Casper SJT and Monash University: Teacher Education Admission Requirements

Monash University, like several other Australian institutions, incorporates situational judgement testing into its admissions process, but its approach differs slightly, particularly concerning the Casper test. The primary application of SJTs at Monash is for entry into its Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses, aiming to assess non-academic suitability for the teaching profession.  

Monash’s Preferred SJT: The MTeST

It’s crucial to understand that Monash University has developed and utilizes its own situational judgement test called the Monash Teaching Suitability Test (MTeST). This test is specifically designed by Monash to evaluate the personal attributes, motivations, and understanding of the teaching profession deemed essential for success in their ITE programs and as future educators. Monash generally encourages applicants to its ITE courses to sit the MTeST as the primary means of fulfilling the non-academic selection criteria.  

Casper as an Accepted Alternative

While MTeST is the preferred pathway, Monash University does accept the Casper test as an alternative way for applicants to meet the non-academic requirements for entry into its ITE courses. This provides flexibility for applicants who may be applying to multiple institutions requiring Casper, allowing them to potentially sit one test for several applications.  

Which Monash Courses Accept Casper?

The acceptance of Casper typically applies to Monash’s main undergraduate teaching degrees, such as the various streams within the Bachelor of Education (Honours) program (e.g., Primary, Secondary, Early Childhood, Health & Physical Education).

Applicants must verify the specific non-academic selection requirements directly on the Monash University course page for their intended degree and entry year, as requirements can evolve. The course information will clarify whether Casper is accepted and outline the process if an applicant chooses this option over the MTeST.

Role in the Admissions Process

Whether an applicant completes the MTeST or the Casper test, the purpose is largely the same: to satisfy the mandatory non-academic selection criteria for ITE courses. This component functions primarily as a hurdle requirement.

• Applicants must successfully complete either the MTeST or an accepted Casper test by the relevant deadlines.
• Failure to meet this non-academic requirement, regardless of academic scores (like ATAR), will typically make an application ineligible.
• The result from either test confirms that the applicant meets the minimum suitability standards set by Monash for its teaching programs. Unlike some medical admissions processes where SJT scores might be explicitly weighted, at Monash for ITE, it’s more about demonstrating suitability rather than achieving a specific rank based on the SJT score itself.

Logistics: Casper vs. MTeST

• Casper: If choosing Casper, applicants must:
  • Register directly via the Acuity Insights website (takecasper.com or acuityinsights.app).  
  • Sit the test on one of the dates specified as acceptable by Acuity Insights (ensure it aligns with Monash’s deadlines).
  • Select Monash University for score distribution during registration.
  • Pay the associated fees for the test and score distribution (unlike Deakin, Monash does not typically cover Casper fees).
• MTeST: If choosing Monash’s preferred MTeST:
  • Registration and completion are usually integrated directly into the Monash application process (often via VTAC for undergraduate entry or direct application portals).
  • Specific instructions, dates, and potential costs (if any) are provided by Monash during the application period.

Casper and Other Monash Programs (e.g., Medicine)

It is important to reiterate that the acceptance of Casper at Monash is largely confined to its Initial Teacher Education programs. For other highly competitive programs like the Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (MD), Monash requires the UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand) and interviews as key selection components, not the Casper test.  

Based on the provided information about Monash University’s approach to Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs) for its Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses, Casper mock tests offer specific benefits for candidates who choose to sit Casper instead of Monash’s preferred MTeST:

1. Meeting the Mandatory Hurdle via the Casper Pathway:
   • Monash Context: The text confirms that applicants must satisfy a non-academic requirement by successfully completing either the Monash Teaching Suitability Test (MTeST) or the Casper test. Failure means ineligibility.  
   • Mock Test Benefit: If an applicant chooses Casper (perhaps for flexibility if applying to other institutions), practice is essential to ensure they can successfully navigate this specific test. Mock tests help candidates become proficient enough with the Casper format and demands to pass this mandatory hurdle for Monash ITE admission.
2. Familiarization with the Casper Test Format:
   • Monash Context: While Monash has its own MTeST, Casper has a distinct format involving video and text scenarios with timed, typed responses, administered via the Acuity Insights platform.
   • Mock Test Benefit: Casper mock tests allow candidates opting for this route to become thoroughly familiar with the specific interface, types of scenarios (video/text), question structure, and timing constraints unique to Casper. This prevents confusion and ensures they are prepared for the test they will actually be taking, which differs from the MTeST experience.  
3. Demonstrating Teaching Suitability within the Casper Framework:
   • Monash Context: Both MTeST and Casper aim to assess non-academic suitability for teaching, evaluating attributes like communication, empathy, ethics, and resilience.  
   • Mock Test Benefit: Practicing with Casper mock tests helps candidates understand how to best showcase these teaching-relevant attributes through the lens of Casper scenarios and questions. They learn to articulate their reasoning, problem-solving approaches, and ethical considerations in a way that aligns effectively with the Casper assessment style.
4. Developing Casper-Specific Time Management:
   • Monash Context: Casper requires responses within strict time limits.  
   • Mock Test Benefit: Mock tests simulate Casper’s specific timing (e.g., 5 minutes for 3 typed questions). This practice is crucial for developing the speed and efficiency needed to think critically and type coherent responses within the time allowed for Casper, which may differ from the MTeST timing.  
5. Building Confidence in the Chosen Alternative:
   • Monash Context: Applicants actively choose between Monash’s preferred MTeST and the accepted alternative, Casper.  
   • Mock Test Benefit: For those choosing Casper, dedicated practice builds confidence in their ability to handle that specific test. It alleviates potential uncertainty about opting for an alternative pathway and helps them approach the test with a more assured mindset.

Conclusion

Monash University uses situational judgement testing to assess non-academic suitability for its Initial Teacher Education courses. While Monash has its own preferred test, the MTeST, it accepts the Casper test as an alternative. Applicants to courses like the Bachelor of Education (Honours) can choose either test to meet this mandatory hurdle requirement. However, Monash encourages the use of MTeST. Applicants choosing Casper must manage registration, fees, and score distribution via Acuity Insights. Casper is generally not used for admiUnderstanding Casper and Monash University’s Teacher Education Selection Process

Monash University uses Situational Judgement Tests (SJTs) to assess the non-academic suitability of applicants seeking admission to its Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs. These assessments help determine whether prospective teachers demonstrate the personal qualities, interpersonal skills, professional judgement and motivation necessary for a successful teaching career.

For the 2027 admissions cycle, Monash University recognises two assessment pathways:

• Monash Teaching Suitability Test (MTeST): A free, university-developed assessment specifically designed for applicants to Monash teacher education programs.
• Casper Situational Judgement Test: An externally administered assessment delivered by Acuity Insights that can also satisfy Monash’s non-academic admission requirements.

Monash encourages applicants to complete the MTeST but continues to accept Casper as an alternative. Applicants may also complete both assessments, with Monash using the higher result from the same admissions cycle when determining whether the applicant satisfies the non-academic requirement.

1. Monash Teaching Suitability Test (MTeST)

The MTeST was introduced by Monash University in August 2023 to provide applicants with a more accessible and flexible alternative to Casper.

It assesses attributes associated with effective teaching, including motivation, communication, resilience, willingness to learn, conscientiousness, organisation and planning.

The assessment has the following features:

• Seven open-ended questions requiring short written responses.
• Approximately 15 minutes to complete.
• Two minutes allowed for each question.
• Available online, 24 hours a day, without advance booking.
• Free for applicants.
• Up to three attempts permitted per admissions cycle.

MTeST results are normally communicated within two to three weeks. The assessment is recognised only by Monash University and cannot be used to satisfy the admission requirements of other universities.

Monash advises applicants to complete the test early to allow sufficient time for processing.

2. Casper: An Accepted Alternative for Monash Teacher Education

The Casper Test is an online, open-response situational judgement assessment administered by Acuity Insights.

Unlike traditional academic entrance examinations, Casper does not primarily assess subject knowledge. Instead, it evaluates how applicants interpret complex interpersonal situations, consider competing perspectives and exercise professional judgement.

For prospective teachers, Casper provides an opportunity to demonstrate qualities such as empathy, fairness, communication, ethical reasoning, resilience, collaboration and responsible decision-making.

Casper may be particularly useful for applicants applying to several universities that recognise the assessment, potentially reducing the need to complete separate non-academic tests for each institution.

Importantly, Monash confirms that Casper results can be used to meet the non-academic selection requirements for its relevant ITE programs. Applicants must still meet the academic and other entry requirements for their chosen degree.

3. Casper vs MTeST: Key Differences for 2027

The following comparison reflects Monash University’s published admissions information.

Feature	Casper	MTeST
Administrator	Acuity Insights	Monash University
Cost	AUD $55	Free
Test duration	65–85 minutes in Monash’s published comparison	Approximately 15 minutes
Response format	Video and typed responses	Typed responses
Availability	Scheduled test dates	Online, 24/7
Attempts	Once per admissions cycle	Up to three per cycle
Accepted by	Participating institutions	Monash only
Purpose	Non-academic suitability	Non-academic suitability

Important format update: The standard Casper assessment was shortened for the 2025–2026 application cycle to 11 scenarios: four video-response scenarios and seven typed-response scenarios. Each scenario contains two questions. Video questions allow one minute per response, while typed scenarios allow 3.5 minutes for both questions combined.

However, Acuity Insights explicitly states that Australian Teacher Education programs may use a shorter Casper version with fewer scenarios and reduced testing time. Applicants should therefore confirm the format of the specific Australian Teacher Education test they register for rather than assuming the standard 11-scenario structure applies.

4. Which Monash University Courses Accept Casper?

The Casper and MTeST pathways apply to Monash Initial Teacher Education programs requiring non-academic suitability assessment.

These include Bachelor of Education (Honours) specialisations such as Early Childhood and Primary Education, Primary Education, Primary and Secondary Education, Health and Physical Education, and Inclusive and Special Education.

Relevant Education double degrees, including combinations with Arts, Business, Science, Music and Fine Art, are also covered.

At postgraduate level, applicable Master of Teaching specialisations include Primary Education, Early Childhood and Primary Education, Primary and Secondary Education, and Secondary Education.

Important exception: Monash University’s Master of Teaching in Early Childhood Education (D60011) does not require Casper or MTeST. Admission is based on the applicable academic and English-language requirements.

Applicants should consult the latest course-specific entry criteria before registering for a test.

5. How Casper Results Affect Admission to Monash

Non-academic suitability testing is a mandatory admission requirement for most Monash Initial Teacher Education programs.

Applicants must demonstrate that they meet Monash’s suitability standards, regardless of whether they choose Casper or MTeST.

A strong ATAR or university academic record does not automatically compensate for failing to satisfy a mandatory non-academic requirement.

Casper and MTeST are therefore important components of the selection process, alongside academic eligibility and other course-specific requirements.

Monash assesses Casper results against its own institutional standards. Consequently, a result acceptable to one university may not necessarily meet the suitability threshold applied by another.

The university also confirms that applicants who complete both assessments during the same admissions cycle will have their higher result considered.

Completing both tests can therefore provide an additional opportunity to demonstrate suitability, although neither assessment guarantees a university offer.

6. Casper and MTeST Deadlines for 2027 Entry

Applicants seeking entry in 2027 should pay particular attention to the following Monash-published dates.

Offer consideration	Casper deadline	MTeST deadline
December 2026 round	8 December 2026, 7 pm	8 December 2026, 11:59 pm
Early January 2027 round	8 December 2026, 7 pm	Check applicable offer-round instructions
Late January 2027 round	5 January 2027, 7 pm	5 January 2027, 11:59 pm
Early February 2027 round	19 January 2027, 7 pm	19–22 January 2027, 11:59 pm

All times are Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT). Dates relate to Monash’s published VTAC admissions guidance and may differ for other application pathways.

Monash identifies 19 January 2027 as the final Casper test date for this intake. For MTeST, applicants completing the assessment after 22 January 2027 may not be considered for an offer because places are limited.

Applicants should always verify assessment dates, score processing requirements and the deadlines relevant to their application pathway.

7. How to Register for Casper

Applicants choosing Casper should register directly through the official Acuity Insights website.

During registration, applicants should select the appropriate Australian Teacher Education assessment, confirm their undergraduate or postgraduate application category and ensure that Monash University is included among the institutions receiving their results.

Applicants will generally need government-issued photo identification and their VTAC ID or Monash Student ID, depending on their application pathway.

Casper is administered on scheduled dates, with only one attempt permitted per admissions cycle. The current fee published by Monash is AUD $55, which is non-refundable.

Candidates should complete registration well ahead of the relevant deadline and verify their computer, webcam, microphone and internet connection before test day.

8. Why Practise Casper Mock Tests for Monash University?

Although Casper assesses personal and professional attributes rather than memorised academic knowledge, preparation can help candidates become familiar with the test structure, organise their thoughts and respond effectively under time pressure.

Monash University encourages applicants to complete the official Casper practice assessment and become comfortable responding on camera.

Additional realistic mock tests can offer valuable opportunities to develop the following skills.

Understanding the Casper Test Format

Casper includes scenarios involving ethical dilemmas, interpersonal conflict, competing responsibilities and complex decisions.

Mock assessments help candidates practise interpreting scenarios, identifying relevant concerns and developing responses appropriate to the situation.

For teacher education applicants, these scenarios may involve communication challenges, cultural sensitivity, confidentiality, professional boundaries, teamwork and fairness.

Developing Ethical and Professional Judgement

Effective Casper responses require more than simply identifying the most obvious course of action.

Candidates should demonstrate an ability to consider different perspectives, recognise uncertainty, respond with empathy and justify decisions using balanced reasoning.

Mock tests can help applicants practise evaluating situations without making assumptions or rushing to judgement.

Improving Communication and Response Structure

Casper requires candidates to communicate their reasoning within strict time limits.

Regular practice may help candidates develop clear and concise responses that identify the central issue, acknowledge relevant perspectives, propose practical actions and explain their reasoning.

Candidates should aim for authentic, thoughtful answers rather than memorised scripts.

Strengthening Time Management

Timed mock tests help applicants develop confidence in both spoken and written responses.

For the standard Casper format, candidates must manage two video questions within separate one-minute recording periods or two typed questions within a combined 3.5-minute response period.

Practice can help reduce hesitation, unnecessary repetition and incomplete answers.

Candidates applying to Monash should verify whether their booked Australian Teacher Education assessment uses the shorter format.

Demonstrating Teaching-Related Competencies

Casper preparation for aspiring teachers should focus on the non-academic attributes relevant to professional teaching practice.

Competency	Example of what candidates should demonstrate
Communication	Listening respectfully and explaining decisions clearly
Empathy	Recognising another person’s feelings and circumstances
Ethical reasoning	Considering fairness, responsibilities and potential consequences
Collaboration	Working constructively with colleagues and resolving disagreements
Equity and inclusion	Respecting cultural differences and diverse learning needs
Resilience	Responding constructively to setbacks and criticism
Professionalism	Maintaining confidentiality, accountability and appropriate boundaries
Problem-solving	Identifying practical, proportionate and responsible solutions
Self-awareness	Recognising personal limitations and seeking feedback
Motivation to teach	Understanding the responsibilities and values of the profession

These competencies provide a useful framework for structured Casper preparation, although they should not be interpreted as an official Monash scoring rubric.

9. How Casper Mock Tests Can Support Your Preparation

A comprehensive preparation program should help candidates practise different types of realistic situations, receive constructive feedback and improve how they express their reasoning.

Effective preparation may include timed video and written responses, scenario-based exercises, ethical decision-making practice, communication techniques and opportunities to reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of previous answers.

Candidates should particularly focus on demonstrating empathy, professional judgement and an ability to respond thoughtfully when information is incomplete or several competing interests must be considered.

Casper preparation is not about memorising perfect answers. It is about learning to demonstrate clear, balanced and professional judgement under time pressure.

10. Does Monash University Require Casper for Medicine?

Casper acceptance for Monash Initial Teacher Education does not mean the same assessment applies to other university programs.

Monash’s standard domestic undergraduate medical admission pathway uses academic selection criteria, UCAT ANZ and interviews rather than Casper. Other medicine pathways have their own requirements.

Applicants should check the admission criteria for their specific course instead of assuming that an SJT accepted for teacher education is accepted for medicine or other health programs.

11. Prepare for Casper with Confidence

If you are applying to Monash University or another Australian institution that accepts Casper, becoming familiar with the test can help you approach the assessment more confidently.

Structured Casper preparation can help you:

• Practise realistic ethical and interpersonal scenarios.
• Develop stronger written and video-response skills.
• Improve time management under assessment conditions.
• Understand how to demonstrate empathy, fairness and professional judgement.
• Identify areas requiring further development through feedback and reflection.

By practising realistic scenarios and improving the clarity of your responses, you can approach Casper with greater familiarity and confidence.

Enrol in Casper SJT Preparation Today

Prepare for your Casper assessment with scenario-based practice, structured mock tests and practical strategies designed to strengthen your situational judgement and communication skills.

Build your confidence. Strengthen your judgement. Prepare for Casper.ssion to other Monash programs like Medicine. Always consult the official Monash University course admission pages for the definitive requirements and procedures for your specific intended course and entry year.