Some Thoughts on McMaster CASPer

What is CASPer?

CASPer stands for Computer-based Assessment for Sampling of Personal characteristics. It is a 90 minutes online test required for all applicants to McMaster. In the 2012-2013 application cycle, there were 12 situational prompts, followed by 3 questions to be answered in 5 minutes. It’s essentially a mini-MMI.

Should I Prepare for CASPer?

CASPer was introduced to the McMaster application process in the 2010/2011 application cycle, consequently there is little information about the process except for what is given by McMaster. There are a number of websites and companies that have taken advantage of this to offer “intensive CASPer preparation” courses. This is completely unnecessary. In my honest opinion, you do not need to prepare for CASPer. This is due to two major factors: 1/ you have very limited time for each response; it’s very difficult to formulate an articulate response within the time frame, most of the time you simply put down what’s immediately on your mind. And that’s the point. 2/ third-party courses do not have more information than you do. Information on CASPer is kept confidential to anyone outside the admissions committee. If you must prepare, read over your CV and go over some past CASPer questions. Anything beyond this is unnecessary. Lastly, when you’re doing CASPer, remember to allocate time for all three questions.