Which Medical Schools Require the CASPer Test in 2025?
Over 40 medical schools across North America now require or accept CASPer as part of their admissions process. This comprehensive list includes all programs requiring CASPer in 2025, with specific requirements, deadlines, and how each school uses CASPer scores in their evaluation process.
📊 Quick Statistics
Canadian MD Programs
US MD Programs
DO Programs
Other Health Programs
Canadian Medical Schools (MD Programs)
All Canadian MD Programs Require CASPer
Canada was the first country to widely adopt CASPer, and it's now mandatory for all 17 medical schools. Canadian schools typically place high weight on CASPer scores in their admissions process.
English-Language Programs
- University of Alberta
- University of British Columbia
- University of Calgary
- Dalhousie University
- Memorial University
- McMaster University
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine
- Queen's University
- University of Saskatchewan
- University of Toronto
- Western University
French-Language Programs
- Université Laval
- Université de Montréal
- Université de Sherbrooke
- University of Ottawa (bilingual)
- McGill University (bilingual)
- University of Manitoba (some streams)
🍁 Canadian School Highlights
McMaster University
Pioneer in CASPer adoption. CASPer score heavily weighted alongside GPA and interview. Known for problem-based learning curriculum.
University of Toronto
Highly competitive program. CASPer used for initial screening. Strong emphasis on research and clinical excellence.
University of Ottawa
Bilingual program with separate French and English streams. CASPer required for both language tracks.
Preparation tip: Canadian schools expect high CASPer performance. Use CasperCoach's Canadian-focused scenarios to understand cultural and healthcare system nuances.
US MD Programs Requiring CASPer
Growing Adoption in US Medical Schools
While not as widespread as in Canada, an increasing number of US MD programs are incorporating CASPer into their admissions process, particularly those emphasizing holistic review and professional competencies.
Confirmed US MD Programs (2025)
- New York Medical College - Required for all applicants
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine - Required
- Duquesne University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Required
- Cooper Medical School of Rowan University - Required
- Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine - Required
- California University of Science and Medicine - Required
- University of Washington (WWAMI) - Some tracks
- Texas A&M Health Science Center - Pilot program
Schools Considering CASPer (2025-2026)
- Several California medical schools
- Additional Texas medical schools
- Northeast corridor programs
- Schools with mission-driven admissions
Note: Requirements change annually. Check CasperCoach's updated school database for the most current information.
DO Programs Requiring CASPer
Osteopathic Medical Schools
Many DO programs have adopted CASPer, particularly those emphasizing holistic patient care and professional development. The osteopathic philosophy aligns well with CASPer's competency-based assessment.
DO Programs Requiring CASPer
- A.T. Still University (KCOM)
- A.T. Still University (SOMA)
- Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Campbell University (CUCOM)
- Des Moines University (DMU-COM)
- Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Kansas City University
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Lincoln Memorial University (DeBusk)
- Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Midwestern University (Arizona)
- Midwestern University (Illinois)
- Nova Southeastern University
- Oklahoma State University
- Pacific Northwest University
- Rocky Vista University
⚠️ Important Notes for DO Applicants
Requirement Variations
Some DO programs require CASPer for all applicants, while others use it only for certain applicant pools or as an optional component.
Rolling Admissions Impact
Many DO programs have rolling admissions. Taking CASPer early in the cycle can provide an advantage in the holistic review process.
Mission Alignment
DO programs often emphasize service, empathy, and holistic care - competencies that CASPer directly assesses. Strong performance can significantly strengthen your application.
Other Health Professional Programs
Beyond Medical School
CASPer's use has expanded beyond medical schools to other health professional programs that value professional competencies and ethical reasoning in their applicants.
Nursing Programs
- McMaster University (Nursing)
- University of Toronto (Nursing)
- Several accelerated BSN programs
- Graduate nursing programs
Other Health Programs
- Physician Assistant programs
- Veterinary schools
- Pharmacy programs
- Physical therapy programs
- Occupational therapy programs
How Schools Use CASPer Scores
Integration Methods
Screening Tool (Most Common)
Schools use CASPer as an initial filter, typically requiring minimum 2nd or 3rd quartile performance to advance to secondary applications or interviews.
- Reduces application volume for holistic review
- Ensures baseline professional competencies
- Complements academic metrics (GPA/MCAT)
Holistic Review Component
CASPer scores are considered alongside all other application components in a comprehensive evaluation process.
- Weighted with GPA, test scores, experiences
- Provides insight into professional readiness
- Can compensate for weaker academic metrics
Interview Preparation
Some schools use CASPer performance to inform interview questions or identify areas for deeper exploration during interviews.
- Tailored interview experiences
- Focus on competency development
- Consistency assessment across evaluation methods
📈 Trends in CASPer Adoption
Growing Acceptance
More schools adopt CASPer each year as research demonstrates its predictive validity for clinical performance and professionalism.
- 5-10 new programs annually
- Expansion beyond North America
- Integration with other assessment tools
Future Predictions
Experts predict continued growth in CASPer adoption, particularly as medical education emphasizes competency-based assessment.
- More US MD programs likely to adopt
- Potential integration with MCAT or other assessments
- Expansion to residency applications
Stay updated: Requirements change frequently. Use CasperCoach's real-time school database for the most current information.
Application Strategy by School Type
Tailored Preparation Approaches
For Canadian Applicants
- CASPer is mandatory - no exceptions
- Aim for 4th quartile for competitive programs
- Understand Canadian healthcare system context
- Practice with culturally relevant scenarios
- Consider French CASPer for bilingual programs
For US MD Applicants
- Research specific school requirements carefully
- Strong CASPer can differentiate your application
- Focus on US healthcare system scenarios
- Understand each school's mission and values
- Consider taking CASPer even for non-requiring schools
For DO Applicants
- Emphasize osteopathic principles in responses
- Highlight holistic, patient-centered thinking
- Demonstrate service orientation and empathy
- Understand DO philosophy and mission
- Take CASPer early due to rolling admissions
📅 Important Deadlines and Timing
General Timeline
- Early Planning: Research school requirements by January
- Registration: Register for CASPer 3-4 weeks before test date
- Test Dates: Multiple dates available May through January
- Score Distribution: Automatic to designated schools
- Application Integration: Scores available 2-3 weeks post-test
School-Specific Deadlines
Each school sets its own CASPer deadline, typically 2-4 weeks before their application deadline. Some key considerations:
- Canadian schools: Usually September-October deadlines
- US schools: Varies widely, often November-January
- DO programs: May have earlier deadlines due to rolling admissions
🎯 Ready to Apply to CASPer Schools?
With over 40 medical schools now requiring CASPer, strong performance on this test is essential for competitive applications. Don't let CASPer be the barrier between you and your dream medical school.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to take CASPer if I'm only applying to non-requiring schools?
A: While not required, taking CASPer can strengthen your application and provide flexibility if you decide to apply to additional schools later.
Q: Can I send my CASPer scores to schools after taking the test?
A: Yes, you can distribute scores to additional schools for a fee, but you must designate schools before taking the test for free distribution.
Q: How often do school requirements change?
A: Requirements can change annually. Always check school websites and admissions requirements for the most current information before applying.
Q: Is there a difference between CASPer for different program types?
A: The test format is the same, but you select your program type when registering, which may influence scenario selection and score distribution.
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