Applying to medical school or another health professional program is a complex process, and the CASPer test has become a significant component for many institutions. As part of the Acuity Insights assessments, this situational judgment test (SJT) evaluates key non-cognitive skills like professionalism, ethics, and empathy – qualities essential for a successful healthcare career.
Knowing exactly which programs mandate this test is a critical first step in managing your application timeline, budget, and overall strategy. This guide serves as your definitive resource, offering a detailed and current list of schools that require CASPer for the upcoming application cycle. We cut through the confusion by providing clear, organized lists broken down by country, state/province, and program type.
You will find direct links to each school's official admissions page, specific CASPer deadlines, and a clear distinction between programs where the test is required versus merely recommended. To excel on the CASPer, it's crucial to hone your ability to analyze complex situations and make sound judgments. For practical strategies on strengthening this core competency, consider resources on how to improve critical thinking skills. Our goal is to eliminate the guesswork from your application process, providing a straightforward roadmap to ensure you meet every requirement without any last-minute surprises. Let's get started.
1. Wake Forest University School of Medicine (MD)
Wake Forest University School of Medicine, a private MD program located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has officially integrated the Acuity Insights assessment, which includes the CASPer test, into its admissions process. For the 2025–2026 application cycle, all applicants are required to complete this situational judgment test as part of the school's commitment to a thorough, holistic review. This means the school evaluates your CASPer results alongside traditional metrics like MCAT scores and GPA, as well as your personal experiences and activities.
The admissions website for Wake Forest is a primary resource for applicants, providing clear and direct information about this requirement. Unlike some institutions where the CASPer policy can be ambiguous, Wake Forest explicitly states that the test is mandatory, leaving no room for confusion. This directness is a significant advantage, allowing you to plan your application timeline and budget accordingly.
Key Admissions Details for Wake Forest
Navigating the application process for any medical school requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when applying to Wake Forest with the CASPer requirement in mind.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| CASPer Status | Required for all MD applicants (2025–2026 cycle) |
| Test Window | Refer to the Acuity Insights website for specific test dates available for US Allopathic Medicine (CSP-10101). |
| Fees | Applicants must pay the Acuity Insights fee, which includes CASPer test distribution to one program. Additional fees apply for distribution to more programs. |
| Application Portal | Submit through AMCAS; CASPer scores are sent directly to the school from Acuity Insights. |
Why Wake Forest Stands Out
Wake Forest's curriculum is a major draw, emphasizing an integrated, patient-centered approach from the start. Students get early clinical exposure and are trained in team-based interactions, skills that the CASPer test is designed to assess. The school’s affiliation with Atrium Health provides a vast clinical network, offering diverse patient populations and training environments across multiple campuses.
However, prospective students should be prepared for a highly competitive admissions process with rolling review timelines. The additional requirement of CASPer adds another layer of cost and logistical planning to an already demanding application season. To be successful, it is crucial to understand the format and a good strategy is to prepare by reviewing example scenarios. To get a better feel for the test, you can review some common CASPer test questions and practice your responses.
Official Website: Wake Forest MD Program Application Requirements
2. UT Southwestern Medical School (Dallas, TX)
UT Southwestern Medical School, a large public research institution in Dallas, Texas, has made the Acuity Insights assessment, including the CASPer test, a mandatory component of its admissions process for all MD applicants. The school explicitly requires the test to gain a more complete picture of each candidate, evaluating personal and professional characteristics alongside academic metrics. This makes it a crucial step for anyone applying through the Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS).
A significant benefit for applicants is the transparency of UT Southwestern's admissions website. The school provides a dedicated page with clear, step-by-step instructions and deadlines for the CASPer test, removing ambiguity from the process. This direct approach helps you integrate the test requirement into your application timeline without guesswork, which is especially helpful when managing the distinct TMDSAS schedule.
Key Admissions Details for UT Southwestern
Applying to a top Texas medical school involves unique deadlines and requirements. Here is a summary of what you need to know about the CASPer requirement when applying to UT Southwestern.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| CASPer Status | Required for all MD applicants |
| Test Window | Refer to the Acuity Insights website for test dates available for US Allopathic Medicine (CSP-10101). UT Southwestern specifies its own score receipt deadline. |
| Fees | Applicants are responsible for the Acuity Insights fee, which covers the CASPer test and distribution to one program. Additional fees are required to send scores to other schools. |
| Application Portal | Submit through TMDSAS; CASPer scores are sent directly from Acuity Insights to the admissions office. |
Why UT Southwestern Stands Out
UT Southwestern is known for its strong research foundation, supported by significant NIH funding, and its exceptional clinical training opportunities at world-renowned facilities like Parkland Memorial Hospital. The emphasis on hands-on clinical experience from early in the curriculum aligns with the situational judgment skills that CASPer is intended to measure. The school’s dedication to scientific inquiry and patient care makes it a top choice for aspiring physician-scientists.
However, the admissions process is intensely competitive, and the school has a strong preference for Texas residents, which can be a hurdle for out-of-state applicants. The CASPer scheduling deadlines may also be tight in relation to TMDSAS submission dates, requiring careful planning. To prepare, applicants should ensure their entire application is in order by consulting a detailed medical school application checklist to stay organized and meet all deadlines effectively.
Official Website: UT Southwestern CASPer Information
3. John Sealy School of Medicine at UTMB (Galveston, TX)
The John Sealy School of Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), a public institution in Galveston, Texas, has fully incorporated the Acuity Insights assessments into its admissions process. For the current application cycle, all MD applicants must complete both the CASPer and Duet assessments. This dual requirement underscores the school's focus on evaluating non-cognitive attributes and personal values alongside academic metrics like MCAT scores and GPA, ensuring a more complete applicant profile.
UTMB's admissions website provides explicit details regarding these requirements, stating that an applicant's file is not considered complete until scores for both CASPer and Duet are received. This level of transparency is beneficial for applicants, as it removes any uncertainty about the necessity of the tests. You can confidently integrate these tasks into your application schedule from the beginning.
Key Admissions Details for UTMB
Applying to a Texas medical school involves the TMDSAS portal, and UTMB has its own specific requirements to manage. Here is a clear breakdown of what you need to know about the Acuity Insights assessments when applying to the John Sealy School of Medicine.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Acuity Status | Required for all MD applicants (CASPer and Duet) |
| Test Window | Refer to the Acuity Insights website for specific test dates available for US Allopathic Medicine (CSP-10101). |
| Fees | Applicants must pay the Acuity Insights fee, which covers CASPer, Duet, and distribution to one program. Additional fees apply for more distributions. |
| Application Portal | Submit through TMDSAS; Acuity Insights scores are sent directly to the school. |
Why UTMB Stands Out
UTMB distinguishes itself with a strong mission focused on service, primary care, and population health, especially given its location and expertise in coastal and trauma medicine. The requirement for both CASPer and Duet aligns with this mission, as Duet specifically measures the alignment of your values with the school's institutional priorities. This helps both the admissions committee and you assess program fit.
The downside is that completing two separate Acuity assessments increases the time and financial commitment for applicants. Furthermore, because UTMB uses a rolling review process, those who delay taking their CASPer and Duet tests may be at a disadvantage. To prepare, it is important to understand the traits and skills these tests evaluate; you can learn more about what medical schools look for in candidates to better align your preparation. A strong strategy is to complete all required assessments as early as possible.
Official Website: UTMB MD Program Admission Requirements
4. McGovern Medical School (UTHealth Houston)
McGovern Medical School, a large public institution located in the world-renowned Texas Medical Center in Houston, has made the Acuity Insights assessment, including the CASPer test, a firm part of its admissions process. For the 2025–2026 application cycle, all MD applicants must complete this situational judgment test. The school uses the CASPer score as a component of its holistic review, evaluating it alongside traditional metrics like MCAT and GPA to gain a fuller picture of each candidate's non-academic strengths.
The admissions website for McGovern Medical School is particularly helpful, providing unambiguous guidance on the CASPer requirement. It clearly states the test is mandatory and even provides specific distribution deadlines for the cycle, which is a significant benefit for applicants trying to manage multiple deadlines. This level of clarity eliminates confusion and helps you organize your application timeline effectively.
Key Admissions Details for McGovern
Managing the application process for a high-volume school like McGovern requires careful planning. Here is a breakdown of the key details related to the CASPer requirement.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| CASPer Status | Required for all MD applicants (2025–2026 cycle) |
| Test Window | Refer to the Acuity Insights website for US Allopathic Medicine (CSP-10101) dates. McGovern posts its own distribution deadline on its admissions site. |
| Fees | Applicants must pay the Acuity Insights fee for the test and distribution to one school. Additional fees are required to send scores to more programs. |
| Application Portal | Submit through TMDSAS (Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service); CASPer scores are sent to the school directly. |
Why McGovern Stands Out
The primary draw for many applicants is McGovern's location within the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world. This provides an immense clinical volume and exposure to a diverse patient population and a wide array of medical conditions. The school’s commitment to a holistic review means it values the interpersonal skills that CASPer is designed to measure.
However, prospective students must be ready for an intensely competitive environment due to the high volume of applications McGovern receives. The CASPer test adds another scheduling checkpoint and cost to your application. To perform well, it's wise to practice your response strategies to build confidence before the test day. For further preparation on the admissions journey, you can get some great medical school interview tips that will help you excel beyond the initial screening.
Official Website: McGovern Medical School Application Process
5. UT Tyler School of Medicine (Tyler, TX)
The University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine, a newer public medical program in Tyler, Texas, mandates the full Acuity Insights suite for its admissions process. This includes both the CASPer situational judgment test and the Duet value-alignment assessment. For the 2025–2026 application cycle, all MD applicants must complete these assessments to be considered, reflecting the school’s deep commitment to finding candidates whose personal attributes align with its community-focused mission.
UT Tyler’s admissions website is a model of clarity, offering a transparent applicant checklist with explicit deadlines for both CASPer and Duet. This direct approach removes any guesswork for applicants, allowing for precise planning. The school clearly states that these assessments are required, which helps you organize your timeline and budget for the additional steps involved in the application process.
Key Admissions Details for UT Tyler
Applying to a mission-driven school like UT Tyler means paying close attention to its unique requirements. Here is a breakdown of what you need to know about its Acuity Insights assessment policy.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| CASPer Status | Required for all MD applicants (2025–2026 cycle) |
| Additional Tests | Duet is also required. |
| Test Window | Check the Acuity Insights website for US Allopathic Medicine (CSP-10101) dates; UT Tyler posts its own completion deadlines on its admissions page. |
| Fees | Applicants must cover the Acuity Insights fee, which includes distribution to one program. The fee structure for CASPer plus Duet should be confirmed on the Acuity website. |
| Application Portal | Primary application is submitted via TMDSAS. CASPer and Duet results are sent directly to the school. |
Why UT Tyler Stands Out
As one of the newer medical schools, UT Tyler offers a distinct advantage with its small class sizes and a curriculum built from the ground up to address the specific health needs of East Texas. Its focus on community-embedded training is a central part of its identity, and the use of CASPer and Duet helps the admissions committee identify applicants who are genuinely motivated by primary and community care. This makes it an excellent choice for students passionate about making a direct impact on underserved populations.
However, the requirement of both CASPer and Duet increases the time and financial commitment for applicants. Because the school is newer, it has less long-term outcome data compared to more established institutions. Successfully navigating this process requires a clear understanding of what UT Tyler values, which goes beyond just scores. For more insights into building a strong application, you can explore general advice on how to get into medical school to round out your strategy.
Official Website: UT Tyler School of Medicine Admissions
6. University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine (Burlington, VT)
The University of Vermont's Larner College of Medicine, a public MD program in Burlington, Vermont, explicitly requires the CASPer test for admission. As part of its active-learning curriculum and focus on professionalism, Larner has made the Acuity Insights assessment a mandatory step for all applicants in the 2025–2026 application cycle. This requirement aligns with the school's mission to evaluate candidates on personal and professional attributes, which are considered alongside academic metrics like MCAT scores and GPA.
One of the key benefits for applicants is the clarity provided on the Larner admissions website. The college states that CASPer is the only situational judgment test (SJT) required, specifically noting that applicants do not need to complete Duet. This unambiguous language helps you streamline your application efforts, saving you time and potential confusion about which components of the Acuity Insights suite are necessary.
Key Admissions Details for Larner College of Medicine
Applying to a smaller public program like Larner requires careful planning, especially for out-of-state candidates. Understanding the specific admissions components is critical. Here is a summary of what to expect when applying to the University of Vermont with the CASPer test as a factor.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| CASPer Status | Required for all MD applicants (2025–2026 cycle) |
| Test Window | Refer to the Acuity Insights website for test dates associated with US Allopathic Medicine (CSP-10101). |
| Fees | Applicants are responsible for the Acuity Insights fee, which covers the CASPer test and distribution to one program. Additional fees apply for each subsequent school. |
| Application Portal | Primary application is submitted through AMCAS. CASPer scores must be sent directly from Acuity Insights to the college. |
Why Larner College of Medicine Stands Out
Larner’s educational model is a significant draw for students who thrive in collaborative settings. The curriculum is built on an active-learning pedagogy, with substantial small-group work, early clinical integration, and close faculty engagement. These elements foster the communication and teamwork skills that CASPer aims to measure, making the test a relevant part of the school's holistic review process. The smaller cohort size creates a supportive environment, and its affiliation with the UVM Health Network provides access to a major tertiary care center.
Prospective students should note that admissions are competitive, particularly for the limited out-of-state spots at this public institution. The rural and smaller-city setting of Burlington, while offering a high quality of life, may present a different scope of specialty exposure compared to larger metropolitan areas. To prepare, ensure your CASPer score reflects the professional competencies Larner values. A helpful step is to become familiar with the test format and practice with sample questions, which can be found through resources dedicated to situational judgment test preparation.
Official Website: UVM Larner College of Medicine Admissions Requirements
7. Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (ZSOM)
The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (ZSOM), a private MD program in Hempstead, New York, has made the Acuity Insights assessment, which includes the CASPer test, a mandatory component of its application. For the 2025–2026 application cycle, all prospective students must complete this situational judgment test. ZSOM uses the results as part of its holistic applicant review, evaluating them alongside academic metrics, experiences, and interview performance to find candidates aligned with its mission.
The admissions website for ZSOM is a vital resource, clearly outlining the CASPer requirement with specific dates for both Early Decision and regular applicants. This level of transparency is a major benefit, as it removes ambiguity and helps you schedule your test well in advance. Unlike schools with vague policies, ZSOM's direct approach ensures you can confidently plan your application timeline and associated costs.
Key Admissions Details for ZSOM
Applying to medical school requires meticulous organization, especially for schools that require CASPer. Here is a summary of what to expect when applying to the Zucker School of Medicine.
| Requirement Details | Information |
|---|---|
| CASPer Status | Required for all MD applicants (2025–2026 cycle) |
| Test Window | Specific deadlines are posted for both Early Decision and regular MD applicants. Refer to the ZSOM and Acuity Insights websites. |
| Fees | Applicants are responsible for the Acuity Insights fee, which covers the test and distribution to one program. Additional fees apply for more distributions. |
| Application Portal | Primary application is submitted via AMCAS. CASPer scores are transmitted directly from Acuity Insights to ZSOM. |
Why ZSOM Stands Out
One of the most distinctive features of ZSOM's curriculum is the early, hands-on clinical immersion. All first-year students become certified New York State Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and work shifts on Northwell Health ambulances. This practical experience directly connects to the skills evaluated by CASPer, such as professionalism, ethics, and teamwork in high-pressure situations. The school's partnership with Northwell Health also provides an extensive clinical network across Long Island and New York City.
On the other hand, applicants should consider the financial commitment. The cost of private medical education combined with the high cost of living in the NYC metropolitan area can be substantial. Furthermore, while ZSOM is clear about requiring CASPer, it's wise to check the admissions site each cycle for any changes to their policy regarding other Acuity Insights components like Duet or Snapshot. Making sure you have the most current information is key to a successful application.
Official Website: Zucker School of Medicine Admission Requirements
CASPer Requirement Comparison: 7 Medical Schools
| School | Assessment Requirements 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes ⭐ | Ideal Use Cases 📊 | Key Advantages 💡 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wake Forest University School of Medicine (MD) | Casper (Acuity Insights) required for 2025–26 | Single SJT; added fee and scheduling logistics | Supports holistic review; assesses non‑cognitive skills | Applicants seeking integrated, early clinical training | Clear published Casper guidance; large integrated health system |
| UT Southwestern Medical School (Dallas, TX) | Casper required for all MD applicants | Single SJT; strict deadlines (TMDSAS timeline considerations) | Used to screen and inform selection; complements academics | Applicants targeting research‑rich, tertiary training (TX applicants competitive) | Transparent instructions; strong NIH‑funded research and clinical sites |
| John Sealy School of Medicine at UTMB (Galveston, TX) | Casper and Duet required (both Acuity assessments) | Two SJTs; higher cost and time; mandatory for file completion | Explicit screening tool with clear weight in review | Applicants aligned with service, population health, coastal/trauma exposure | Clear requirements/deadlines; mission‑oriented program |
| McGovern Medical School (UTHealth Houston) | Casper required for all MD applicants with cycle‑specific deadlines | Single SJT; scheduling checkpoint amid high application volume | Contributes to holistic review; helps select clinically ready applicants | Applicants seeking high clinical volume in Texas Medical Center | Clear timing guidance; extensive clinical volume across TMC hospitals |
| UT Tyler School of Medicine (Tyler, TX) | Casper and Duet required with published completion deadlines | Two SJTs; increased cost/time; newer school context | Supports mission‑driven selection for community care | Applicants focused on community‑embedded primary care and small cohorts | Transparent deadlines; mission alignment and individualized training |
| University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine (Burlington, VT) | Casper required (explicitly the only required SJT) | Single SJT; lower assessment complexity than dual‑requirement schools | Screens for professionalism and communication in holistic review | Applicants valuing small‑group active learning and close faculty engagement | Unambiguous requirement wording; supportive learning environment |
| Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell (ZSOM) | Casper required (Early Decision and regular cycle logistics posted) | Single SJT; clear dates but consider additional application costs and NYC living | Contributes to holistic review; screens non‑cognitive traits | Applicants seeking early EMT training and broad Northwell clinical network | Clear cycle‑specific dates; early hands‑on clinical immersion and extensive sites |
Ace Your Application: Next Steps After CASPer
Navigating the medical school application process can feel like a complex puzzle, and understanding which programs require the CASPer test is a critical piece. This guide has provided a detailed breakdown of the schools that require CASPer, clarifying which programs mandate it, which only recommend it, and where it might be waived. Having this specific information for institutions like Wake Forest, UT Southwestern, and the Zucker School of Medicine allows you to build a precise, strategic application timeline.
Remember, the CASPer test is just one data point in a much larger picture. Admissions committees are looking at you as a whole person. Your academic performance, MCAT score, personal statement, and the depth of your experiences are all fundamental components of your application. The key insight from this exhaustive list is that preparation and planning are your greatest assets. Knowing these requirements upfront prevents last-minute scrambles and allows you to dedicate the right amount of time to each application component.
Turning Knowledge into Action
With this list of schools that require CASPer in hand, your next steps should be clear and deliberate. Don't just see CASPer as another hurdle; view it as an opportunity to showcase the personal and professional characteristics that don't appear on a transcript.
- Create a Master Calendar: Immediately map out the CASPer test dates and distribution deadlines for every school on your list. Cross-reference these with your secondary application deadlines to avoid conflicts and ensure timely submission.
- Budget Accordingly: Factor in the costs for the CASPer test itself and the fee for each program you send your score to. Planning this now prevents financial surprises later in the cycle.
- Focus on Articulation, Not Memorization: CASPer preparation isn't about learning a script. It's about practicing how you think through ethical dilemmas and articulate your reasoning. Use practice questions to get comfortable explaining your "why" under strict time constraints.
Key Takeaway: The CASPer test evaluates your thought process, not your ability to find a single "correct" answer. Focus your preparation on clearly and concisely communicating your ethical framework and problem-solving approach.
Excelling in the Video Component
A growing part of the CASPer assessment, and situational judgment tests in general, is the video response section. This element aims to capture your genuine communication style and professionalism beyond written text. To succeed here, it’s not enough to just think of a good answer; you must also present it effectively on camera.
Preparation for this section is distinct from the typed responses. Consider practicing your delivery and becoming comfortable with the format. For applicants wanting to build confidence in this area, exploring detailed guides for mastering your on-demand video interview can provide practical tips on everything from setting up your environment to conveying professionalism through the lens. This will help you present the most polished and authentic version of yourself.
Your journey to medical school is a marathon, not a sprint. By using this guide to the schools that require CASPer, you've taken a significant step in organizing your application strategy. Now, it's time to execute that strategy with confidence, knowing you are prepared for every requirement.
Navigating the nuances of CASPer and building a standout application can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. The expert admissions consultants at Ace Med Boards specialize in helping pre-meds, IMGs, and residency applicants craft compelling narratives and prepare for high-stakes assessments. Visit Ace Med Boards to learn how personalized guidance can help you secure a spot at your dream medical school.
