It is important not to assume that the process is the same as the year before. Each year we review feedback and implement improvements. Go by published guidance and resources on our website and not hearsay or unofficial sources e.g. forums, blogs etc.
For 2025 we can confirm:
The supporting information section of the application will be broken down into 3 sections and have a slightly bigger word count; 1250 words instead of 1000. Full information will be provided in the application form and guidance.
Posts will initially be advertised by region and then specific information for each post will be published in plenty of time for location choices. The specific post information will include the likely university provider.
Interviews will be competitive and online.
You can select 1 chosen preference (which is the specialty you would like to train in) as part of your initial application and applicants successfully shortlisted later select and rank sub-preferences for as many locations/employers as there are available.
You can choose as many sub-preferences/locations as you would be able to work at. You must ensure that you only choose locations you are willing to train at for the full duration of the programme.
Your chosen specialty should be relevant to your choice of future career and your academic qualifications. Applicants can only apply under 1 specialty therefore before you apply to the STP, do as much research as possible to ensure you choose the specialty you really want to follow. Read more about the individual specialties on the Health Careers website and about the STP curricula in the Curriculum Library.
This is only required once applicants have been shortlisted. Once you have selected your choice(s) by sliding them to the wanted column of the sub-preference page, press save. You can come back and edit this section of the application up until the sub-preference deadline. There is no submit button.
Unfortunately, due to the amount of applications we receive it is not possible to provide feedback. We would welcome any future applications from you.
Only upload documents when prompted to by Oriel. You will only be prompted to upload documents based on the answers you provide. For example, if you require special circumstances or reasonable adjustments you will need to attach your evidence.
No, when you accept an offer of a place on the STP this is your commitment to train at that location for the full duration of the programme. You should ensure in accepting the offer that you have considered the level of support you may need if training away from family and friends, and not expect to be moved to a preferred location in the event there are challenges with relocating to a new area.
Yes, we would welcome further applications as long as you meet the entry requirements.
No, your application will be in competition with a different set of applications.
Yes, you can detail any voluntary work or work experience is this section. You must however, indicate this is non-paid work.
We do unless there are unexpected circumstances or delays. Where these occur we always update applicants as timely as possible. We do need to ensure that our processes are fully complete and checked before we release outcomes.
No, applications will not close early. However, try to avoid submitting your application at the last minute. Typically, most applications are submitted in the last 48 hours, which slows the system down due to high volumes of traffic. Under no circumstances will late applications be considered.
Yes, this is the person specification for all specialties.
We use direct messaging in Oriel to contact you about the progress of your application. We recommend that you regularly check your Oriel account to stay informed. We may also use the email address supplied to us, but your main source of information throughout will be Oriel.
Yes, we would recommend regularly saving your application.
No. Deferrals can only be considered for statutory reasons such as maternity. As part of the application you are asked to declare that you are available to start in the coming September.
Ensure you read all the guidance documents. Tell us how you meet the requirements in the reflective statement. Review the timescales on the School’s website and ensure you check your email junk folder. With the SJT ensure you are free from interruptions and ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Mainly due to the volume of applications; we had over 7000 applications last year.
We recruit to over 30 different specialties, each requiring specialist panels to support the process. Specialists involved are usually clinical staff who support STP recruitment in their time in addition to their important day jobs.
The STP commences in September, therefore this is the aim for the completion of recruitment for some applicants e.g. those applying with anticipated grades, means recruitment cannot be completed sooner.
You must apply for the direct entry vacancy. In-service vacancies are only available to current NHS employees, who have been nominated by their NHS employer for a confirmed funded post.
No, it is not possible to amend your appllication once this has been submitted. Only personal information as part of your Oriel account can be amended e.g. contact number.
We do not accept late applications for any reason including technical difficulties. You must ensure that you complete and submit your application by the closing date.
We do not accept CV’s as part of the application.
No, there will be no impact if you re-apply in a different year with a different specialty.
Yes, there is a maximum word count for the supporting information. This is detailed on the application form.
No, there is no advantage to applying early. However, we do recommend not submitting your application on the last day.