Respiratory therapy is a vital healthcare profession focused on treating patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.
To pursue a career as a respiratory therapist, students must meet specific admission requirements that vary by program but generally include a combination of academic prerequisites, standardized test scores, and relevant healthcare experience.
Understanding these requirements is essential for prospective students to successfully navigate the application process and secure a spot in a competitive respiratory therapy program.
Is it Hard to Get Accepted into Respiratory Therapy School?
Gaining acceptance into respiratory therapy school can be competitive due to the rigorous academic and clinical requirements. Prospective students need a strong academic background, particularly in science courses, and satisfactory standardized test scores.
While the competition may be challenging, thorough preparation and a clear demonstration of passion for respiratory therapy can significantly improve an applicant’s chances of acceptance.
Admission Requirements for Respiratory Therapy School
To be eligible to apply to respiratory therapy school, you must meet several key requirements:
- Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent
- Complete the required prerequisite courses
- Maintain a competitive GPA
- Submit an application to your preferred schools
- Provide proof of clinical experience or observation hours
- Submit previous college transcripts
- Submit ACT or SAT scores
- Provide letters of recommendation
- Pay the required application fees
- Enroll in an accredited respiratory therapy program
Note: Each program may have slightly different admission requirements, so it’s essential to check with your chosen schools for specific details and deadlines.
Watch this video or keep reading to learn more about the most common admission requirements for respiratory therapy school.
1. Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent
The first step in the admissions process is obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent. If you haven’t completed high school, you’ll need to do so before applying to a respiratory therapy program.
This can typically be achieved by completing a GED program or taking necessary courses at a local community college.
2. Complete the Required Prerequisite Courses
To apply to respiratory therapy school, you must complete a set of prerequisite courses, which typically include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I
- Anatomy and Physiology II
- College Algebra
- English Composition
- Medical Terminology
Note: Most programs require these courses to be completed with a grade of “C” or better, though exact requirements may vary by school.
3. Maintain a Competitive GPA
Your GPA is a crucial factor in the admissions process. Most schools require a minimum GPA of 2.5, but the average GPA of accepted students is often higher.
If your GPA is below this average, consider taking additional courses or retaking classes to improve it.
Additionally, schools often focus on your GPA from the last two years of college, so maintaining a strong GPA throughout your academic career is important.
4. Submit an Application to Your Preferred Schools
The next step is to submit applications to the colleges or universities you are interested in. Ensure that your application is complete and accurate, including all required information and documents.
This attention to detail can make a significant difference in the evaluation of your application.
5. Submit Proof of Clinical Experience or Observation Hours
To apply to respiratory therapy school, you may need to provide proof of clinical experience or observation hours. This requirement is often met by completing an internship or externship at a local hospital or medical facility.
If you lack medical field experience, consider shadowing a respiratory therapist or volunteering in a hospital.
This not only fulfills the requirement but also gives you valuable insight into the profession and helps you determine if it’s the right career path for you.
6. Submit Previous College Transcripts
If you have taken any college courses previously, you must submit your transcripts with your application. Schools review these transcripts to assess your academic performance and eligibility for admission.
If you have attended multiple institutions, request transcripts from each one to ensure a complete application.
7. Submit ACT or SAT Scores
In addition to your transcripts, you may need to submit ACT or SAT scores. Requirements vary by school, but most institutions expect a minimum score of 18 on the ACT or 950 on the SAT.
If your scores do not meet these minimums, a strong GPA might still make you a viable candidate, though your chances of acceptance may be lower.
8. Submit Letters of Recommendation
As part of your application to respiratory therapy school, you may need to submit letters of recommendation. These letters should come from individuals who can attest to your character and abilities, such as teachers, coaches, or employers.
If you have family members or friends who are respiratory therapists, they can also provide valuable recommendations.
9. Pay the Required Application Fees
After completing all other application requirements, you will need to pay the application fees. Most schools charge around $50, but fees can vary, so check with each school for specific details.
Once the fee is paid, your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be contacted for an interview. The interview is your opportunity to demonstrate to the admissions committee why you are an excellent candidate for the program.
Dress professionally and be prepared to answer questions about your background, experience, and motivation for pursuing a career in respiratory therapy.
10. Enroll in an Accredited Respiratory Therapy Program
Upon acceptance into an accredited respiratory therapy program, you must enroll and begin your coursework.
Congratulations on taking this significant step toward a rewarding career as a respiratory therapist.
FAQs About the Admission Requirements for Respiratory Therapy School
How to Get Accepted into Respiratory Therapy School?
To get accepted into respiratory therapy school, you need to meet several key requirements. Start by obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent and completing prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.
Maintain a competitive GPA, typically above 2.5, but aim higher to increase your chances. Submit a complete application with proof of clinical experience or observation hours, previous college transcripts, ACT or SAT scores (if applicable), and letters of recommendation.
Pay the application fee and prepare for an interview if invited. Demonstrating a genuine passion for respiratory therapy and thorough preparation can significantly improve your chances of acceptance.
How Competitive is Respiratory Therapy School?
Respiratory therapy school can be quite competitive due to the rigorous academic and clinical requirements and the projected growth in the field.
Programs often receive many applications for a limited number of spots, requiring prospective students to have strong academic backgrounds, relevant healthcare experience, and solid performance in standardized tests. Additionally, letters of recommendation and interviews play a significant role in the selection process.
Thorough preparation and a well-rounded application can help you stand out in the competitive admissions landscape.
What is the Best School for Respiratory Therapy?
The best school for respiratory therapy depends on various factors, including program accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, clinical training opportunities, and personal preferences.
It’s important to research each school’s specific offerings, admission requirements, and outcomes for graduates.
Additionally, consider factors such as location, cost, and available resources to determine the best fit for your educational and career goals.
What Math Do You Need for Respiratory Therapy?
To succeed in respiratory therapy, you need a solid foundation in basic math skills. Most programs require proficiency in college-level algebra, which includes understanding functions, equations, and graphing.
Additionally, you may need to grasp basic statistics for interpreting data and performing calculations related to respiratory care.
These math skills are crucial for tasks such as calculating dosages, understanding ventilator settings, and interpreting pulmonary function test results.
Is Respiratory Therapy School Worth It?
Yes, respiratory therapy school is worth it for many students. The field of respiratory therapy is growing, with increasing demand for skilled professionals due to rising respiratory health issues and an aging population.
Completing a respiratory therapy program can lead to a rewarding career with competitive salaries and job stability.
Additionally, respiratory therapists have the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients’ lives by providing essential care and improving respiratory health.
If you are passionate about healthcare and helping others, a career in respiratory therapy can be both fulfilling and lucrative.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and meeting the admission requirements for respiratory therapy schools is a crucial step toward a rewarding career in respiratory care.
By fulfilling these prerequisites, prospective students demonstrate their readiness and commitment to the field, paving the way for a successful educational experience and professional future.
As you embark on this journey, ensure you have thoroughly researched and prepared for all aspects of the application process to maximize your chances of acceptance and success.
Written by:
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
References
- Faarc, Kacmarek Robert PhD Rrt, et al. Egan’s Fundamentals of Respiratory Care. 12th ed., Mosby, 2020.
- “What Is An RT?” AARC, 12 Sept. 2019.
- “The National Board for Respiratory Care.” The National Board for Respiratory Care; nbrc.org. 2024.
- “Respiratory Therapists : Occupational Outlook Handbook.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 10 May 2022.