Frequently Asked Questions

The CAA Readiness Index (CRI) is a proprietary score that estimates your competitiveness for Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA) programs based on your academic performance. It combines your cumulative GPA, science GPA, and standardized test score (MCAT or GRE) to provide a single numerical score and percentile ranking compared to other applicants.

No, the CRI is NOT an official admissions assessment. It is an independent educational tool created to help prospective students understand their academic competitiveness. CAA programs do not use the CRI score in their admissions decisions.

The CRI is based on analysis of historical applicant data and serves as a guide for self-assessment and goal-setting. Always consult directly with individual CAA programs for their specific admissions criteria and expectations.

Your CRI score is calculated using a z-score methodology that compares your metrics to a large dataset of CAA applicants. The calculation involves:

• Computing z-scores for your cumulative GPA, science GPA, and test score
• Weighting each component based on its correlation with admission outcomes
• Combining the weighted z-scores into a composite index
• Scaling the result to a 0-100 range for easy interpretation

Your percentile ranking shows how you compare to other applicants in our database.

Yes! The CAA Readiness Index is completely free to use. We believe all pre-CAA students should have access to tools that help them understand their competitiveness and plan their application strategy. There are no hidden fees, subscriptions, or premium features.

To calculate your CRI score, you'll need:

• Cumulative GPA: Your overall undergraduate GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Science GPA: Your GPA for science courses (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math) on a 4.0 scale
• Test Type: Whether you took the MCAT or GRE
• Test Score: Your official MCAT score (472-528) or GRE combined score (260-340)

Yes! You can enter practice test scores or target scores to see what CRI score you might achieve. This is helpful for goal-setting and understanding what test score you should aim for given your current GPAs. Just remember that the result is an estimate until you have your official test score.

Both MCAT and GRE are accepted by most CAA programs. The choice depends on several factors:

• MCAT: More medically focused, preferred by some programs, may be required if applying to both CAA and medical school
• GRE: Broader content, may be easier for non-science majors, accepted by most CAA programs

Check with your target programs to see if they have a preference. Our calculator treats both fairly in the CRI calculation.

Your calculation data is stored locally in your browser using localStorage. It is NOT sent to or stored on our servers. This means your information stays private and on your device. You can clear this data at any time by clearing your browser cache or using incognito/private browsing mode.

CRI scores range from 0-100. Here's a general interpretation:

• 80-100: Highly competitive - Strong candidate for most programs
• 60-79: Competitive - Good chances with strong application materials
• 40-59: Moderately competitive - May need to strengthen other aspects of application
• Below 40: Less competitive - Consider improving academic metrics or gaining more experience

Remember that these are guidelines. Admissions decisions consider many factors beyond academics, including clinical experience, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and interviews.

Percentiles show how you compare to other applicants in our database. For example:

• 80th percentile: Your score is higher than 80% of applicants
• 50th percentile: Your score is at the median (average) level
• 25th percentile: Your score is higher than 25% of applicants

We provide separate percentiles for your CRI score, cumulative GPA, science GPA, and test score so you can see your strengths and areas for improvement.

Don't be discouraged! Here are some strategies:

• Improve your test score: Consider retaking the MCAT or GRE with more preparation
• Take additional coursework: Post-baccalaureate classes can boost your science GPA
• Strengthen other areas: Gain clinical experience, shadow CAAs, volunteer, and build strong relationships for recommendation letters
• Apply strategically: Consider programs with varying competitiveness levels
• Seek guidance: Talk to CAA program advisors or pre-health counselors

Remember that admissions are holistic. Many factors beyond academics contribute to a successful application.

The CRI score is based on statistical analysis of thousands of applicant profiles and has strong correlation with admission outcomes for academic metrics. However, it cannot predict with certainty whether you'll be accepted because it only considers quantitative academic factors. Programs also evaluate clinical experience, personal qualities, fit with their mission, and other non-quantifiable aspects. Use the CRI as one tool among many in your application preparation.

A Certified Anesthesiologist Assistant (CAA) is a highly trained healthcare professional who works under the direction of a licensed anesthesiologist to develop and implement anesthesia care plans. CAAs are master's-level clinicians who help prepare patients for anesthesia, monitor patients during procedures, and provide post-anesthesia care. The profession offers excellent career opportunities with competitive salaries and high job satisfaction.

As of 2025, there are 28 accredited CAA programs in the United States. These programs are typically 24-28 months in length and lead to a Master of Science degree. Competition for admission is strong, with programs receiving many more applications than available seats. Research each program thoroughly to find the best fit for your goals and background.

While requirements vary by program, most CAA programs require:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Prerequisite coursework (typically biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, psychology)
• Minimum GPA (often 3.0 overall, 3.0 science but check with individual programs)
• MCAT or GRE scores
• Clinical or healthcare experience (shadowing, volunteering, or work)
• Letters of recommendation (3)
• Personal statement or essays
• Interview (for selected candidates)