The Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) calculates a cumulative grade point average (GPA) based on all undergraduate coursework attempted. This includes courses from all institutions attended, even if transferred credits appear on a different transcript. CASPA utilizes a specific formula, weighing each course grade according to a standard 4.0 scale (A=4.0, A-=3.7, B+=3.3, etc.) and multiplying by the course’s credit hours. These weighted values are summed, and the total is divided by the total number of credit hours attempted. Repeated coursework is handled uniquely; CASPA factors in all attempts of a repeated course into the calculation, unlike some academic institutions.
This standardized GPA calculation provides a uniform metric for physician assistant programs to evaluate applicants, regardless of institutional grading variations. It offers a level playing field, allowing admissions committees to compare applicants objectively. Having a strong GPA, as calculated by CASPA, is often a key factor in gaining admission to competitive PA programs. Historically, the standardized approach has streamlined the application process, enabling programs to efficiently assess large numbers of applicants with diverse academic backgrounds.
