Before you apply, physical therapy schools will expect that you have explored the profession through observing in a PT environment. Shadowing observation hours will help you decide if a career in physical therapy is the right fit for you.
The number of programs requiring shadowing hours under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist is 68% of programs. The average shadowing hours reported for programs requiring shadowing was 48 hours. Those recommending shadowing hours is 11% of programs. The average shadowing hours reported for programs recommending shadowing was 57 hours. (PTCAS 2025-2026 application cycle data).
You are encouraged to use APTA's ChoosePT Directory to find PTs in your local area and ask about the possibility for shadowing. For tips on creating a shadowing letter of introduction, consult the shadowing page.
Programs typically prefer shadowing observation hours in a variety of settings. You can shadow in physical therapy clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sport and fitness centers, and assisted living facilities.
Most programs require that your observation hours be verified by the licensed physical therapist that you shadowed. You will provide each therapist’s contact information during application. It is important to log your shadowing hours, confirm those hours with each physical therapist you shadow, and maintain their current contact information so you can reach them at the time you are applying.
View the PT observation requirements by program.