University of Iowa 5167 Westlawn Iowa City, IA 52242-1110
41.665698372035855, -91.5455449162213
Comprehensive/holistic review plus a Multiple Mini-Interview (MMI). Weighs academics (especially the sciences), the type and extent of healthcare experience, three letters of recommendation (one academic, one patient-care supervisor), and the personal narrative. Minimum science GPA 3.40 and minimum 1,000 direct patient-care hours — hours are weighted by role (e.g., medical scribe counted 75%, pharmacy/dental tech 25%). U.S. citizens/permanent residents only. Recent admitted class averaged ~3.77 cumulative / 3.72 science GPA and ~3,721 healthcare hours.
Summarized from the program’s official admissions / selection-process pages. Always confirm current details on the program’s website.
Format: Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) Where: On campus
Interviews are held on campus in Iowa City across five sessions running from July to December. The day includes a pre-interview orientation, an alumni panel, a campus tour, the MMI itself and a candidate debrief. The program states it is assessing academic potential, knowledge of the PA profession, personal maturity, communication skills and motivation for the profession. Decisions are issued by February 1.
Summarized from University of Iowa’s own admissions and interview pages — verified 2026-07-25. Interview formats and dates change between cycles, so confirm with the program before you make travel plans. See the program’s interview page.
The mission of the University of Iowa Physician Assistant Program is to recruit exemplary individuals from diverse backgrounds and educate them to provide high quality, compassionate health care as a physician assistant.
Featured image: Medical Education Research Facility; source: University of Iowa.
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