Portfolio Pathway - Approved Programme

This pathway is for doctors who completed the GP training programme in the UK but were released from training because of a single exam failure. It permits the missing exam to be taken outside the training programme and if passed, eligible doctors may apply for GP registration.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for this pathway, you must meet the following criteria:

  • a pass in either the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) or the Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) achieved within the training programme, and which is current at the time of application for GP registration.
  • successful completion of Workplace Based Assessment, with no outstanding actions other than to pass the AKT or the SCA, as evidenced on an outcome 4 ARCP form.
  • a final ESR with all capabilities rated as ‘competent for licensing’ or ‘excellent’.
  • a pass in the missing exam within the 12 month period after leaving the training programme.
  • GMC Registration with a licence to practise.
  • application for GP registration is made within 12 months of leaving the training programme.

Please read the Examinations regulations for details on eligibility to take an exam.

Application

You must have taken the missing exam, received the pass result and submitted your application within 12 months of your last day in a GP training post (not OOP).

You should consider the timing of the exam and of the publication of the respective results when planning your application to ensure you have sufficient time to apply within the deadline.

How to apply

  • Contact the GP Specialist Applications team as soon as possible after passing the outstanding exam, so your eligibility can be reviewed. Please allow 15 working days for this.
  • Once your eligibility is confirmed, the RCGP will inform the GMC who will send you an application form.
  • Submit your application to the GMC within the 12-month deadline.
  • The process to review your application can take up to 15 working days.
  • If your application is successful, you will be notified by the GMC and added to the GP Register.
  • The Portfolio Pathway (AP) is not a qualification, and you will not receive a certificate from the GMC.
  • Once you are on the GP Register you will be eligible to apply for membership of the RCGP (MRCGP). Please contact the Membership Services team.