Physical Therapists

Build Your Physical Therapy Career in the United States

To become a Physical Therapist (PT) in the United States, whether you're a US citizen or an international/foreign student, you must meet rigorous education, licensing, and immigration requirements.

To practice as a PT in the US, one must hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by the Commission of Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

• US students must complete a DPT program, usually of 3 years, after a bachelor's degree.
• Foreign students studying in the US must apply and be accepted into a CAPTE-accredited DPT program, as well as obtain a student visa and meet English language requirements.
• Foreign students, educated outside the US must have their foreign degree evaluated to determine equivalency to a US DPT.

Additional Requirements:

1. All the Physical Therapists must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
2. After passing the NPTE, you must get licensed in the specific US state where you will practice. Each state has its own board, whereas some states may have additional exams.
3. International students must pass an English language proficiency test, IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
4. Foreign students must have a VisaScreen certificate.