Summary

Foreign-trained medical professionals who wish to practice as a Physician Associate/Physician Assistant (PA) in the United States must complete the requirements established for PA education, certification, and licensure. This article outlines the general pathway and provides resources to help you learn more about becoming a PA in the United States.

Before You Begin

• Understand that practicing as a PA in the United States requires completion of an accredited PA education program, certification, and state licensure.
• Be prepared to review admission requirements established by individual PA programs.

Steps to Resolve

Step 1: Apply to an ARC-PA Accredited PA Program

To become a PA in the United States, you must apply to and graduate from an ARC-PA accredited PA program.

Individual PA programs determine their own admission requirements and policies. It is up to each program to decide whether your prior medical education and professional experience may affect the path toward earning a PA degree.

Step 2: Graduate from the PA Program

Successfully complete all requirements established by the PA program and graduate from the accredited program.

Step 3: Pass the PANCE Examination

After graduation, you must sit for and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE).

Step 4: Apply for State Licensure

Once certified, apply for licensure in the state or states where you intend to practice.

Step 5: Review Additional Resources

To learn more about becoming a PA, review the resources provided by AAPA, PAEA, and NCCPA.

Confirmation / Expected Result

You will be eligible to pursue PA practice in the United States after completing an ARC-PA accredited PA program, passing the PANCE examination, and obtaining licensure in the state or states where you intend to practice.

Troubleshooting

If you have questions about PA program admission requirements, contact the PA programs you are considering directly, as each program determines its own admissions policies.

If you are unable to complete these steps, contact AAPA Customer Care for assistance.

Important Notes

• Prior medical education or healthcare experience does not replace the requirement to complete an ARC-PA accredited PA program.
• Decisions regarding how previous education or experience may be considered are made by individual PA programs.
• Individuals certified as medico assistentes in Puerto Rico are not certified as PAs and may not practice as PAs elsewhere in the United States.
• Foreign-trained medical professionals may be eligible for AAPA Affiliate Membership.
• Individuals planning to apply to PA programs may wish to explore AAPA's Pre-PA Membership benefits and resources.

Related Articles and Links

• Become a PA
• PAs Working Abroad Resources
• PAEA PA Program Directory
• NCCPA Certification Information