CAA HUB
Application Guide
The path to become a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA) involves a meticulous application process. Here's a comprehensive breakdown to guide you through the key components:
Application Timeline:
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Mark your calendar—CASAA's application cycle opens in March and closes in February. Be vigilant about individual program deadlines, which may differ. Early submission enhances (but does not guarantee) your chances of securing a spot as applications are processed on a rolling basis.
Pre-Requisite Courses:
Biology with Lab: 1 year
General Chemistry with Lab: 1 year
Organic Chemistry with Lab: 1 year
Biochemistry: 1 semester
Anatomy (lab may be required): 1 semester
Human Physiology (lab may be required): 1 semester
Physics with Lab: 1 year
English: 1 semester
Calculus: 1 semester
Statistics: 1 semester (preferably life science)
*Courses May Vary Between Programs
Entrance Exams:
Prepare for success by taking either the MCAT or the GRE, depending on your chosen Anesthesiologist Assistant program. Note that some programs require the MCAT while some accept both. Confirm the specific entrance exam requirements with your top program.
Personal Statement/LOR
Craft a compelling personal statement—a concise essay illuminating your motivation and suitability for the CAA profession. Adhere to the guidelines:
Length: Limited to 4,500 characters
Prompt: Articulate your motivation for choosing a healthcare career and why you aspire to become a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant. Align your personal and professional background with your career goals.
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*3 Letter of Recommendation required
Experience
This section allows you to paint a vivid picture of your experiences. Detail your leadership roles, clinical experiences, community service, research, publications, awards, honors, and more. Be mindful of character limits for each experience.
Categories include: Employment, Extracurricular Activities, Healthcare Experiences, Research, Anesthesia Shadowing, Volunteer Work, Leadership, Achievements (Awards and Honors), Healthcare License(s) and/or Certification(s)
Interviews:
Post-submission, brace yourself for potential interview invitations—a crucial part of the application process. Assess not only your compatibility with the program but also the program's alignment with your goals.
Embark on this exciting journey toward becoming a Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant, armed with a well-prepared application that showcases your unique strengths and aspirations.