What is Casper?
The CASPER test is an online situational judgement test used to evaluate a medical school applicant’s suitability for a career in medicine by assessing skills such as critical, thinking, problem-solving and empathy. In 2023, it is currently used as the selection process for medical school entry into the University of Notre Dame and University of Wollongong.
The Casper test assesses the following non-academic attributes:
How does Casper work?
CASPER stands for computer-based assessment for sampling personal characteristics. It is an online, video scenario based situational judgment test. Casper is comprised of 9 scenarios to be completed in 90-110 minutes.
A. Video Response Section
- Four video-based scenarios
- 30 seconds of reflection time and 10 seconds to read the questions
- Two open-ended questions – RECORD yourself
Your recording is either uploaded immediately once you submit your response or automatically after the one minute timer runs out. Once your response is submitted or the timer runs out, you are automatically advanced to the next scenario. You can choose to submit your responses before the timer runs out but keep in mind you won’t be able to go back.
B. Typed Response Section
- 5 video-based scenarios: a video is played, your role is indicated in the scene
- 30 seconds of reflection time
- Three open-ended questions with a textbox underneath
- 5 minutes to type your responses to ALL questions in a text-box
Once the five minutes are up, you are automatically advanced to the next scenario.
You are given an optional 10 minute break once you have completed the video response section, and another optional 5-minute break after the first four typed response scenarios. During your break time, you can stand up to stretch or use the washroom.
How do I take the Casper Test?
Create your account – Be sure to sign up for an account at least 3 days before sitting the test. Visit acuityinsights.app. Please note that there are limited test windows. If you are applying direct to Deakin (not through VTAC), go to deakin.edu.au/casper to find out more about Deakin ID registration codes.
Reserve your spot – once you’ve created your account, you’ll be given a list of test dates and times.
Take the test – you don’t need to study although you do have access to practice questions. Find a quiet place and just be yourself!
Relax – You’re all done! Your score will be sent to the institutions you are applying to as soon as your test has been rated.
How long will the Casper test go for?
Plan approxIMATELY 90 minutes for the test which will include an introduction, 65 minutes to view each of the questions and provide your responses. 5 minutes is allocated to each video and set of questions. You also have the choice of taking a 15 minutes break at the half way point or continuing on without a break.
How does the Casper Scoring work?
Each section in the test is scored by a unique rater. Your score is made up of multiple independent impressions of you. Your responses are anonymized, so raters do not know who you are or how you have responded to other sections of the test.
It is important to note that Casper is not testing for spelling and grammar however it is important to take care with your responses and make sure they are clear.
What Australian Universities require Casper?
- The University of Wollongong uses a minimum weighted GPA of 5.5/7.0 and performance in the Casper test as qualifying hurdles, then ranks applicants using 50% standardised GAMSAT results and 50% standardised portfolio/written submission for interview offer.
- The University of Notre Dame Australia (Fremantle) and The University of Notre Dame Australia (Sydney) rank applicants for interview by the standardised result of GPA, unweighted GAMSAT, Casper, and bonus points, weighted 30:30:30:10. Interviewees are ranked for offer by a standardised combination of the GAMSAT, GPA, Casper, and bonus points scores (50%) and interview (50%).
Sample Video-Based Casper Question and Exemplar Response
Click here for more Casper sample questions
VIDEO-based scenario: You are working as a hospital administrator, and you receive a call from a patient’s family member who is upset about the patient’s care. The family member demands to speak to the head of the hospital and threatens to take legal action.
During the Casper test, you will have 5 minutes to answer the 3 questions.
- What would you do?
- What strategies could you offer to reach a resolution?
- In your opinion, what is the most essential quality to possess in a customer-facing position? Explain your response.
Excellent Response:
- As a hospital administrator, it is my responsibility to ensure that all patients receive the best possible care. I would listen to the family member’s concerns and empathise with their situation.
- I would ask the family member to provide more information about their concerns and ensure that I understand their perspective. I would then explain that I would take immediate action to address the concerns and ensure that the patient receives the best possible care. I would also offer to connect the family member with the patient’s healthcare provider to address any specific concerns they have. I would document the conversation and any actions taken to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care. Finally, I would follow up with the family member after the issue is resolved to ensure that they are satisfied with the outcome and the care provided to the patient.
- Patience and an ability to listen and empathise to the customer’s perspective. The customer has felt like they are wronged so it is important to pay attention to their concerns and provide solutions/steps to address this. Clearly communicate through all conversations and provide timely follow-up to ensure that their concerns have been resolved.
| Criteria | Excellent Response | Poor Response |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | Actively listens to the family member’s concerns and empathizes with their situation | Interrupts the family member, dismisses their concerns, or shows no empathy |
| Problem-solving | Offers to take immediate action to address the concerns and ensure that the patient receives the best possible care, and offers to connect the family member with the patient’s healthcare provider | Fails to offer any solutions or simply agrees with the family member without taking any action |
| Professionalism | Documents the conversation and any actions taken, and follows up with the family member after the issue is resolved to ensure satisfaction | Fails to document the conversation and any actions taken, or fails to follow up with the family member after the issue is resolved |
| Communication | Communicates clearly and effectively with the family member, using appropriate language and tone | Uses inappropriate or unprofessional language, or fails to communicate clearly and effectively |
| Competency | Demonstrates the competencies of communication, collaboration, ethical and professional dilemmas, empathy, and cultural awareness | Fails to demonstrate the competencies assessed by the Casper test |
An excellent response to the Casper prompt shows that the candidate has strong communication and problem-solving skills, demonstrates professionalism, and is competent in the competencies assessed by the Casper test. In contrast, a poor response may show a lack of empathy, professionalism, or communication skills, or may fail to address the concerns raised by the family member.
Click here for more sample Casper typed-response questions!
Top Tips to do well in the Casper Test
1. Familiarise yourself with the test format
The Casper test is an online test that consists of 9 sections, each with a different prompt. Make sure you look at practice questions and complete them under TIMED conditions. There is nothing equal to completing questions under timed conditions, e.g. 5 minutes for 3 questions.
2. Practice with sample questions and with friends
Click here for more official Casper sample questions
These practice questions will give you an idea of what to expect on test day and will help you develop your critical thinking and situational judgment skills.
3. Review competencies assessed
The Casper test is designed to assess specific competencies that are important for success in medical school and the medical profession. These competencies include communication, collaboration, ethical and professional dilemmas, empathy, and cultural awareness. Reviewing these competencies will help you focus your preparation.
4. Develop critical thinking skills
The Casper test is designed to assess your ability to think critically and solve problems in a timely and effective manner. To prepare, practice reading and analysing complex situations and scenarios, and practice identifying the key issues and stakeholders involved.
5. Manage your time
The Casper test is timed, so managing your time effectively is critical. Practice answering questions within the allotted time frame and learn how to quickly identify key issues and stakeholders.
GOOD LUCK!
