Casper SJT at the University of Wollongong (UOW)

The University of Wollongong incorporates the Casper Situational Judgement Test as a mandatory component for admission into its flagship postgraduate medical program, the Doctor of Medicine (MD). As of the current understanding for the 2025/2026 admissions cycle, failing to complete the Casper test by the specified deadlines will typically result in an application being deemed ineligible for consideration.

What is Casper?

Casper is an online assessment designed and administered by Acuity Insights. It evaluates key non-academic attributes crucial for success in people-focused professions like medicine. Rather than testing specific knowledge, Casper presents applicants with a series of realistic video-based and text-based scenarios depicting challenging interpersonal or ethical situations. Applicants must provide typed, open-ended responses within a set time limit for each scenario. The test assesses characteristics such as:  

• Professionalism and Ethics
• Empathy and Compassion
• Communication and Collaboration skills
• Equity and Cultural Sensitivity
• Problem-solving and Judgement
• Resilience and Adaptability
• Self-awareness and Motivation

The goal is to offer the UOW Graduate Medicine admissions committee a broader perspective on applicants, complementing traditional academic metrics (GPA) and aptitude tests (GAMSAT).

Role in UOW MD Admissions

For entry into the UOW MD program, Casper is one of several key criteria used in the selection process for all domestic applicants, including those applying via the General Entry Pathway and the Rural Entry Pathway. International applicants also typically need to complete the Casper test.  

The admission criteria for domestic applicants generally involve consideration of:

1. A valid Grade Point Average (GPA) from a qualifying bachelor’s degree.
2. A valid GAMSAT score (Graduate Medical School Admissions Test).
3. A valid Casper score.
4. Any applicable UOW MD Admissions bonuses (e.g., for regional background, specific UOW pathway completions).
5. Performance in the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI).

While the precise mathematical weighting of the Casper score in the ranking algorithm for interview offers isn’t always explicitly published or may vary slightly year-to-year, it is a critical component. Some sources suggest it plays a primary role in interview ranking, while others list it as one weighted factor among GPA, GAMSAT, and bonuses used to determine who receives an MMI invitation. Regardless of the exact formula, a competitive Casper score is essential to progress to the interview stage. Performance in the MMI is then heavily weighted in determining the final offer of a place. Therefore, Casper acts as a significant initial screening tool focusing on non-academic suitability.  

Logistics for UOW Applicants

• Registration: Applicants must register for the Casper test directly through the Acuity Insights website (takecasper.com or acuityinsights.app).  
• Test Dates: UOW specifies particular test dates acceptable for its admissions cycle. For domestic applicants targeting the 2026 MD intake, test dates typically fall between March and June 2025. International applicants might have a slightly broader range of dates, potentially extending later into the year (e.g., September). It is crucial to check the official UOW Graduate Medicine admissions page and the Acuity Insights website for the exact dates and deadlines relevant to the specific entry year and applicant type (domestic/international). As today is May 2, 2025, several test dates for the current cycle should still be available.  
• Identification: When registering, applicants usually need to provide their GAMSAT ID.
• Score Distribution: During registration or shortly after, applicants must select the University of Wollongong to ensure their scores are automatically sent to the UOW admissions team.
• Cost: There are fees associated with taking the Casper test and distributing the score report to institutions.  
• Preparation: Acuity Insights provides practice materials and familiarization resources on their website, which applicants are strongly encouraged to utilize.  

Based on the information provided regarding the Casper Situational Judgement Test (SJT) requirement for the University of Wollongong’s (UOW) Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, utilising mock tests is a highly beneficial preparation strategy for applicants. Here’s how they help specifically in the context of UOW’s process:

1. Mastering the Mandatory Format:
   • UOW Context: The provided text clearly states Casper is an “indispensable requirement” and a “mandatory component” involving online assessment with video/text scenarios and timed, typed responses.
   • Mock Test Benefit: Practice tests perfectly replicate this online format. By using mock tests, candidates become familiar with navigating the Acuity Insights platform, transitioning between scenario types, understanding the layout of questions, and managing the response input under timed conditions. This familiarity is crucial for reducing anxiety and ensuring smooth technical operation during the actual mandatory test.
2. Demonstrating UOW’s Valued Non-Academic Attributes:
   • UOW Context: UOW uses Casper to evaluate key non-academic attributes like “Professionalism and Ethics, Empathy and Compassion, Communication and Collaboration skills, Equity and Cultural Sensitivity, Problem-solving and Judgement,” etc., aiming for a broader perspective beyond GPA and GAMSAT scores.
   • Mock Test Benefit: Mock tests present scenarios specifically designed to probe these attributes. Practicing allows candidates to consciously think about how their responses reflect these qualities. They learn to articulate their reasoning, consider multiple perspectives, and demonstrate empathy and ethical judgement in their written answers, thereby showcasing the very characteristics UOW is looking to assess.
3. Developing Efficiency Under Time Constraints:
   • UOW Context: The test involves providing “typed, open-ended responses within a set time limit.” This necessitates quick thinking and efficient writing.
   • Mock Test Benefit: Regularly practicing with mock tests under strict timed conditions helps candidates hone their ability to quickly analyze complex situations, formulate coherent thoughts, and type them clearly within the allocated time (often 5 minutes for three questions). This skill is vital to ensure all aspects of the prompt are addressed adequately.
4. Achieving a Competitive Score for Interview Selection:
   • UOW Context: Casper is described as a “critical component” and a “significant initial screening tool.” While the exact weighting might not be published, a “competitive Casper score is essential to progress to the interview stage.”
   • Mock Test Benefit: Given its crucial role in determining MMI invitations, maximizing performance on Casper is essential. Mock tests provide a benchmark for applicants to gauge their current level. They can identify areas where their responses might be weak (e.g., lacking depth, not considering all stakeholders) and practice refining their approach. This iterative practice helps improve the quality of responses, thereby increasing the likelihood of achieving the competitive score needed to pass this significant UOW screening phase.
5. Building Confidence and Reducing Stress:
   • UOW Context: Facing a mandatory test that significantly impacts progression can be stressful.
   • Mock Test Benefit: Engaging with mock tests builds familiarity and demystifies the assessment. Knowing what to expect in terms of format, timing, and question style reduces uncertainty and builds confidence, enabling applicants to perform closer to their potential on the actual test day.
6. Aligning with Recommended Preparation:
   • UOW Context: The provided text explicitly mentions that “Acuity Insights provides practice materials and familiarization resources on their website, which applicants are strongly encouraged to utilize.”
   • Mock Test Benefit: Using mock tests, especially the official practice materials offered by Acuity Insights, directly follows the preparation advice highlighted for UOW MD applicants.

Conclusion

The Casper SJT is an indispensable requirement for applicants seeking admission to the Doctor of Medicine program at the University of Wollongong. It serves as a vital tool for assessing the essential personal and professional qualities required for a demanding medical career, complementing academic achievements measured by GPA and GAMSAT. Applicants must ensure they register for an appropriate test date, complete the test within the required timeframe, and arrange for their scores to be sent to UOW. Given its role in the selection process, particularly for securing an interview invitation, performing well on Casper is crucial for prospective UOW medical students. Always refer to the official UOW Graduate Medicine admissions information for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding Casper requirements, deadlines, and its role in the selection process for your specific application year.