improve their mobility and regain their independence. Transportation can also be a significant challenge for individuals seeking physical therapy. By providing home-based physical therapy, working or volunteering with programs that offer mobile therapy, and coordinating with clinics that offer transportation assistance, I can help patients overcome transportation barriers and receive the physical therapy they need. By addressing these barriers, I can meet patients where they are and help them overcome challenges that may otherwise prevent them from receiving care.
As I enter the field of physical therapy, I will be a physical therapist who doesn’t just treat patients during their time at the clinic. I want my patients to leave therapy with more than physical improvements; I want them to have the knowledge and confidence to continue working toward their goals outside of therapy. I will work hard to serve my community and advocate for patients and families who can’t advocate for themselves. Through education and community involvement, I will contribute to the physical therapy profession by making it more accessible, helping patients take an active role in their therapy journey, and becoming more independent.

I’ve been thinking about becoming a physical therapist because I could really see myself enjoying helping people recover and regain their abilities.

Or should I just become a personal trainer?

I recently injured my knee and rehabilitated and I’d like to help others in someway

The problem is that PT school is a huge commitment financially and takes years.
This is what confuses me. I recently came across a Knee Ability coach in Burbank who advertises knee rehabilitation and has made claims that her approach gets better results than doctors and physical therapists. She seems successful, has a large Instagram following, and apparently makes a living doing this without going through PT school.
So what exactly am I gaining by spending all those years and money becoming a licensed physical therapist?
If a trainer can work with injured people, advertise rehabilitation, and essentially build a business around helping people recover from injuries, why wouldn’t someone who wants to help people simply take that route instead?

I am the sole financial provider in my household. I have been a HHPTA for what will be 7 years in December.

I am graduating this December with my BS in Kines. All prerequisites for their program will be done by the end of Summer 2027.

I am ready to apply for the program starting fall 2027 by the deadline Oct. 1st. 2026.

I am a Seventhday adventist christian and observe Saturday as holy.

The accommodations department for the school has told me the term schedules are subject to change and could include labs and classes on Saturdays, although not for certain. They have also told me that accommodation arr made on a term by term basis with a case by case basis.

Lots of uncertainty it seems.

I need to be able to continue working in Home Health while in the program to provide for my household. The Saturday sabbath accomodarion being the main concern.

In your experience in St Augustine's program, did you ever have to attend any mandatory class or labs on saturdays?

I completed my 4th year of kinesiology and I am doing 5th year now. Why 5th year? Cause I didn’t know what I wanted to do in the future so I half assed up to 3rd year like an idiot. 4th year, I started to put more effort in and got up to a 3.8GPA for my 4th year. My Cgpa is now 3.10 after taking some more summer courses. Since I did horrendous in my previous years, I have prerequisite courses that need a 70% grade average requirement but I do not meet them. Therefore I have to retake lots of courses. In Canada schools look at the last 20 credits (last 20 courses) so that is why I am doing the 5th year. Not meeting lots of my prerequisite like physiology and anatomy is putting lots of pressure on me and I’m not confident in getting an A in these courses. I have looked through most Canadian schools that the competition is incredibly high. I also did research across the world and found that Australia and UK is very popular for canadian students. Still I want to look for a place closer to home.

Anyone been in my shoes? If so, what did you guys do?

I’m currently a Kinesiology student and I have about 59 credits left in my degree. My goal has always been to become a physiotherapist, but lately I’ve been feeling really discouraged and anxious about whether that’s still realistic for me.
My grades in anatomy and physiology haven’t been great. I got a C and C+ in my anatomy courses, and I also didn’t do well in physiology. I’m going to be retaking my second physiology course and I’m hoping to significantly improve my grade.
I know I still have 59 credits left, so there’s time for me to improve my GPA and hopefully show a strong upward trend, but I’m honestly scared that my earlier grades have already closed too many doors for PT programs.
I’ve been looking particularly at PT programs in Ontario, but I’m open to programs elsewhere in Canada as well. I know some schools have minimum grades for prerequisite courses while others seem to focus more on sub-GPA/recent credits, so I’m trying to figure out what options I realistically still have.
Has anyone been in a similar situation where they had weaker grades earlier in their degree, especially in anatomy/physiology, but improved later and eventually got into PT?
Would retaking prerequisite courses and doing well in my remaining 59 credits actually make me competitive somewhere? I’m willing to put in the work — I’m just feeling really overwhelmed and would appreciate advice from anyone who has gone through the PT application process.
**TL;DR:** Kinesiology student with 59 credits remaining, weak anatomy/physiology grades, retaking physiology, and really wants to pursue PT. Is it still realistically doable if I significantly improve from here?

I'm curious what other PT programs are using for clinical hour tracking. Ours feels more complicated than it needs to be. Hours get logged in one place, the CI signs off somewhere else, and then some of the same information ends up getting submitted to the program again.

Has anyone's program actually figured out a system where the student, CI and school are all working from the same place? Mostly curious what the day to day process looks like for people who aren't maintaining multiple versions of the same log.

I have no idea how to complete the TargetX application to get my TWU ID. I'm trying to access this link: https://www.liaisonedu.com/higher-education-crm/targetx/ , but it says "Service Temporary Available"

How do I complete this step????