The new PTCAS cycle is open and the personal statement (essay) prompt is staying the same. Just like last year (and sort of like two year’s ago), the prompt is: “Every applicant is unique in their own way, possessing individual qualities, abilities, and backgrounds. What unique traits will you bring to the physical therapy profession that will help you to be successful?”
I like this essay a lot, and I’m excited to read it for one more year. This essay really gives applicants the opportunity to do what a good personal statement should do: show who they are off the page. It allows pre-PT’s to demonstrate what they are like outside of physical therapy and PT school, which is incredibly important.
However, starting in June of 2026, the prompt will switch for the 2026-27 cycle to: “As a prospective Doctor of Physical Therapy, how do you see yourself having an impact on the profession upon entering the field? Consider areas such as practice, education, research, leadership, or community-based endeavors.“
Good luck to everyone applying this cycle and reach out if you need any help!