Frequently Asked Questions
About the Program
Q: How long is the University of Washington Doctor of Physical Therapy program?
A: It is an 11 quarter full-time program (two years and nine months)
Q: What is the size of a DPT cohort?
A: 48 students
Q: Are there research opportunities available for students?
A: Yes. Students are required to register for 12 credits towards a capstone project in research or a case study. In addition, it may be possible to do an independent study in the area of research that is of interest to the student and aligns with that of a faculty member.
Q: When does the program start?
A: The program begins in late September.
Q: Are there any resources for pre-PT students at the UW?
A: Yes. The UW Undergraduate Academic Affairs (UAA) has pre-health information on its website.
Q: Do you host information sessions so I can learn more about the program?
A: Yes. We hold online information sessions throughout the year. We'll post dates and registration links on the home page a few weeks before each session.
About Admission
Q: What is the GPA requirement?
A: You must meet the minimum GPA requirements — an overall undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale, a grade of 2.0 or higher in each prerequisite PT course, and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in all prerequisite PT courses.
Q: How are GPAs calculated?
A: You can find the information regarding GPA calculation on the PTCAS website.
Q: Is the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) required for admission?
A: Yes. You must take the GRE within five years of application to the program and the scores must be sent directly to the PTCAS using 0088 code. See the score reports information on the ETS website.
Q: What is the minimum score required for the GRE?
A: There is no minimum score requirement.
Q: I already have a master’s degree. Do I still need to submit the GRE scores?
A: Yes, you must submit valid GRE scores.
Q: I am an international student. Do I need to take the TOEFL?
A: If your native language isn't English, you must demonstrate English language proficiency. A minimum of 100 on the TOEFL iBT is required for our program.
If you have a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. and where English is the medium of instruction, the TOEFL isn't required. See the UW Graduate School English Language Proficiency Requirements.
Q: I have not completed all of the prerequisite requirement courses. Can I still apply?
A: If you have half of the prerequisite courses completed (5 out of 11 courses), you're eligible to apply. All prerequisites must be completed prior to entering the program in September.
Q: Are there time limits on the prerequisite requirement?
A: No. There's no expiration date on prerequisite courses.
Q: Can I take prerequisite courses at a community college?
A: Yes. We accept course credits from regionally accredited institutions, including community colleges.
Q: Can you review transcripts and check if the courses I have taken would satisfy your prerequisite requirements?
A: Due to the large number of applications we receive each year, we don't provide pre-admission course/transcript evaluations. We suggest reviewing UW course descriptions and comparing the course description in your college catalog to gauge approximate equivalencies.
Q: Do you accept Advance Placement (AP) credits?
A: Yes. If the institution accepted the AP credits, you can use credits. AP credits must appear on the official transcript.
Q: How many PT observation hours do I need?
A: Due to COVID-19, we've reduced the 50-hour minimum observation requirement to 25 hours. Please note that you must complete your observations under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist at any physical location within the U.S. Observation hours supervised by other professionals such as a medical doctor, registered nurse, athletic trainer or massage therapist aren't applicable toward this requirement.
Q: Are interviews a required part of the admission process?
A: No. Interviews aren't part of the UW DPT admission process.
Q: What are the tuition rates? How about financial aid for students?
A: Tuition and financial aid information is available on our Cost & Financial Aid page.
Q: Do I need to apply to the University of Washington Graduation School in addition to the PTCAS?
A: Yes. The UW Graduate School application is required. The nonrefundable application fee is $85 (USD).
Q: Are official transcripts required for the UW Graduate School application?
A: No. The UW Graduate School doesn't require an official transcript during the application process. You can upload an unofficial or a student copy for your application. Once you're admitted, you'll be asked to submit an official transcript to verify your bachelor’s degree. See the Admission FAQs.
Q: Do you accept late applications?
A: No. Please make sure to allow yourself sufficient time to prepare your application. We strongly encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure timely processing and reviews. Please be aware that the PTCAS application must have “verified” status to be considered for admission. Late/incomplete applications won't be reviewed.
Q: Do you accept transferred students?
A: No. Graduate level coursework taken at another academic institution isn't applicable toward a doctoral degree at the UW.