Guides / ARCP outcomes
Guide · ARCP
ARCP outcomes explained, and how to prepare
The Annual Review of Competence Progression decides whether a doctor in training moves on. This is what each outcome means and the deadlines around a panel, from the Gold Guide's 11th edition.
The outcomes
| Outcome | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1 | Satisfactory progress: the doctor moves on to the next stage. |
| 2 | Specific capabilities still to develop, without extra training time. |
| 3 | Inadequate progress: extra training time is needed. |
| 4 | Released from the training programme. |
| 5 | Incomplete evidence: the panel cannot yet decide. Normally reviewed within 8 weeks, and never across a progression point. |
| 6 | All capabilities achieved: recommended for completion of training (CCT). |
| 7.1 to 7.4 | Outcomes for doctors in fixed-term posts, such as locum appointments for training. |
| 8 | Out of programme (experience, research, career break or pause). |
| 10.1 and 10.2 | "Force majeure" outcomes, kept for use only when the UK statutory education bodies direct it. Not in routine use. |
There is no Outcome 9 in the 10th or 11th editions. A panel issues no outcome while a doctor is on statutory leave or a pause; it records an N code instead. Sections 4.87 to 4.92 of the Gold Guide set the outcomes out in full.
Timings a programme director needs
- At least once a year, and never more than 15 months apart (4.37). The same applies to doctors training less than full time.
- Six weeks' notice of the portfolio deadline, to the doctor and their trainers (4.57).
- Portfolio in two weeks before the panel sits (4.57).
- Warn in advance: if an Outcome 2, 3 or 4 is possible, the doctor should know before the panel (4.83).
- Outcome 5 review normally within 8 weeks. The panel can let the chair confirm an Outcome 1 or 6 when the evidence arrives; otherwise it reconvenes.
Form R
The doctor returns a Form R every year before their ARCP (3.47, 4.123). If it is missing, the panel gives an Outcome 5 and two weeks to put it right (4.124). If it is still missing after that, the panel issues an Outcome 2, 3 or 4, never a 1 or a 6 (4.126). A repeat can lead to a referral to the GMC (4.127).
The panel
At least three members, one of whom is the Postgraduate Dean or deputy, the Head of School or a Training Programme Director (4.67). There should normally be input from a lay adviser and an external adviser, who review a random sample of outcomes (4.70 to 4.72).
Reviews and appeals
- Outcome 2: the doctor can ask for a review within 10 working days. The review's decision is final (4.165 to 4.166).
- Outcomes 3 and 4: the doctor can appeal in writing to the Postgraduate Dean within 10 working days. A review comes first, then a hearing, normally within 30 working days (4.167 to 4.174).
Completion and extensions
An early Outcome 6 is normally no more than a year ahead of the planned date, with the penultimate ARCP the last point to agree it (4.6 to 4.7). Extra training time across a programme is capped at two years for run-through or combined core and higher training, not counting statutory leave (4.106). Extra time given to a doctor training less than full time is pro rata.
A preparation checklist
- Set the panel date, then work back: the portfolio deadline two weeks before it, and the notice to doctors and trainers six weeks before that.
- Check each doctor's completion date is right, especially after a change of working pattern or time out. The CCT date calculator shows the counting.
- Chase Form R and educational supervisor reports early; a missing Form R alone produces an Outcome 5.
- Tell any doctor who may get an Outcome 2, 3 or 4 before the panel.
- Confirm the panel has three members, including a TPD or Head of School, and arrange lay and external input.
- Record outcomes, and give doctors the review and appeal deadlines with the outcome.
Last reviewed 12 October 2026 against the 11th edition. Always check the current Gold Guide and your deanery's own ARCP procedures.