What is the minimum GPA for acceptance?
The minimum science, non-science, and overall GPA for each program is as follows:
- PTA - 2.5
- PMPT - 3.0
- Entry-level DPT - 3.4
The GPA that is used for admission is based on the prerequisites that are required for the program degree. Science GPAs are based on science course requirements for the program degree.
Can I apply to the Physical Therapist Assistant and the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the same time?
You will need to choose one degree. However, you can switch from one to the other after applying if you change your mind. You must notify the admission office in writing of your request to have your application transferred to another program.
Should I complete all prerequisites and observation hours prior submitting my application?
All prerequisites and observation hours must be completed prior to the program starting in June. You must submit with your application a plan indicating how and when you will complete the prerequisites and observation hours.
Do letters of recommendations need to be submitted with my application?
Letters of recommendation may be submitted with your application or they may be sent directly from the recommender to the University. A minimum of three recommendations must be received prior to acceptance into a program.
Who should I get letters of recommendations from?
We recommend that you read the recommendation form and give it to three people that, between them, can fully answer all of the questions. Typically this may be an instructor, a supervisor in a clinical setting and or a pastor from your church. We need a minimum of three letters and will accept up to five letters.
When should I apply for financial aid?
You can request a financial aid packet at any time. We recommend that you apply after January 1 with deadline for application being March 1. If you have specific questions regarding financial aid or would like to request a packet please contact the Financial Aid department at (909) 558-1000 (option 2) or through the Student Services website.
What is your class size?
Typical class size is as follows:
- PTA - 50 students
- Progression DPT - 10-15 students
- Entry-level DPT- 65 students
- PPMPT- 50 students
How do I get an application?
You may apply online.
What are observation/work hours?
For the PTA and entry-level DPT programs you must have a minimum of 80 hours of volunteer or work experience in a physical therapy department. Of the 80 hours, a minimum of 20 hours must be in an inpatient setting. This would be like a hospital, skilled nursing facility or rehabilitation center. You may turn in the documentation for these hours with your application or they may be sent directly from the facility to the admissions office. If you have done your hours at more than one facility you may copy the form. We will also accept documentation from facilities if it is on their letterhead.
You need to arrange for these hours directly through the facility at which you wish to observe. For hospitals you typically call the volunteer services department. For private practice clinics call the clinic directly to see if they can accommodate you.
Physical Therapy Observation form- DPT & PTA (PDF)
What is an official transcript?
For a transcript to be considered "official" by Loma Linda University it must be sent directly from the educational institution to Loma Linda University. If you personally send it or hand deliver it, even if it is sealed and signed, Loma Linda University will not consider it "official."
We do encourage applicants to submit an unofficial copy of their transcripts with their application. Even though these are not considered official, the admission office is able to use these to begin evaluating the applicant to see if they have met all the prerequisites.
Do you give preference to Seventh-day Adventists?
Loma Linda University accepts students from all faiths. As an institution owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, first consideration is given to qualified applicants who are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. However, each year we accept qualified applicants who are not members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. On the campus of Loma Linda University over 60 religions are represented by the student body.
Who needs to take the TOEFL?
If English is not your native language, you will need to take the TOEFL. See more information for international students.
International Student Information
Personal Interviews
Personal interviews are by invitation only and you will be contacted after your application has been processed. Typically, everyone who is qualified will be granted an interview. It is preferred if the interview can be conducted on the campus of Loma Linda University; however, if you are out of state or a significant distance from the campus, a phone interview can be arranged. We encourage applicants to prepare for the interview the same way you would prepare for a job interview.
What is an acceptance into your program based on?
Criteria used includes: GPA, interview, essay, recommendations, and work experience.
Clinical Affiliations
All clinical assignments will be made by the academic coordinator of clinical education or a designate. Because of the limited number of local facilities available, assignments cannot be made on the basis of the student's family/marital status or personal preference. Although the department makes an effort to accommodate the student's preference, the student agrees to accept the clinical assignments made by the department at any of the affiliated facilities, whether local or out of state. Clinical facilities may also require a background check and or fingerprinting and may have certain stipulations (ie, immunizations, CPR certification) that need to be met before the student is assigned. Costs for these requirements are the student's financial responsibility.
If I have been accepted, can I defer to the following year?
Yes, if you will be taking the year to go as a student missionary. If you are requesting a deferment for any other reason the faculty make a decision case by case. Please call the program director to discuss your case if you wish to defer.
If you have further questions, please feel free to call or email the program directors personally:
Jeanne Stuart-Mendes, PT
PTA Program Director,
jmendes@llu.edu
Larry Chinnock, PT, EdD
DPT Program Director
lchinnock@llu.edu
Everett B. Lohman III, DPTSc, PT, OCS
Director of Post-Professional Programs
elohman@llu.edu