CASPer Exam Guide

Introduction

• CASPer: Situational Judgment Test for admissions (e.g., medical school, nursing, PA, residency)
• Importance: Assesses personality and ethical decision-making
• Format: Two sections - Typed response and Video response

Test Format

• 14 scenarios total
• Video-based section:
  • 2 word-based prompts
  • 4 video-based scenarios
• Typed response section:
  • 3 word-based prompts
  • 5 video-based prompts
• Duration: 90-110 minutes
  • Optional 10-minute break after video section
  • Optional 5-minute break during typed section

Question Presentation

• Video response section:
  • 2 questions per scenario
  • 1 minute per question
• Typed section:
  • 3 questions per scenario
  • 5 minutes total for all three questions

Assessment

• Different markers for each scenario
• Keywords matter (e.g., non-judgmental, private conversation)
• Targeted evaluation based on core traits

Types of Questions

• Ethical: Requires open-mindedness and consideration of all sides
  • *Bioethical Principles:
    • Autonomy: Respecting wishes of all parties
    • Beneficence: Ensuring well-being
    • Non-maleficence: Avoiding harm
    • Justice: Upholding fairness
  • Tips:
    • Don’t suggest illegal actions
    • Don't give into inappropriate demands
    • Ask for help when out of control
    • Be empathetic
• Personal: Draws on personal experiences
  • Tips:
    • Brainstorm 5 experiences and reuse them
    • Use keywords
    • Structure:
      1. Describe the situation briefly
      2. Detail your role
      3. Analyze the result
      4. Extract a lesson learned
      5. Connect it to future career
• Policy: Discusses pros and cons of hypothetical or real-life policies
  • Tips:
    • Acknowledge complexity
    • List 1-2 pros, 1-2 cons
    • Conclude with stance (if asked)***

Preparation Tips

Typed Response Section

• Practice typing to increase speed
• Manage time: More time for the first question
• Practice structures for familiarity

Video Response Section

• Interview Techniques:
  • Smile, good posture, hand gestures, confidence, eye contact
  • Record practice sessions on Zoom for review
• Good Lighting: Ensure visibility
• Time Management: Concise answers are better

Resources

• PrepMatch: Simulate CASPer
• Casper Sim: See realistic representative answers
• CASPer website: Official resource for questions and content
• Additional Worksheets: Linked in video description

Preparation Schedule

• Ideal duration: Two weeks
  • First two days: Learn about CASPer and develop structures
  • Remaining days: Balanced practice for both sections
  • Schedule two practice tests (one in mid-preparation, one later)
• Avoid over-practicing to prevent burnout

Reminder: Getting a fourth quartile is possible with proper preparation!