Application Questions
When is the application deadline?
Neurologic, Orthopedic, and Women's Health PT Residencies: February 15, 2026
Acute Care PT Residency: March 1, 2026
Do I need to have an acute care/orthopedic/neurologic/women's health clinic rotation or previous employment treating the specific patient population before applying to the program?
No, you don't have to. While we highly encourage a strong background and familiarity with the patient population for the residency you are applying to, it is not a requirement.
Do you utilize RF-PTCAS and is there an application fee?
UCSF does not charge any additional application fees, but we do utilize RF-PTCAS which has its own fees.
Do I need to be currently licensed in the state of California?
Yes, by the first day of the program, a license in the state of California is required (or PTLA in California).
When will I be notified of my acceptance into the program?
Candidates should be notified of their status by May.
Is an interview required as part of the application process?
Yes, we are currently conducting remote interviews.
General Questions
How long is the program?
Our residency programs are 12 months (September 1 through August 31).
Is it possible to speak with a graduate of the program?
Yes, it is! Please contact us and we can put you in email contact with one of our residency alumni.
How much does the program cost?
Annual tuition is $3,000 (for Fall 2025 residents) and is due by the first day of residency. Tuition scholarships are available for the Orthopedic PT Residency; additional details will be provided to Orthopedic applicants.
If I relocate to the area for the program, can I be reimbursed for my moving expenses?
Yes, we do offer reimbursement for eligible relocation expenses. For more information about this as well as many other benefits you can expect as a UCSF physical therapy resident, please see the Benefits section in the programs' Policies and Procedures manual.
Can I tour the facilities?
We have a virtual tour option for candidates considering applying to our program. Please contact us for more information.
Are there campus housing options for residents?
Yes, residents can apply for campus housing options on several UCSF campuses for their year of residency. Please review the Housing Brochure for more information.
What does mentoring look like?
Each resident will have a minimum of 150 hours of structured, one-on-one mentoring during the year from clinicians with a variety of experience. Mentoring sessions are typically 4-6 hours per week, and include pre- and post- appointment preparation and debrief discussions with mentors. During each session, residents will focus on specific goals as they expand their skills. Mentors will also be available outside of weekly sessions for any questions or concerns, and the program director and coordinator will also check in throughout the year to discuss any program or clinical questions. Additional details:
- Acute Care PT Residency: residents will work with a mentor for each of their eight specialized hospital service line rotations throughout the year.
- Orthopedic, Neurologic, Women's Health PT Residencies: residents will work with three mentors throughout the year, one during each trimester (neurologic residents will have one acute care mentor and two outpatient mentors).