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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.

When processing STEP forms, the Scottish Foundation School adheres to GDPR standards and the UKFPO/MSC STEP process can be found on the UKFPO website.

2026 STEP Timeline

  • The STEP window opens on 2 March 2026.
  • UK applicants must follow their local medical school timeline for completion of the online STEP form. 
  • Eligibility applicants must complete the STEP form and link with their medical school for sign off.
  • The STEP window closes on 8 May 2026.

Submitting your STEP Form

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

What happens to your form

  • All STEP forms are reviewed by the Foundation School Director (FSD).
  • The FSD will assess whether your form needs to be shared with your:
    • Foundation Programme Director (FPD)
    • Regional Associate Postgraduate Dean (APGD)
  • This helps ensure any necessary adjustment or additional support are identified early.

Data Protection and Confidentiality

  • Your form is handled in accordance with GDPR standards.
  • Your form is securely shared with your FPD and APGD.
  • Your form is not shared with other parties, such as Health Board HR departments, Occupational Health departments unless you give explicit consent.
  • If needed, your FPD may arrange an early meeting with you to discuss and support or adjustments.
  • Forms are stored securely by the Scottish Foundation School and will be destroyed at the end of your Foundation Programme.

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.

This page was last updated on: 02.12.2025 at 10.23