Becoming a physical therapist requires a significant investment of time and money. Prospective students face a range of expenses, from direct educational charges to living costs throughout their doctoral program. Understanding these cost components is a first step for financial planning before embarking on a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.
Direct Program Costs
Tuition is the most substantial direct cost of physical therapy school. Rates for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs vary by institution type and residency status. In 2022-2023, average annual tuition was $23,271 for public and $41,949 for private institutions. Total program costs for public in-state programs range from $17,516 to $135,188, while private programs often exceed $100,000 to $200,000.
Residency status significantly impacts tuition. In-state students at public universities pay lower rates than out-of-state students. The average total cost for DPT programs is $108,212 for in-state students, compared to $126,034 for out-of-state students. For instance, some public universities charge in-state tuition $28,434 per year, while out-of-state tuition at the same institution could be $45,664.
Beyond tuition, students face mandatory fees. Application fees, often submitted through the Physical Therapist Centralized Application Service (PTCAS), range from $60 to $100, with some institutions requiring supplemental fees. During the program, students may incur technology fees, lab fees, and clinical affiliation fees. Graduation fees cover degree conferral costs.
Associated Living Expenses
Beyond tuition and fees, DPT students have living expenses. Housing is a major cost, with rent and utilities varying significantly by geographic location and whether a student lives on or off campus. Annual living expenses, including housing and food, range from $11,836 for a commuter to $22,752 for off-campus living. Urban centers typically have higher living costs than rural areas.
Food expenses fluctuate based on dietary habits and whether meals are prepared at home or purchased out. Transportation costs, including fuel, public transit, and vehicle maintenance, are a factor. Many DPT programs require clinical education experiences, which often require temporary relocation, adding travel and alternative housing costs.
Personal expenses include necessities and discretionary items such as toiletries, clothing, and entertainment. Health insurance is a non-negotiable expense; some universities include it in fees, while others require students to secure their own coverage, costing thousands annually. Books, course materials, and specialized supplies add an estimated $1,590 per academic year.
Financial Assistance Options
Financial assistance options address physical therapy school costs. Scholarships are non-repayable funds awarded based on academic merit, financial need, demographics, or professional interests. Institutions, professional organizations, and private foundations offer these. Many DPT programs also provide program-specific scholarships, and some institutions offer graduate assistantships that include tuition waivers and stipends.
Grants are gift aid, awarded based on financial need, not requiring repayment. Federal grants, state-specific programs, and private organizations offer graduate student grants. To be considered for most federal and institutional aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Federal student loans are significant financial aid for graduate students. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are available to all eligible students, accruing interest during all periods, regardless of financial need. Grad PLUS Loans, a federal option, cover up to the cost of attendance minus other financial aid, though they require a credit check. These federal loans often come with more favorable terms and repayment options compared to private loans. Private student loans can bridge remaining funding gaps but often have higher interest rates and less flexible repayment terms.
Considering the Overall Financial Picture
Evaluating the financial commitment to physical therapy education requires considering post-graduation realities. The median pay for physical therapists was $95,620 (May 2021), context for the investment. This earning potential must be weighed against student loan debt. Over half of graduates accumulate more than $70,000 in debt; the average loan for a PT education is approximately $116,183.
Following graduation, prospective physical therapists must pass a national licensure examination to practice, incurring additional costs. The National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) has a fee, plus state licensure fees. These expenses are mandatory steps before entering the profession. Long-term financial planning involves managing education debt, potentially through income-driven repayment plans or public service loan forgiveness for qualifying employers. Pursuing a DPT degree requires balancing upfront costs with earning potential and professional satisfaction.