How will the SFP selection process work – i.e. how will interested applicants be selected?
- The updated detailed process and timeline published 10/03/2026.
When will the process take place and what is the timeline?
- The process will begin after allocation to Scotland as your UoA.
- You will be sent a Welcome email from Oriel with more details on the process.
- The national timeline for allocation see UKFPO application timeline.
How do I apply?
- Details on how to apply will be included in Welcome email sent to all allocated to the Scottish Foundation School.
- The Welcome email will include a link to a MS Form.
- You will have a limited time (1-2 days approx.) to complete your application and submit.
Am I still required to preference all Groups if I am only interested in a SFP group?
- YES - allocated applicants will need to preference ALL Groups in Scotland via Oriel, not just the SFP groups included in the MS SFP Preference Form.
If I have been pre-allocated to Scotland, can I still apply for a SFP group?
- YES - applicants who are pre-allocated to Scotland are still able to apply for a SFP Group.
- Allocation to a SFP Group for those pre-allocated to Scotland will be through the SFP process.
- Approved applicants who are pre-allocated to Scotland for particular reasons are allocated to the region which supports their requirements as detailed in their pre-allocation application form. This includes providing a valid contemporaneous address in the region where you are supported.
Can I still link my application to another applicant for FP for allocation to school and then apply for a SFP group?
- The option of linking an application is only available as part of the FP allocation, because as soon as you rank groups in a different order, the link is broken.
Do I need to preference all 7 SFP Groups in Scotland?
- NO - you should only preference the Groups (region) you are interested in, (which may be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or all 7 groups) please note that that you may not be offered your first preference.
- You MUST rank all FP Groups (regions) in Scotland.
I have been allocated to a SFP programme but no longer want the SFP post?
- Allocated applicants who no longer wish to take up their allocated SFP post will be withdrawn from the foundation programmes due to commence in August of that year.
What if I disagree with my outcome?
- If you feel the process was not carried out in a fair and transparent manner, you may submit an appeal. Appeals window will open after National Allocations are released.
Can I get feedback on my SFP Application?
- For those not allocated to a SFP group can request feedback, please request feedback via the sfas@nes.scot.nhs.uk email between feedback window (22/04/2026 to 30/04/2026) only during this period.
- Scores and rankings will not be released to applicants as this process is not comparable with other SFP allocation processes across the UK.
When am I allocated to Foundation School (UoA)?
- Please see the link to allocation webpages on the UKFPO website. Where you will find helpful information including the published timeline and more details on PIA.
How do I find out my supervisor and the projects on offer?
- You will be allocated a supervisor once you commence in post, your Foundation Programme Director (FPD) will advise.
- Speak to your FPD about your interests and potential projects once you commence in post.
Can I undertake my SFP programme abroad or outside of Scotland?
- The Scottish Foundation School does not support or accredit foundation doctors who wish to undertake their SFP block or time outside of Scotland or the UK.
Does the application process include an interview?
- No, interviews are no longer part of the SFP allocation process in Scotland.
This page was last updated on: 10.03.2026 at 14.31