Before considering the NPTE, National Physical Therapy Examination, you must create a concrete path toward becoming a PT. Here are 5 steps to keep in mind:
Steps 1 & 2: College Degree/Internships
It’s essential to get on the right track from the start. Choosing degrees such as kinesiology, exercise science, or health science will give you a level up as a candidate for graduate school. These majors are specific to anatomy, physiology, body mechanics, and so much more-which all encompass a solid ground for your continued education.
Even if your school does not require an internship, getting involved in physical therapy through internships is essential. Paid and non-paid internships are available for student aids in clinics. An internship exposes you to what you will be doing in the future. This is a great time to discover more about PT and an excellent opportunity to determine if this career is right for you.
By your senior year, you should start (or already have started) your internship and be looking into specific graduate schools to apply to. When looking into schools, be aware that the program needs to be accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association. Each school has different requirements, so it’s best to find out sooner than later if you have additional requirements.
Step 4: GRE is a must for the NPTE
After receiving your Bachelor’s degree, depending on the school you are applying to, you will need to take the GRE. The GRE is a standardized admission test that gives schools a general understanding of your knowledge and critical thinking abilities.
Step 5: DPT Program that is NPTE Eligible
After anxiously waiting for good news about your acceptance, you will spend the next 3-4 years studying, studying, studying! Learn, connect, and stay focused on your goal. After all, to become a licensed physical therapist, you must gain and retain information for the next step, the National Physical Therapy Examination, NPTE.
Step 6: National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE)
At last, once you graduate from your DPT program, you must pass the NPTE. In most cases, student physical therapists study 6 months before their planned examination date. At this point in the timeline, creating a strategy that works best for you and your mental health is best. Don’t forget to exercise, eat nutritious food, and have fun.
Congratulations, you are officially a licensed physical therapist!
