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The first step is to graduate high school and get your high school diploma. This is the smallest level of education you need. One who wants to become a physical therapist should focus on science and health-related courses such as biology, chemistry and anatomy.

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It is important to work hard in your classes to maintain a high GPA. This will benefit you in multiple ways but especially because most DPT programs look for a GPA of 3.0 or higher, particularly in science courses.

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After high school, you need to attend college in aim to get a bachelor's degree. You should major in a related field like kinesiology, exercise science, or biology. It is also important to ensure all required prerequisite courses for PT school are completed.

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Gaining healthcare/clinical experience is crucial to get on the path of becoming a PT. Volunteer or work in a physical therapy setting allows one to gain hands-on exposure. Many DPT programs require observation hours often 50–100+ hours.

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Take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

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Take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

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Check if your target schools require the GRE and aim for competitive scores. This is a standardized test often required for admission to graduate and business school programs. It assesses an applicant's skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, helping schools determine a candidate's readiness for advanced academic study.

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Apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Programs

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Apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Programs

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Submit applications through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS). You must include transcripts, test scores, observation hours, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

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Some programs include interviews as part of their admissions process. It is important to prepare for interviews if the program requires it. This is vital for getting where you want to be.

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Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

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Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program

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Typically a 3-year graduate program that includes both coursework and clinical rotations. Completing this program will get you on the way to becoming a physical therapist.

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Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)

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Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)

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This exam is required to become licensed in any U.S. state. You must pass NPTE if you are seeking to become a licensed physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. The National Physical Therapy Examination is one part of the evaluation process used by licensing authorities. NPTE is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy.

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Pass State Jurisprudence Exam (if applicable)

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Pass State Jurisprudence Exam (if applicable)

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Some states require a test on state laws and practice regulations. The ultimate purpose of a jurisprudence examination is to protect the public by measuring an individual's mastery of the knowledge and skills regulated by state law.

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Apply through your state’s licensing board after passing required exams. To practice as a physical therapist in Ohio, you need to obtain a license from the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board (OTPTAT). This requires completing an accredited physical therapy program, passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), and passing a state jurisprudence exam.

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Maintain licensure through continuing education (CE) as required by your state. As you continue professional development as a physical therapist you will get more experience and knowledge and can work on moving up in the profession.