CASPer Overview & Resources

What is the CASPer Exam?

The Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics (CASPer) exam is a situational judgment test used by many medical schools and other professional programs to assess non-cognitive skills like empathy, professionalism, communication, and ethics. Unlike the AAMC PREview, this exam format includes 12 text-based or video scenarios that require typed responses to 3 follow-up questions (5 minutes total per scenario). Some schools also require a video response section, in which you will record a video of yourself answering 2 questions related to the presented scenario. 
 

When should I take the CASPer exam?

Both DO and MD programs may require the completion of the CASPer exam. The CASPer test costs $85, including the distribution of results to 7 schools, which need to be identified upon sign-up completion. For each additional program beyond the initial 7, students will need to pay an extra $18 each. Each school may have their own additional  associated fees and deadlines. Note that sending your exam score Please refer to the Acuity CASPer Test Dates Search Engine for the schools you are interested in. In general, CASPer scores will need to be received before the end of the secondary application cycle. PRIME Time encourages students to complete the CASPer in June (after submission of primaries) but before September of their application cycle.
 

General Advice

• Familiarize yourself with the test format and types of questions presented through sample exams
• Practice developing an empathetic, logical, and professional response with a 5-minute timer per scenario
• Seek feedback from friends, families, and mentors on both the content of your answers and body language. It may also be helpful to record yourself, if you do not have someone to provide this feedback for you. 
• Take no more than 2-3 weeks to prepare for this exam.