If you are interested in applying to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the University of South Carolina, you will apply online using the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS).

• USC DPT uses a holistic admission process which incorporates each applicant’s unique experiences and attributes. Applicants must meet minimum academic requirements (see below) in order for their application to be reviewed. Students applying to the program must have an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
• Overall undergraduate GPA and GPA for prerequisite courses are considered in the admissions decision.
• In addition, the program requires GRE scores (verbal, quantitative, and writing), two letters of reference from individuals familiar with the applicant’s clinical and/or academic skills, and a writing sample (see PTCAS application).
• Admissions interviews are not required.
• Volunteer hours are not required but are encouraged. Fifty (50) hours are recommended.

Our minimum requirements are a: 1) 3.0 GPA (prerequisite), 2) 3.0 GPA (undergraduate or masters), 3) no less than 146 on each section of the GRE with a 3.5 or greater on the writing score. Note that this is our minimal requirements, please see the program summary for our average admission scores.

Application Deadlines

As of February of 2020, the APTA and PTCAS (Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service) has discontinued the Early Decision option, beginning with the next application cycle. All applicants to USC’s DPT Program will be applying by the October 1st deadline of each year.

Our program is committed to executing the most balanced and equitable admissions process, and do not foresee this change causing our applicants a disadvantage.