Federal Financial Aid PTA Courses: Helping Beginners Become Physical Therapy Assistants Fast
The average salary for physical therapist assistants is $64,080, while physical therapists make a higher salary of $99,710. Start working towards a higher salary now!
You need to complete a physical therapy assistant (PTA) course to get a license or certification to enter the high-paying profession of physical therapist. However, the cost of obtaining a PTA degree can be expensive. Federal financial aid can help you.
Why Choose a Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) Course?
Good Salary
As an important position in the medical industry, the average annual salary of a physical therapist assistant (PTA) is about $65,000. Salaries vary greatly depending on the region and work environment. For example, PTAs in New York can make $70,000 or more per year.Get a Degree Quickly
Most PTA programs only require an associate degree, which is usually completed in about two years. Compared with other healthcare industries that require longer degrees, the shorter study time allows students to enter the workplace faster.Accreditation
PTA programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), and graduates of accredited PTA programs are eligible to take the NPTE exam, which is a requirement for licensure in most states.
Federal Financial Aid for Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) Programs
✅ Pell Grant: For students from financially disadvantaged and low-income families, the maximum Federal Pell Grant is $7,395.
✅ Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): This grant provides funding of $100 to $4,000 per year, depending on financial need and funds available at your institution.
Some Specific Scholarships and Grants for Students Pursuing PTA Programs
📌 ASAHP Excellence Scholarship
- Eligibility: Outstanding health professional students nominated by their institution.
- Amount: $1,000
📌 Mary McMillan Scholarship
- Eligibility: Students enrolled in an APTA-accredited program within 12 months of graduation, nominated by their program.
- Amount: $3,000
📌 Physical Therapist Assistant Program Scholarship
- Eligibility: Enrolled in Wabash Valley College’s PTA program.
- Amount: Tuition and book scholarship up to $5,000.
What You’ll Learn as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Core Curriculum
- Anatomy and Physiology: Learn about the human body, including the musculoskeletal, nervous, and cardiovascular systems.
- Kinesiology: Study of human movement, including biomechanics and principles of movement.
- Treatment Modalities: Introduces various treatment techniques, such as heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation.
- Pathophysiology: Learn about diseases and conditions that affect body function and how they relate to physical therapy.
Clinical Skills Training
- Patient Care Techniques: Training on how to assist patients with exercise, mobility, and activities of daily living.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Guidance on designing and implementing exercise programs tailored to individual patient needs.
- Manual Therapy Techniques: Hands-on training in techniques such as massage and joint mobilization.
Professional Practice
- Ethical and Legal Issues: Understanding the ethical and legal responsibilities of PTAs, including patient confidentiality and informed consent.
- Communication Skills: Training on effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
- Documentation: Learning how to accurately document a patient’s progress and treatment plan.
How to Apply for a PTA Program
- Research PTA programs: Make sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).
- Prepare application materials: transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay, including relevant work experience, volunteer activities, and any certifications.
- Apply online: Most PTA programs have an online application portal. Please fill out all required fields accurately.
- Submit your application: Keep an eye on application deadlines and make sure all materials are submitted on time. After submitting your application, confirm receipt with the admissions office.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Fill out the Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine if you qualify for financial aid. Research and apply for scholarships specifically for PTA students to help offset costs.
- Wait for an admission decision: Programs typically notify applicants of their admission status within a few weeks to months after the application deadline. If accepted, follow the admission instructions, including any orientation sessions.
Help Beginners Quickly Enter a High-Paying Career
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program will give you a rewarding career with an average annual salary of up to $64,080 and fast employment with a two-year associate degree. Federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and special scholarships, can help offset costs and make this career more accessible to students interested in pursuing it.