Are you starting Casper Test practice? Read this before you start!

What is Casper?

• Casper stands for Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics. Some universities and professional programs, including some dental institutions, use an online situational judgment test (SJT) as part of their admissions process. Casper is intended to evaluate non-academic characteristics, such as professionalism, integrity, empathy, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.
  The question asks what you would do in a difficult circumstance and, more significantly, why. This aids in determining the behavioural tendencies of applicants seeking people-oriented careers.

What Does Casper include?

• The Casper exam is a series of hypothetical situations delivered either orally or in writing. Participants are given a set amount of time to type in their responses to each scenario. Ethical or interpersonal challenges encountered in the workplace or classroom are common themes in these instances. The test is designed to assess an applicant’s critical thinking, communication, and decision-making abilities in this context.

Do I need to study for the Casper test?

• Casper is different because it doesn’t have a specific set of information or skills to learn. It focuses on figuring out who the applicant is as a person and how they act. It tries to measure qualities that are hard to measure with traditional academic tests. This gives admissions committees more information about whether or not an applicant is a good fit for their school.

So how do I prepare for this test?

• To get ready for Casper, it’s crucial to grasp the test structure and become acquainted with the various scenarios and questions that may arise. The official Casper website offers practice scenarios and sample questions that can assist you in becoming more comfortable with the format and developing strategies for handling different scenarios. Moreover, practicing effective written communication skills and decision-making techniques can also enhance your performance on the test.
  It is important to note that each institution utilizing Casper may have its own unique scoring and evaluation standards. Thus, it is essential to review the requirements and recommendations of the dental schools you are applying to and prepare accordingly.

How will I be successful in the Casper test?

• Minimize stress when starting your Casper test by pre-testing your system and ensuring that your computer is free of unnecessary background programs. Check your webcam, computer, and internet connection using the System Requirements Check on your account home page. Take your time to answer the typed and video response questions during the test, using the allotted time for each. Remember to read and plan your responses, even if you don’t finish your thoughts. Don’t be discouraged if you run out of time, as raters focus more on the content of your answers rather than spelling or grammar mistakes. Each section of the test is assessed by a different rater, unaware of your identity or past performance, so if one section seems weak, you’ll have more opportunities to showcase your abilities. Use the breaks to relax and prepare for the next section in a distraction-free environment. Remember to avoid cheating, as it violates the Terms of Use and can have serious consequences. Familiarize yourself with the test format by taking mock Casper tests. This will help you in managing time to answer tricky questions.

Which are the dental schools that require a Casper test?

• University of California, Los Angeles School of Dentistry
• Indiana University School of Dentistry
• Indiana University School of Dentistry

You as a candidate should be well prepared for the various tests before applying to the dental school. Please note that dental school admissions requirements may change over time, and it is always recommended to verify the specific requirements of each dental school you are applying to.