Casper Test for Dental School: What to Expect
Some dental schools ask applicants to take an online test that has no science questions at all. Instead, it presents everyday situations and asks how you would respond. If this is new to you, the format can feel unfamiliar.
That assessment is the Casper test. In this guide, you will learn what the Casper test measures, how its typed and video sections work and how to find out whether your schools require it. You will also learn practical ways to prepare, including how to practice thinking through a situation out loud and in writing. The goal is to walk in calm and ready to show how you reason.
What the Casper test is
Casper is an online situational judgment test from Acuity Insights. It presents short scenarios, often about teamwork, ethics, communication or fairness. You then explain how you would respond and why. Health professions programs use it to learn about qualities such as empathy, professionalism and judgment.
There are no right answers to memorize. Raters look at how you think through each situation and how you consider the people involved.
Casper test format and timing
According to Acuity Insights' format guide, the standard test for the 2026–2027 admission cycle includes 11 scenarios:
- 4 video response scenarios. Each has 2 questions, and you get 1 minute to record each answer.
- 7 typed response scenarios. Each has 2 questions shown together, with 3.5 minutes to type both answers.
- Optional breaks. A 10-minute break follows the video section, and a 5-minute break follows the first 4 typed scenarios.
The total estimated test time is 65 to 85 minutes. Formats can change between cycles, so check Acuity's site before you schedule.
Which dental schools require Casper?
Requirements vary by school and by year. Check each school's admissions page and Acuity's list of participating programs. Book your test date early, since sessions are offered on set dates.
How to prepare for the Casper test
Learn a simple way to think through scenarios
For each scenario, try these steps:
- Identify the people involved and what each might need.
- Name what you do not know. Many scenarios leave details out on purpose.
- Consider a few options before choosing one.
- Explain your choice and how you would follow up.
This structure keeps your answers focused. It also shows that you consider others before acting.
Here is a practice scenario to try: a classmate asks to copy your lab notes because they missed a session for a family emergency. How do you respond? Think about your classmate's situation, the course rules and fairness to other students. Then explain what you would do and how you would follow up. This prompt was written for this guide as practice.
Practice under real time limits
Time pressure is the hardest part for many students. Practice typing two answers in 3.5 minutes. Record yourself answering out loud for 1 minute. Review your answers and look for missing steps, such as forgetting to consider another person's view.
Ethical reasoning shows up in interviews too. Our guide to ethical interview questions offers more practice prompts.
Draw on real experiences
Your own experiences help you respond with empathy. Work, volunteering and team projects all teach you how people react under stress. Time spent with people from different backgrounds builds that understanding further. Our article on cultural awareness while volunteering explores how to listen and adapt in new settings. A dental service learning trip is one way to learn in a new setting. On Smiles Movement trips, students shadow local dental professionals at mobile clinics and help with oral health education for children in partner communities.
Prepare your setup
Casper is taken online. Test your computer, camera, microphone and internet connection in advance. Choose a quiet room and read Acuity's rules about identification and allowed materials.
On test day, give yourself time to settle in before you start. Use the optional breaks to stretch and reset. If one scenario feels hard, finish it as well as you can and move on. Each scenario is a fresh start.
Walk in ready to show how you think
The Casper test rewards clear, fair and thoughtful reasoning. Practice helps you show that under time pressure. If you want to build experiences that deepen your understanding of patients and communities, Smiles Movement can help. Fill out the form or download our brochure to get more information about upcoming programs and trip dates.
Frequently asked questions about the Casper test
How long is the Casper test?
For the 2026–2027 admission cycle, Acuity Insights estimates 65 to 85 minutes for the standard test, including optional breaks.
Can you study for Casper?
You cannot memorize answers, but you can practice. Work on a clear method for scenarios and practice typing and speaking under time limits.
Do all dental schools require Casper?
No. Requirements vary by school and cycle. Check each school's admissions page and Acuity's list of participating programs.