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Supporting Transition and Entering Practice (STEP)

STEP - Supporting Transition and Entering Practice

The Supporting Transition and Entering Practice (STEP) process is designed to support medical students as they transition from Medical School to Foundation School, particularly during the F1 year more information on STEP can be found on the UKFPO website.

STEP Timeline

  • The online STEP form window opens on 12 March 2026 at 14:00.
  • UK applicants must follow their local medical school process and timeline for completion of the online STEP form. 
  • Eligibility applicants must complete the offline word STEP form and link with their medical school for sign off.
  • The STEP form window closes on 13 May 2026.

Submitting your STEP form

  • If you have been nominated by a UK Medical School, you should complete the online STEP form.
  • If you have applied through the eligibility process and have been allocated to Scotland, please complete  the offline word STEP form and send a scanned copy to the Scottish Foundation School.

What happens to your STEP form

  • All STEP forms are reviewed by the Foundation School Director (FSD).
  • Foundation Doctors can request a copy of their completed STEP form from the Foundation School. To allow you to share the form with other parties if they choose to, for example, your Educational Supervisors, HR/Medical Staffing and the GMC. 
  • Sharing your STEP form helps ensure any necessary adjustment or additional support is identified early. The form will be shared with the following individuals: 
    • Foundation Programme Director (FPD) - if needed, your FPD may arrange an early meeting with you to discuss and support any adjustments.
    • Regional Associate Postgraduate Dean (APGD)

Fitness to Practice

If you are involved in a Fitness to Practice investigation, please contact the Scottish Foundation School directly. You may be asked to provide additional documentation to support the STEP form or the Fitness to Practice investigation. This could include a 'Wellness Plan' or other relevant materials.

Data Protection and Confidentiality

  • Your form is handled in accordance with GDPR standards.
  • There are also rules about how long information can be stored by organisations, as per the organisations retention policy.
  • All copies of your STEP form will be destroyed once you complete the Foundation Programme.

This page was last updated on: 09.03.2026 at 11.13