Middle-of-the-pack GPA — The average accepted overall GPA (3.74) is close to the national middle, so a solid-but-not-spectacular academic record is genuinely competitive here.
The minimum is not the target — The stated minimum GPA is 3.2, but the average accepted is 3.74 — a gap of 0.54. Meeting the floor gets you screened in, not admitted.
Experience-heavy — A 1,000-hour patient care minimum is at or above the national 75th percentile. Plan on a year or more of full-time work before you apply.
Faster to practice — At 24 months, this program is shorter than most. That means less tuition and earlier income, but a denser schedule with little slack.
Higher cost — In-state tuition of $123,660 is in the most expensive quarter nationally. Worth weighing against your expected starting salary and loan burden.
Strong PANCE outcomes — A first-time PANCE pass rate of 100% is above the national average.
Stricter prerequisite grades — A minimum of B- in prerequisites is tougher than the typical C. Recheck your transcript before you invest in the application.
Recency matters — Prerequisites expire after 5 years (recommended). Older science coursework may need to be retaken.
California Baptist University is located in California. The details below come straight from the program and are re-checked on a rolling basis.
At a glance
Location: California
Institution type: Private
Program length: 24 months
Class size: 30 students
Start month: September
Application deadline: January
In-state tuition: $123,660
Average overall GPA: 3.74
Average science GPA: 3.66
Minimum overall GPA: 3.2
Minimum science GPA: 3
Minimum PCE hours: 1,000 hours
Letters of recommendation: 3
First-time PANCE pass rate: 100%
Accreditation status: Continued
Admission requirements
GRE: Yes
PA-CAT: No
CASPer: No
TOEFL (international applicants): Yes
Supplemental application: Yes
Shadowing: Recommended
Letters of recommendation: 3 — Professor OR PA OR Physician (MD/DO) OR Supervisor OR Clergy*
Patient care experience: 1,000 hours minimum
Interview format: Selected applicants will attend and participate in the interview process. This will be an all-day activity which includes a face-to-face interview, screening tests in basic math and English composition (70% passing score required for both).
Prerequisites
Minimum prerequisite grade: B-
Prerequisite expiration: 5 years (recommended)
In-progress prerequisites accepted: Yes
AP or CLEP credit accepted: Yes
Pass/Fail coursework accepted: No
Online coursework accepted: No
Required coursework
1. Human Anatomy & Physiology with Lab (I & II); OR a combination of courses covering all human systems—8 units (1 year)
2. General Chemistry with Lab (I & II)—8 units (1 year); OR a combination of three separate courses in Organic, Inorganic, Biochemistry—12 units
3. Microbiology with Lab—3–4 units
4. Genetics—2–3 units
5. Psychology (General, Developmental, or Abnormal)—3–4 units (1 course)
6. Mathematics (College Algebra, Calculus, Pre-Calculus, Statistics)—3 units (1 course)
7. English/Writing—6–8 units (1 year)
8. Social Sciences/Humanities —9 units (3 courses)
Recommended: Biochemistry Molecular Biology Statistics Medical Terminology
Cost
In-state tuition: $123,660
Seat deposit: $1,000
Want to compare your stats to this program? Pre-PA Bestie is a free, always-updated PA program database where you can save schools and see how your numbers line up. Check out Pre-PA Bestie.
We have talked with people connected to this program on The Pre-PA Club podcast. Press play to hear it directly from them.
Marianne Stahovich shares her unique journey as a PA and educator, providing a window into the dynamic world of physician assistant education. With over 25 years of experience, she reflects on the evolution of PA programs and the increasing accessibility of master's degree options. Stahovich's narrative underscores the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of the rigorous demands of PA school. She encourages students to embrace a flexible mindset, recognizing that the transition from undergraduate studies to PA education requires significant adjustments in study habits and time management. Throughout the discussion, key components of a successful PA application are highlighted, such as the need for substantial hands-on patient care experience and the ability to communicate effectively during interviews. Stahovich stresses the importance of demonstrating respect and understanding towards instructors, who have firsthand experience in the field. This episode not only informs prospective students about the application process but also inspires them to cultivate a strong sense of community and support amongst their peers, which is vital for success in PA school and beyond.
What we cover
Chapters
Episode: Mary Ann Stahovich, PA-C - Director of Admissions at California Baptist University · Follow The Pre-PA Club on Apple Podcasts or Spotify · Browse all episodes
Program website: California Baptist University
Admissions page: Admissions information
Prerequisite details: Prerequisite coursework
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 951-552-8515
Address: 8432 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92551
Program information last verified June 11, 2026. Requirements change — always confirm directly with the program before applying.

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