The Casper Situational Judgement Test (SJT) for RACGP AGPT Program Admissions

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) utilizes a Situational Judgement Test (SJT), specifically the Casper test administered by Acuity Insights, as a key component of the selection process for the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) program. This assessment is designed to evaluate essential non-academic qualities and professional characteristics of candidates aspiring to become General Practitioners (GPs) in Australia.

The Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) Program

The AGPT program is the primary pathway for doctors in Australia to gain Fellowship of the RACGP (FRACGP) and/or the RACGP Rural Generalist Fellowship (FRACGP-RG). It is a government-funded program that provides structured postgraduate medical training in various general practice settings across the country, preparing doctors for the diverse challenges of primary healthcare.

Shift to Casper SJT in AGPT Selection

For recent intakes, including the upcoming 2026 AGPT Program, the RACGP has implemented significant changes to its selection process. The Casper Situational Judgement Test has replaced previous national assessment methods like the Candidate Assessment and Applied Knowledge Test (CAAKT) and the national Multiple Mini-Interviews (MMIs). This change aims to streamline the application experience, make it more accessible (as it’s an online test that can be taken from anywhere), and continue to uphold high standards by assessing crucial non-cognitive skills.

Role and Purpose of the Casper SJT

The Casper SJT is a standardized, online, scenario-based assessment. Its primary purpose within the AGPT selection process is to:

• Assess Non-Academic Attributes: Evaluate personal and professional characteristics that are critical for success as a GP but are not typically measured by academic records or clinical knowledge exams.
• Identify Suitable Candidates: Help identify applicants who demonstrate the appropriate judgment, ethical reasoning, communication skills, and interpersonal qualities required for high-quality, patient-centered care.
• Enhance Fairness and Objectivity: Provide a consistent and robust method for evaluating these attributes across a large and diverse applicant pool.

Details of the Casper Test for AGPT Applicants

• Format: The Casper test is delivered online and typically takes approximately 65-85 minutes to complete, including optional breaks. It consists of 11 scenarios.
  • Video-Based Scenarios (4 scenarios): Applicants watch a short video depicting a realistic situation. Following each video, they are presented with two open-ended questions, one at a time. They have one minute to record a video response for each question.
  • Text-Based Scenarios (7 scenarios): Applicants read a short text-based scenario. Following each scenario, they are presented with a set of two open-ended questions, both presented at once. They have 3.5 minutes in total to type their responses to these two questions.
• Content: The scenarios are designed to be relevant to professional life and may be set in clinical or non-clinical contexts. They often involve ethical dilemmas, interpersonal conflicts, patient safety concerns, or challenges related to teamwork and professionalism.
  • Important Note: The Casper test does not assess clinical knowledge or diagnostic skills. While scenarios might be in a healthcare setting, the focus is on how an applicant approaches the situation and the reasoning behind their actions.
• Assessed Competencies: The test is designed to evaluate a range of personal and professional competencies, including:
  • Professionalism: Integrity, ethical decision-making, accountability.
  • Communication: Clearly and empathetically conveying information, active listening.
  • Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively with others, managing interpersonal conflicts.
  • Ethical Reasoning: Navigating moral and ethical dilemmas with sound judgment.
  • Empathy: Demonstrating understanding and compassion.
  • Problem-Solving: Managing complex issues effectively.
  • Resilience and Adaptability: Handling high-pressure situations.
  • Self-Awareness: Understanding one’s own biases and limitations.
  • Motivation: Demonstrating a genuine interest in general practice.
  • Fairness and Equity: Considering diverse perspectives and ensuring equitable treatment.
• Scoring:
  • Each scenario is scored by a different, trained human rater. Raters are typically from diverse backgrounds and are trained to assess the content and reasoning of responses objectively.
  • Applicants do not receive their individual Casper scores. The results are sent directly to the RACGP for use in the selection process.
  • The scoring process is designed to be robust and reliable, providing a holistic view of an applicant’s non-cognitive skills.

Practical Information for AGPT Applicants

• Registration:
  • Applicants must register for the Casper test through the Acuity Insights website (often referred to via takecasper.com or acuityinsights.app).
  • A government-issued photo ID is required for account creation and identity verification.
  • It is crucial to use the same email address for Casper registration as used for the AGPT program application.
  • Register at least three days before the preferred test date to allow for identity verification and payment processing.
• Technical Requirements:
  • A desktop or laptop computer (smartphones and tablets are not supported).
  • The latest version of Chrome or Firefox web browser.
  • A working webcam and microphone (wired inputs or built-in computer microphone/webcam are recommended).
  • A reliable, high-speed internet connection (at least 1.5 Mbps download and upload speed).
• Test Environment:
  • A quiet, private, and well-lit space where the applicant can take the test alone and without interruptions or assistance.
  • It is not recommended to take the test in a healthcare setting due to potential internet firewall issues.
• Preparation:
  • No specific subject matter study is required for Casper.
  • The best preparation is to familiarize yourself with the test format and structure. Acuity Insights provides a full practice test within your account, which includes 11 scenarios and allows you to experience both typed and video response sections.
  • Practice thinking through various ethical and professional dilemmas. Consider different perspectives and the potential consequences of various actions.
  • Focus on clearly articulating your reasoning and decision-making process in your responses.
• Fees:
  • There is a fee to take the Casper test. For the 2026 AGPT intake, the RACGP has announced a reduced application and selection fee of $690, which likely encompasses the Casper test cost. Applicants should verify specific fee details on the RACGP and Acuity Insights websites during the application period.
• Test Dates and Times:
  • Acuity Insights provides a limited number of testing dates and times. Applicants must select a specific date and time to take the test.
  • Assessment dates may be changed, but a fee may apply. Cancellations are typically non-refundable.
• Permitted Items:
  • Applicants can generally have blank paper, a pen/pencil, and a dictionary. Pre-prepared notes are not allowed. Eating or drinking is usually permitted. Refer to the specific Casper Test Rules provided by Acuity Insights.
• Accommodations:
  • Applicants requiring testing accommodations due to a disability or other reasons must submit all necessary forms and supporting documentation to Acuity Insights well in advance of their scheduled test (e.g., 3-4 weeks prior).

Casper SJT in the Broader AGPT Selection Context

While the Casper SJT is a critical national assessment, the overall AGPT selection process may involve further steps. Historically, after the national assessment, successful candidates might proceed to interviews conducted by Regional Training Organisations (RTOs), though the 2026 changes indicate a move away from MMIs at the national level. The exact weighting and role of the Casper score in the final selection and offer process are determined by the RACGP.

Key Takeaways for Applicants

• The Casper SJT is a mandatory online assessment for AGPT selection, focusing on non-academic attributes.
• Familiarization with the test format via the official practice test is the best preparation.
• Ensure all technical requirements are met and a suitable testing environment is secured.
• Register early and pay close attention to deadlines provided by the RACGP and Acuity Insights.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the official RACGP AGPT program website and the Acuity Insights website for the most current and detailed information regarding the Casper SJT, registration, test dates, fees, and specific requirements for their intake year.