PTCAS Background Checks

Background checks vary widely from program to program. Some programs require applicant background checks prior to acceptance, while others require these checks as a condition of matriculation. For questions about background checks – including when in the application process this must be completed – contact each of your programs directly.

Background checks reflect all prior convictions, guilty pleas, city ordinance citations (such as public intoxication), illegal possession(s) including possession of alcohol under the legal age, payments of fines (including those for traffic violations), and in some cases, prior records thought to have been expunged. Note that in some states, common traffic violations can be considered misdemeanors.

PTCAS has partnered with Certiphi Screening to offer participating programs the option of a national criminal background check (CBC) process for accepted applicants. If you receive an offer of admission from a CBC participating program, Certiphi Screening will email you with instructions on how to complete the background check process. Receipt of this email indicates that the CBC is required as part of your acceptance to the program.