CASPer and Snapshot

Successful completion of CASPer, and Snapshot is mandatory in order to maintain admission eligibility for both the PharmD and CAP program.*

  • CASPer is a 100-120 minute online open-response situational judgement test which assesses for non-cognitive skills and interpersonal characteristics. We believe these skills and characteristics are important for successful students and graduates of our PharmD program.
     
  • Snapshot is a 15-minute one-way interview tool used to highlight applicants' communication skills and motivation for the profession, allowing them to bring their personal statements to life. Snapshot consists of three questions.

*CASPer and Snapshot results are only valid for the current admissions cycle. Applicants who have taken them in previous admissions cycles are therefore required to re-take the test and Snapshot that is specific to the current admission cycle.

CASPer

When you book your CASPer test, it will ask you for a Waterloo ID number. If you are not already a UW student, you will need to first submit your pharmacy application through the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC). Once you have submitted, Waterloo’s Registrar's Office will email you within 2-3 weeks. You will receive your Waterloo ID number and details about how to submit a complete application to be considered eligible for admission consideration.

No studying is required for CASPer, although you may want to reference the Altus Assessments resources listed below to help you prepare.

You will be responsible for finding a quiet environment to take the test, and securing access to a computer with audio capabilities, a webcam, and a reliable Internet connection on your selected test date. The test can be taken practically anywhere that you can satisfy the aforementioned requirements. No exceptions will be provided for applicants unable to take the test online.

CASPer reports will automatically be transmitted to Waterloo, for applicants who have included their Waterloo ID number on their Altus profile.

Snapshot

Snapshot is completed through your TakeAltus account. You will have the opportunity to practice responding to a practice question before submitting responses. There is no set time and place that you are required to complete Snapshot — you are able to complete it at your leisure before, or after you sit for the CASPer test. However, you must record your Snapshot by the supporting documentation deadline. You can reference the Altus Assessments resources listed below to help you prepare.

Please refer to the appropriate application timeline for deadlines:

Snapshot results will automatically be transmitted to Waterloo, for applicants who have included their Waterloo ID number on their Altus profile.

How to complete CASPer and Snapshot

  1. Go to TakeAltus.com to sign up for Altus Suite for CSP-10201 Professional Health Sciences, under your specific country, and register using a piece of government-issued photo ID.
     
  2. Select a Casper test date from the available testing dates and times. Please use an email address that you check regularly and that you have used for your application; there may be updates to the test schedule. To account for identity verification and payment processing timelines, ensure that you register for your test at least 3 days before your preferred test date and time. Last-minute bookings are not recommended.
     
  3. Ensure you have selected University of Waterloo for distribution before the posted distribution deadline.
     
  4. It is recommended but not essential that you complete Snapshot within 14 days of taking CASPer at TakeAltus.com.

Altus Assessments resources