Application Process Overview
The only way to secure a place on a 2-year Foundation Programme in Scotland is through the national UK application process. The Applicant Guidance for the 2-year Foundation Programme outlines the national application process, including the timeline and the stages involved. From completing the application form on Oriel to final allocation to a Foundation School, each step is clearly explained with this resource. Allocation to a Foundation School, Group and Programme is based on Preference Informed Allocation (PIA)
2026 Applications
The online application form for the Foundation Programme is available on Oriel. If you required to be in a particular foundation school due to your personal circumstances please see the pre-allocation guidance, timeline and application forms on the UKFPO website.
2026 UKFPO Timeline
The timeline on the UKFPO website provides key dates and deadlines for application to the 2-year Foundation Programme and allocation to Groups and Programmes.
2026 Scottish Foundation School Timeline
The Scottish Foundation School will publish a detailed timeline in February 2026, for our 2-stage group, programmes and SFP allocation process.
2026 Person Specification
The Person Specification for Foundation Programmes commencing August 2026 can be found on the UKFPO website under Resources section. Applicants are encouraged to review this to ensure they meet all necessary criteria.
GMC Registration
It is mandatory to hold Provisional GMC Registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) at the start of shadowing and induction and prior to starting F1 training programme.
Eligibility Application
Some applicants my be required to complete an eligibility application before apply for a foundation programme via the UKFPO.
Competition and First Preference Ratios
Details of previous years competitions ratios are available on the UKFPO website. These figure may provide you with valuable insight into the application landscape for Foundation Programmes in the UK. Please also see the information on first preference ratios published by the UKFPO.
This page was last updated on: 15.12.2025 at 12.21