The Complete Guide to Dermatology ST3 Applications 

Introduction

Dermatology is one of the most dynamic and intellectually engaging specialties in medicine. It offers a unique balance between diagnostic reasoning, patient interaction, and hands-on procedural work; spanning everything from inflammatory skin disease and dermatological surgery to cosmetic and laser treatments.

Training to become a consultant dermatologist in the UK begins at ST3 level, following completion of core medical training. With limited posts available and increasing competition each year, dermatology remains one of the most sought-after specialties in higher medical training.

This comprehensive guide explains how to enter dermatology training, what qualifications and experiences you’ll need, how the ST3 application process works, and what to expect from the interview and recruitment stages.

You’ll also find insights into the timeline, scoring framework, and interview format, all based on the official NHS recruitment data for 2025. And for those preparing for interviews, Medset’s Dermatology ST3 Interview Course provides structured mock stations, expert feedback, and real-world practice to help you perform confidently and achieve your best possible score.

Overview of Dermatology ST3 Training

Dermatology is a broad, rewarding, and highly visual specialty that combines medicine, surgery, and research in equal measure. It suits doctors who enjoy detailed diagnostic work and managing a wide range of patient presentations.

What does dermatology involve?

Dermatologists diagnose and treat over 2,000 recognised skin conditions, ranging from common disorders such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, to complex autoimmune, infectious, and malignant diseases. Many conditions also overlap with other medical fields — particularly immunology, rheumatology, oncology, plastic surgery, and paediatrics — making it a diverse and collaborative career path.

As a trainee dermatologist, you’ll gain experience in:

• Outpatient clinics, where the majority of dermatology is practiced
• Minor surgical procedures, including excisions and biopsies
• Inpatient consults, for acute dermatological emergencies
• Dermatopathology and diagnostic microscopy
• Phototherapy, cryotherapy, and laser treatments

The training experience is not only clinically rich, but is also research-driven — offering plenty of opportunities to publish, audit, or pursue academic work during your registrar years.

Training pathway

Dermatology is a Group 2 specialty within the Physician Higher Specialty Training (PHST) framework. This means candidates typically apply after completing Internal Medicine Training (IMT) Stage 1 or an equivalent core training programme such as Core Medical Training (CMT) or Paediatrics and Child Health.

Once accepted, trainees embark on a four-year programme (ST3–ST6) leading to a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT). The structure includes:

• Rotations through hospital-based dermatology departments
• Outpatient and procedural clinics
• Research and teaching responsibilities
• Annual ARCP reviews to assess progress and competencies

Subspecialty interests often emerge during training, with many registrars pursuing additional expertise in paediatric dermatology, cutaneous surgery, contact dermatitis, dermatopathology, or medical education.

Career outlook

Dermatology continues to experience national workforce shortages, meaning there are strong long-term career prospects for trainees. Consultant roles exist across teaching hospitals, district general hospitals, and private practice, and the specialty is often noted for its excellent work–life balance and low emergency workload compared with other hospital-based specialties.

If you enjoy precision medicine, patient continuity, and multidisciplinary teamwork — dermatology offers a fulfilling and varied career with both clinical and academic opportunities.

Entry Requirements and Eligibility

To apply for Dermatology ST3 training, you’ll need to meet the eligibility standards set by NHS England for the 2025 recruitment round. Below is a summary of the key criteria based on the official Person Specification for Dermatology ST3 (2025).

Essential qualifications

• Full GMC registration with a licence to practise by the intended start date
• Successful completion of IMT Stage 1, CMT, or an equivalent core programme
• Achievement of MRCP (UK) Part 1 by the time of application and full MRCP (UK) by the start of post
• If applying from a non-physician background (e.g. paediatrics or surgery), you must provide an Alternative Certificate to Enter Group 2 Higher Specialty Training, demonstrating equivalent experience and competencies

Clinical experience

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient clinical exposure across a range of acute and outpatient settings, ideally including dermatological presentations. Typical expectations include:

• Management of general medical cases during IMT
• Evidence of independent clinical decision-making and teamwork
• Involvement in audit, quality improvement, or research projects
• Evidence of teaching or clinical supervision activity

Commitment to specialty

A strong and well-documented commitment to dermatology is crucial. Successful candidates typically demonstrate this through:

• Taster weeks or elective placements in dermatology departments
• Attendance at dermatology conferences or courses
• Poster or case report submissions in dermatology-related topics
• Portfolio reflections showing sustained interest in the specialty

Commitment is formally assessed during both the application and interview stages. Applicants are advised to record all dermatology-related activities in their e-portfolio and upload supporting evidence during the document upload window prior to shortlisting.

For the most current requirements, applicants should review the official Dermatology ST3 Person Specification 2025 published by NHS England.

Application Process

Applying for Dermatology ST3 training follows the national recruitment framework for Physician Higher Specialty Training (PHST), coordinated through the Oriel online system. The process is highly structured, and every applicant must meet the eligibility criteria, submit documentation on time, and complete all verification steps.

Where and how to apply

Applications for Dermatology ST3 are made through the Oriel Recruitment Portal, where you’ll:

• Create or update your Oriel profile.
• Select Dermatology as your preferred specialty.
• Complete personal details, employment history, and declarations.
• Upload all supporting documents — including certificates, MRCP results, and evidence of core training completion.
• Complete and submit the self-assessment questionnaire.

Once applications close, all self-assessments are verified against the evidence you’ve uploaded. If your verified score meets the threshold, you’ll be shortlisted for interview.

Verification and scoring

After submission, a recruitment panel reviews each applicant’s self-assessment evidence. Scores may be adjusted if documents do not fully support your claims — so clarity and accuracy are vital. All verified scores are then used to create an initial ranking list, which determines who proceeds to interview.

Common reasons for score reductions include:

• Missing or incomplete evidence (e.g. feedback forms, certificates, confirmation letters).
• Claiming points for projects that were not fully completed or presented.
• Uploading documents that do not clearly show authorship or involvement.

Tip: Start gathering your evidence at least a month before the upload window opens. Create clearly labelled PDFs for each domain — concise, organised documentation makes verification smoother and avoids unnecessary score reductions.

Programme preferencing

Before offers are released, you’ll be invited to rank your preferred training programmes. Dermatology ST3 posts are available across multiple UK regions, including London, the Midlands, the North of England, Scotland, and Wales. Preferences are submitted directly through Oriel during the programme preferencing window, which usually opens shortly before interview dates.

Recruitment Timeline 2024–2025

The Dermatology ST3 recruitment process follows a strict national timetable. Missing a single deadline can result in automatic disqualification, so it’s essential to plan early and track each milestone carefully.

Below is the confirmed 2025 recruitment schedule, adapted from the official NHS England (HEE) timeline:

Tips for managing deadlines

• Upload your evidence early in December — the Oriel platform slows significantly near the deadline.
• Check your MRCP and Alternative Certificate (if applicable) are ready before the upload window.
• Set up calendar alerts for each stage of the process.
• Keep both digital and physical copies of all documentation for easy reference.

Pro tip: Use your verification documents later as quick-reference material when preparing for your interview — many of the examples you’ve uploaded will form the basis of your answers during the “Commitment to Specialty” and “Leadership” discussions.

Self-Assessment and Portfolio Scoring

Your self-assessment score forms the foundation of your application and determines whether you progress to the interview stage. It is designed to measure readiness for higher specialty training, as well as your engagement with teaching, leadership, and research.

You’ll self-score your achievements across a number of key domains, each supported by uploaded documentary evidence. Panels may adjust your score during verification, so honesty and precision are essential.

Core scoring domains

Portfolio preparation tips

• Start early: build evidence gradually throughout IMT rather than trying to assemble it at the end.
• Label each file clearly, e.g. “2024_Audit_Psoriasis_QI.pdf.”
• Keep each domain concise — one to three strong examples per section is ideal.
• Include short reflections summarising what you learned and how it impacted your practice.
• Prioritise quality and clarity over quantity.

Tip: Medset’s Dermatology ST3 Interview Course includes detailed guidance on how to present your portfolio effectively and align your evidence with scoring domains — a strategy that can make a significant difference during verification and interview assessment.

Dermatology ST3 Interview Format

Once your verified self-assessment score meets the required standard, you’ll be invited to attend the Dermatology ST3 interview. All interviews are conducted remotely, following the national Physician Higher Specialty Training (PHST) format.

The interview assesses not just your knowledge of dermatology, but also your professionalism, communication, leadership, and suitability for higher training. It’s your opportunity to bring your portfolio to life and demonstrate the skills and insight that can’t always be captured on paper.

Structure of the interview

The Dermatology ST3 interview typically includes two structured stations, each lasting around 10–15 minutes and assessed by two independent consultants.

Assessment themes

Interviewers are looking for evidence that you:

• Communicate clearly and logically under pressure.
• Demonstrate safe, structured clinical reasoning.
• Understand current dermatological practice and multidisciplinary care.
• Show genuine commitment to the specialty through reflection and insight.
• Display professionalism, empathy, and self-awareness.

Tip: Practise structuring your answers using STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioural questions and ABCDE for clinical reasoning. The key is to stay concise, reflective, and calm — rehearsed but not robotic.

If you want to gain real interview experience before the actual day, the Medset Dermatology ST3 Interview Course offers realistic mock stations, structured feedback, and scoring aligned with the official national format.

How the Interview Is Scored

The Dermatology ST3 interview uses a national scoring framework designed to maintain fairness and consistency across all deaneries.

Your final selection ranking combines two major components:

Scoring scale

Each interview station is rated using a five-point scale ranging from “Below Standard” to “Excellent.”

Key to scoring success

• Structure your answers: Avoid rambling — use frameworks like STAR and ABCDE to stay focused.
• Show reflection: When describing experiences, highlight what you learned or how you would improve.
• Use evidence: Link answers to real experiences — e.g., audits, taster weeks, or leadership examples.
• Stay calm and professional: Good communication and composure can turn an average answer into an excellent one.

Pro tip: If you want to benchmark your current readiness, consider a mock interview with structured feedback. The Medset Dermatology ST3 Interview Course mirrors the actual scoring process, helping you identify exactly where to focus your preparation.

Common Interview Question Themes

Motivation and Insight

These questions explore your understanding of dermatology and your reasons for pursuing it.

Examples:

• Why dermatology?
• What aspects of dermatology most appeal to you?
• What do you think are the key challenges facing dermatology in the NHS?
• Where do you see your career in ten years?

Tip: Use specific examples — talk about experiences from taster weeks, mentors who inspired you, or cases that sparked your interest. Avoid generic statements like “I enjoy variety.” Instead, focus on what uniquely draws you to the specialty.

Clinical and Management Scenarios

These test your ability to make safe, structured decisions under pressure.

Examples:

• How would you manage a patient with suspected Stevens–Johnson syndrome?
• What is your approach to an inpatient referral with a new widespread rash?
• How do you handle a clinic that is running significantly behind schedule?

Tip: Outline your thought process clearly. Prioritise patient safety, communication, and appropriate escalation. Interviewers reward clarity more than encyclopaedic detail.

Professionalism and Teamwork

These questions assess your insight, integrity, and ability to work well with others.

Examples:

• Tell us about a time you made or witnessed an error — what did you learn?
• Describe a time you resolved a conflict within a team.
• How do you support a colleague who is struggling under pressure?

Tip: Use honest examples and demonstrate growth. Reflection and accountability score higher than perfection.

Research, Teaching, and Leadership

These questions explore how you’ve contributed beyond your day-to-day clinical work.

Examples:

• Tell us about your involvement in a teaching programme.
• How did you measure the impact of your quality improvement project?
• What research or audit have you been involved in, and what did you learn from it?

Tip: Keep your examples concise and measurable. For instance, “I led a departmental teaching programme that improved feedback scores from 70% to 92% satisfaction.”

Competition Ratios and Career Outlook

Dermatology has consistently ranked as one of the most competitive medical specialties in the UK. Its blend of diagnostic reasoning, procedural skill, and strong work–life balance makes it a favourite among trainees.

How competitive is Dermatology ST3?

Competition ratios vary slightly by year and region, but dermatology consistently attracts several times more applicants than available posts.

(Data based on NHS England recruitment summaries; 2025 figures will be confirmed after the current cycle.)

While the ratio can appear intimidating, the numbers also show that hundreds of strong candidates succeed each year. The difference between success and near-miss often lies in careful preparation — particularly understanding how to optimise your portfolio and interview performance.

Why dermatology remains so popular

• Broad mix of medical, surgical, and procedural practice.
• Opportunities in both NHS and private sectors.
• Excellent work–life balance and low on-call intensity.
• Growing academic and research potential, particularly in immunology and genetics.
• A strong sense of professional community through BCD (British College of Dermatology) and BAD (British Association of Dermatologists).

Tip: While competition is fierce, remember that it rewards consistency and authenticity. Building a portfolio that reflects your true interests, rather than chasing points, often produces the strongest and most confident applicants at interview.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Preparing for Dermatology ST3 while juggling clinical work and personal commitments can be overwhelming. These are the most frequent challenges trainees report — along with strategies that work.

Balancing application prep with a busy rota

Most IMT doctors struggle to find time for self-assessment evidence gathering.
Solution: Block short, regular sessions in your calendar — for example, one evening per week for portfolio updates. Break tasks into small goals, like uploading one new document each week rather than saving everything for December.

Misunderstanding the self-assessment framework

Many applicants lose marks because they overclaim points or misunderstand how evidence is verified.
Solution: Always match your evidence word-for-word with the self-assessment descriptors. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from a senior trainee or mentor. Underclaiming slightly is better than losing marks during verification.

Limited dermatology exposure

Not every trainee has direct experience in dermatology rotations.
Solution:

• Arrange taster weeks in local dermatology departments.
• Join national trainee organisations such as BADGEM (British Association of Dermatologists Group for Early Medical Careers).
• Attend regional dermatology meetings or online webinars.
• Contribute to simple dermatology-related audits or case presentations.

These activities show initiative and are highly valued at interview, even without a formal dermatology rotation.

Interview anxiety

The remote interview format can feel impersonal, and many candidates struggle to project confidence through a webcam.
Solution: Practise with peers or mentors over video call. Record yourself and review body language, tone, and pacing. Confidence comes from familiarity — by the time you sit the real interview, it should feel routine.

Weakness in academic or teaching domains

Some applicants focus heavily on clinical work but have few examples of teaching or research.
Solution: Even a single teaching session or QI project, if well evidenced and reflected upon, can earn strong marks. Seek out collaborative projects or trainee-led initiatives; these are efficient ways to gain experience without large time commitments.

Tip: The best preparation plans are realistic. Aim for steady, manageable progress rather than cramming. Dermatology recruitment values reflection and quality far more than quantity.

How Medset’s Dermatology ST3 Interview Course Helps You Succeed

Dermatology recruitment rewards structure, confidence, and self-awareness. That’s why the Medset Dermatology ST3 Interview Course is designed to help you master every stage of the process — from self-assessment to interview delivery.

Course Overview

Developed by dermatology trainees and consultants, the course mirrors the official 2025 selection format and focuses on helping candidates perform with confidence and structure.

What’s included:

• Comprehensive interview preparation: Step-by-step guidance on both stations, covering motivation, clinical reasoning, professionalism, and reflective communication.
• Mock interview simulations: Practice sessions replicating the real national format, complete with timed responses and scoring rubrics.
• Detailed feedback: Each participant receives structured feedback mapped directly to HEE assessment domains, highlighting specific ways to improve clarity, insight, and delivery.
• Current and relevant material: Updated annually to reflect the latest national recruitment criteria, clinical question trends, and examiner expectations.
• Expert teaching team: Led by experienced dermatology consultants and recent successful trainees who have personally navigated the application process.

Why trainees choose Medset

• Realistic simulation of national interview stations.
• Constructive, honest feedback focused on actionable improvement.
• Proven frameworks for structuring answers under pressure.
• Supportive environment designed to build confidence, not stress.

Tip: Even high-performing candidates benefit from practising aloud with expert feedback. Medset’s course allows you to refine your tone, structure, and timing before the real interview — often the factor that transforms “good” candidates into “excellent” ones on assessment day.

Enhancing Your Portfolio Beyond the Application

Your portfolio isn’t just a checklist — it’s a reflection of your commitment, curiosity, and professional growth. A well-structured, thoughtfully presented portfolio tells your story as a future dermatologist.

Commitment to Dermatology

This is one of the most influential domains in both self-assessment and interviews. Strong evidence examples include:

• Dermatology taster weeks or elective placements.
• Attendance at national events such as BAD Annual Meeting, PLS Dermatology Course, or BADGEM sessions.
• Dermatology-related audits (e.g. skin cancer pathways, eczema management, biologics usage).
• Case reports or poster presentations at dermatology or general medical conferences.
• Completion of relevant online or practical courses in skin surgery or dermoscopy.

Tip: Demonstrate progression. For instance, moving from attending a taster week to leading a small dermatology teaching session the following year shows genuine, developing interest.

Teaching and Leadership

Dermatology is a highly collaborative specialty, therefore both leadership and teaching are valued throughout training. Ways to strengthen your evidence:

• Deliver structured teaching to students or junior doctors (with feedback forms as proof).
• Develop or coordinate departmental teaching programmes.
• Complete a recognised teaching qualification — such as Medset’s Train the Trainers course, which provides formal CPD certification.
• Lead or co-lead an audit, service evaluation, or rota redesign project.
• Volunteer as a mentor or teaching lead within your trust or deanery.

Tip: Always include feedback, attendance numbers, and outcomes where possible. These measurable details help your contribution stand out during verification.

Academic and Research Output

Dermatology is a research-active specialty with major advances in immunology, genetics, and biologic therapies. You don’t need a PhD to stand out — just evidence of curiosity and contribution. Consider:

• Joining multicentre trainee collaboratives (e.g. UK DERM-Collab or local hospital research networks).
• Submitting a dermatology case report to journals such as Clinical and Experimental Dermatology or BMJ Case Reports.
• Participating in audits or QI projects that complete the full cycle.
• Attending local research skills workshops or journal clubs and reflecting on learning outcomes.

Tip: Keep your evidence concise. One well-documented project or presentation with measurable impact outweighs multiple incomplete entries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How competitive is Dermatology ST3?

Dermatology remains one of the most competitive medical specialties in the UK, typically attracting five to six applicants per post. Preparation, not perfection, is what makes the difference — well-organised evidence and confident communication consistently predict success.

Do I need prior dermatology experience to apply?

No. While direct dermatology rotations help, many successful candidates come from general medicine, rheumatology, or immunology backgrounds. Demonstrating authentic interest through tasters, audits, and conferences is equally valuable.

How much does the self-assessment score matter?

It typically contributes 40% of your final ranking, with the interview making up 60%. Even if your portfolio score is modest, strong interview performance can do more than compensate.

What kind of interview questions should I expect?

Expect a mix of clinical, ethical, and reflective questions — such as managing severe drug eruptions, handling missed diagnoses, or balancing service and training needs.

When should I start preparing?

Ideally, begin 3–4 months before applications open. Start by mapping your evidence to the self-assessment framework, then focus on structured mock interviews closer to the selection date.

Are international medical graduates (IMGs) eligible?

Yes. IMGs with full GMC registration and equivalent competencies from internal medicine training can apply. Most deaneries offer visa sponsorship for successful candidates.

What if I’m not successful this year?

Many excellent doctors succeed on their second attempt. Use feedback to strengthen weaker domains, gain more exposure, and practise interviews with mentors or structured courses. Dermatology is a long-term career — resilience and reflection are key.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Dermatology offers one of the most balanced, rewarding, and rapidly evolving careers in medicine. From diagnosing complex systemic conditions to performing precise surgical procedures, it combines intellectual depth with hands-on skill.

While the ST3 application process is undeniably competitive, it’s also highly transparent and achievable with the right approach. The most successful candidates share three qualities — organisation, reflection, and authenticity.

Here’s how to focus your preparation:

• Start early and stay consistent – build your portfolio gradually, not all at once.
• Prioritise reflection – interviewers reward insight and learning as much as achievement.
• Practise communication under timed conditions – concise, structured answers score highest.
• Use professional resources wisely – Medset’s Dermatology ST3 Interview Course mirrors the 2025 interview format and provides actionable feedback from experienced dermatology educators.
• Keep perspective – every consultant dermatologist began at this same starting point.

Ready to take the next step?

Begin your preparation today with the Medset Dermatology ST3 Interview Course — your complete guide to performing with clarity, confidence, and clinical insight.