UK General Surgery ST3 applications

The application process:

The applications are through the ORIEL website. Most medical and surgical specialty applications are now made online through ORIEL.

Individuals who wish to apply must register on the website. Applications are typically around February / March of each year (may be subject to change, so keep checking).

The objective of core surgical training is to get an ST3 training number in the specialty of your choice, preferably in the location of your choice. Realise this early and start making the months count.

Remember that 18 months after starting your core training you will be filling in the application form for the next stage. It goes very fast.

Ranking (sub preferencing is carried out after the application and interviews)

Getting to interview

1) Get a copy of the person specification for your chosen specialty from www.oriel.nhs.uk

2) Look at the essential criteria - you will need these to even be considered for interview.

3) Focus on the desired criteria and see if you can tick off each of those. If you can’t, you need to start addressing these early. Take every opportunity during core training to buff your CV but make sure you finish each project that you start.

4) When you actually fill in the form have the specification beside you and make sure that you show on the form clearly that you meet all of the criteria. If there isn’t a set space on the form for it – get it in somewhere!

You will be scored based on the interviews and a ranking given in the deanery of your choice.