Application, eligibility, and registering with the RCOG
Applying for subspecialty training
Subspecialty training programmes are usually advertised in the BMJ.
If you wish to apply for subspecialty training, you’ll need to apply directly to the Deaneries/Trusts as set out in the adverts.
The RCOG doesn’t organise subspecialty training posts or programmes.
Eligibility for subspecialty training
To be eligible to enter subspecialty training, you need to fulfil one of the following criteria:
- Hold a UK NTN (national training number) or equivalent, including successful completion of clinical training to ST5 or ST6 level, confirmed by outcome 1 in most recent ARCP or equivalent, and have passed the Part 3 MRCOG. Transabdominal ultrasound (see ultrasound guidance document on RCOG eLearning) examination of normal fetal anatomy and biometry – Must be completed and signed off as competent prior to undertaking the Fetal Medicine ATSM or subspecialty training in Maternal and Fetal Medicine
- Hold a UK CCT or Portfolio Pathway and be on the UK Specialist Register in O&G, or hold a CCT or Portfolio Pathway that in due course will entitle you to enter the Specialist Register (formal entry to the programme will only be confirmed once you’ve formally entered the Specialist Register)
- EEA (European Economic Area) and non-UK applicants who are listed on the UK Specialist Register in O&G
Subspecialty training person specification
See the Subspecialty Person Specification (Word document 55kb) for the list of essential criteria required for entry into all subspecialty posts as well as the desirable criteria for each of the 4 subspecialties.
Work permit and visa requirements
Non-UK/non-EEA nationals with limited leave to remain in the UK who require a work permit are subject to the resident labour market test and may only be considered for appointment if there are no other suitable candidates who fulfil the eligibility requirements above.
Individual Deaneries will decide what evidence you’ll need to present to confirm your immigration status. For more information, please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.
Appointment process
Appointment is through open competition involving a structured interview process.
Registering with the RCOG
Once you’ve been appointed to subspecialty training, you’ll need to register with the RCOG’s Subspecialty Committee. You must do this on appointment to subspecialty training; it’s not possible to backdate registration.
To register, download the Subspecialty Training Registration Form (Word document) and email the completed form to the Advanced Training Coordinator at subspecialtytraining@rcog.org.uk.
You’ll also need to pay a registration fee. Please see details on the Advanced Training registration fee and how to pay.