College of Medicine’s PA class of 2024 achieves perfect PANCE pass rate

The Physician Assistant (PA) Program at Penn State College of Medicine is celebrating the class of 2024 for an impressive accomplishment: Achieving a 100% pass rate for first-time test takers on the national board certification exam.

The Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) assesses the clinical knowledge, clinical reasoning, other medical skills and professional behaviors for entry-level practice as a PA. The PA class of 2024 at the College of Medicine surpassed the national average for first-time test takers, which is a 92% pass rate.

“This outstanding achievement is a reflection of the motivation and drive of each of the students in the 2024 class,” said Larissa Whitney, director of the PA Program. “We are proud of them and wish them all success as they begin their careers in medicine.”

The PA Program at the College of Medicine is a two-year graduate program that includes didactic and clinical training, completion of program summative testing, assistance and mentoring from faculty advisors and participation in a program-sponsored board review. The program is highly competitive, attracting an average of approximately 4,800 applicants each year.

Thirty students graduated from the PA Program in 2024. Almost half of them are staying in Pennsylvania to practice, and more than 35% of the graduates are entering primary care. Several students are continuing their medical education and entering residency or fellowship positions.

If you're having trouble accessing this content, or would like it in another format, please email Penn State Health Marketing & Communications.