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Made up of 2 sections
The test is divided into 2 sections. The first is the typed response section. In this section, you will be presented with 3 word-based scenarios and 6 video-based scenarios. The second section is the video response section. Here, you will be presented with 2 word-based scenarios and 4 video-based scenarios.
Made up of 15 scenarios
Each scenario contains three open-ended questions. Test takers have 5 minutes to type their responses to all three questions in the typed response section and 1 minute to video-record their responses to each of the 3 questions in the video response section.
100-120 minutes in length
Casper progresses from one scenario to the next automatically. It typically takes 100-120 minutes to complete the whole test. We provide an optional 5 minute break half-way through the typed response section and an optional 10-minute break before the video response section.
Scored by a group of human raters
Each scenario of a test is scored by a different rater. The group of raters reflects the diversity of the population. All raters are extensively trained, put through implicit bias training, vetted, and understand the importance of their work as a Rater and the impact it has on an applicant’s future. The Altus team has numerous quality assurance measures in place to ensure the integrity of scores assigned by our raters.
Scores get sent to selected programs automatically
Once a test is rated, 2-3 weeks after the test date, the score from the typed response section is sent automatically to the programs that the applicant has selected for distribution. Programs then update application statuses within their individual application portals.
What does Casper assess for?
Collaboration
Communication
Empathy
Equity
Ethics
Motivation
Problem Solving
Professionalism
Resilience
Self Awareness
Frequently asked questions
Why do programs require Casper? Programs are looking to make sure that students are not only academically capable but also possess suitable personal and professional qualities that make them more likely to succeed in the profession. Research has demonstrated that Casper is reliable and also predicts future success in medical school, so the scores derived from the test are able to tell programs something meaningful about their applicants. |
How does Casper help applicants? Casper allows applicants to demonstrate their people skills earlier on in the admissions process. Although programs would like to get to learn more about each of their applicants personally, they often receive thousands of applications and unfortunately don’t have the resources to review every one in detail. This means they could miss out on great candidates who have the right mix of academic success and excellent people skills. |
Do I need to study for Casper? Our research shows that test preparation for Casper only slightly improves results. It shows that Casper is relatively immune to coaching. However, to ensure you are ready for the test and to display your ability, it is important prior to your test date to familiarize yourself with the test format and technical requirements so you are comfortable, oriented and focused on test day. Read our blog for specific tips on how to prepare for Casper. Visit the test prep page for more information on how to prepare for the Casper test. |
