Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
Philippines-Trained Physical Therapist License in Virginia
Key Facts
- State
- Virginia (VA)
- Licensing Board
- Virginia Board of Physical Therapy
- US Exam
- NPTE
- Timeline
- 6–18 months
- Est. Cost Range
- $3,000–$6,000
- Credential Eval
- FCCPT
Virginia Requirements for Filipino Physical Therapists
To practice as a physical therapist in Virginia, internationally educated applicants must have their Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSPT) evaluated for US equivalency and pass the NPTE (National Physical Therapy Examination). Virginia may have additional state-specific requirements such as jurisprudence exams, supervised practice hours, or continuing education.
Philippine PT programs are bachelor's-level (4 years), while the US now requires a DPT (doctoral level). Evaluators assess coursework equivalency to determine eligibility. For the full list of Virginia physical therapist licensing requirements including fees, education prerequisites, and renewal details, see the complete Virginia physical therapist license guide.
All applicants must complete a background check as part of the Virginia application process. Fingerprinting requirements vary by state.
Step-by-Step: Philippines to Virginia
- Get credentials evaluated by FCCPT (Foreign Credentialing Commission on Physical Therapy) — submit official transcripts and degree certificate from Philippines.
- Meet English proficiency requirements — typically via TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic. Check Virginia board for minimum scores.
- Pass the NPTE — the same licensing exam required of US-educated physical therapists. VisaScreen certificate required for occupational visa.
- Apply to the Virginia licensing board — submit your credential evaluation, exam results, and application fee.
- Complete background check — fingerprinting and criminal history review as required by Virginia.
Estimated Costs for Virginia
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation (FCCPT) | $200–$500 |
| English Proficiency Exam | ~$200–$300 |
| NPTE Exam | Varies |
| Virginia Application Fee | Varies by state |
| Background Check / Fingerprinting | ~$30–$100 |
| Estimated Total | $3,000–$6,000 |
Costs are approximate. See the full Virginia physical therapist guide for detailed, state-specific fee information.
Full Virginia Physical Therapist License Guide
For complete details on Virginia licensing requirements including education prerequisites, exam info, fees, renewal, and reciprocity — see the full state guide.
View Virginia Physical Therapist Requirements