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Resources > Financial Planning

Financial Planning

Between application fees, testing costs, and tuition, the financial side of becoming a PA can feel overwhelming. This page breaks down the costs you're likely to encounter throughout the application process and PA school itself, along with options to help make the journey more affordable.

Application Costs

Applying to PA school involves more than tuition, there are fees at nearly every stage of the process. Knowing what to expect ahead of time can help you plan your budget and avoid surprises.

Application & Testing Fees

CASPA charges a fee for your application, with additional fees for each program you add. Many programs also require standardized tests as part of the application, which carries their own separate costs.

Interview & Travel Costs

Once you're invited to interview, costs can add up quickly between travel, lodging, and meals. Some programs offer virtual interviews, which can help reduce these expenses.

Common costs include:

  • CASPA application fee plus per-program fees

  • Standardized testing fees, including the GRE and PA-CAT

  • CASPer or situational judgement test fees

  • Transcript and letter service fees

  • Interview travel, lodging, and meals

School Costs

Tuition is only one portion of a program's cost. Understanding the full costs beyond tuition can help you compare schools accurately and plan realistically for the years ahead.

Tuition & Program Fees

Tuition varies widely between public and private programs, and many schools charge additional fees for labs, equipment, and clinical rotations.

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Ask each program about:

  • In-state vs. out-of-state tuition

  • Lab and technology fees

  • Clinical rotation costs

  • Program length

  • What supplies or tools they provide

Cost of Living

Where a program is located can affect your budget as much as tuition does. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses differ significantly from city to city.

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Factor in:

  • Housing and utilities

  • Transportation

  • Health insurance

  • Whether you can work during the program

Financial Aid & Scholarships

There are several ways to help cover the cost of PA school, from federal loans to scholarships designed specifically for PA students. Researching your options early gives you more time to apply and plan.

Federal Aid & Loans

Most PA students rely on federal student loans to help cover the cost of their program. Completing the FAFSA is the first step toward finding out what you qualify for.

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Steps to take:

  • Complete the FAFSA each year

  • Research subsidized vs. unsubsidized loans

  • Look into Grad PLUS loans

  • Understand repayment options before you borrow

Scholarships & Grants

Unlike loans, scholarships and grants don't need to be repaid, making them worth the extra time it takes to apply. Many are available through professional organizations, schools, and community groups.

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Where to look:

  • PAEA and AAPA scholarships

  • Program-specific scholarships

  • Local and community organizations

  • Employer or military benefits, if applicable

Support Resources

The following resources can help you plan, budget, and find support throughout the process.

Program Financial Aid Offices

Every PA program has a financial aid office that can walk you through cost of attendance, loan options, and payment plans specific to that school. Reaching out early can help you plan before you even commit to a program.

Budgeting Tips

  • Build a budget that includes tuition, living expenses, and application costs

  • Track application-related spending separately so it doesn't catch you off guard

  • Look into on-campus work-study or part-time options

  • Reach out to financial aid offices with questions before assuming you can't afford a program

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