PT School 101: What You Need to Know (and What No One Tells You)

Thinking about applying to physical therapy (PT) school? Whether you’re passionate about patient care, rehabilitation, or helping others regain their independence, a career as a physical therapist is both rewarding and challenging.

But getting into PT school and thriving once you arrive requires more than just ambition. Here's a candid look at what's truly required to succeed—with a few insights that often go unmentioned.

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1. Nail the Physical Therapy School Requirements 

Before anything else, make sure you meet the basic physical therapy school requirements. These typically include:

• A bachelor’s degree (commonly in a related field like kinesiology or biology)

• Prerequisite coursework such as anatomy, physiology, or physics

• A competitive GPA (usually 3.0 or higher)

• A good GRE score (if required)

• Observation or volunteer hours in a clinical setting

Tip: Start gathering your prerequisites early and keep a checklist to stay organized. Admission boards aren’t just looking for academic achievers; they want dedicated and prepared applicants with hands-on experience.

2. Understand the Reality of Physical Therapy School 

PT school isn’t just hard work; it’s a full-time (and challenging) commitment. Beyond the intense class schedule, you’ll also need to juggle clinical rotations, exams, and mastering hands-on skills. It’s easy to underestimate the workload, but balancing everything is crucial for success.

What no one tells you: PT school is more than memorizing muscle groups and physical therapy techniques. It’s about learning empathy, communication, and critical thinking under pressure. Your ability to connect with patients and colleagues will set you apart as a physical therapist.

3. Be Prepared to Adjust Your Lifestyle 

Once you’re in PT school, personal sacrifices are inevitable. Long study hours, weekends spent at clinical placements, and financial planning are all part of the package. For many, there’s little time for part-time jobs or extensive social activities.

Insider advice: Surround yourself with a strong support system. Fellow students, professors, friends, and family can make all the difference when things feel overwhelming.

4. Seek Out PT School Tips for Success 

Thriving in PT school requires strategy. Some tips to get ahead include:

• Join study groups for collaborative learning

• Connect with alumni for advice on classes, professors, and clinical rotations

• Use apps or tools to manage your schedule effectively

• Stay physically active! It’s ironic to preach healthy habits while neglecting your own well-being

• Look for mentorship opportunities during clinical rotations

When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to professors or fellow students. Building a network will benefit you long after you graduate.

5. Plan Ahead for Life Beyond PT School 

PT school is just the beginning! Once you graduate, you're tasked with transitioning into the workforce, passing your licensure exam (NPTE), and securing a rewarding role as a physical therapist.

See Also

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Elevate Your Career as a New Grad Physical Therapist

One way to make this process easier? Find new-graduate physical therapy assignments with a trusted partner like AMN Healthcare. We offer roles across the country, giving you the freedom to gain hands-on experience in diverse settings, from hospitals to specialized clinics. Plus, with our support, you’ll start your career with the confidence and guidance you need to thrive.

Thinking about your future? Explore career opportunities with AMN Healthcare and set yourself up for success as a physical therapist.

Kickstart Your PT Career Today