Urology ST3 2025 Application Guide
Written by Seán Rezvani | Updated 13th Nov 24
Contents
Introduction
The Urology ST3 (speciality training 3) selection process is a competitive and rigorous evaluation designed to assess your clinical skills, academic achievements, and suitability for speciality training.
This Urology ST3 application guide provides a comprehensive overview of the 2025 National Urology Recruitment process, highlighting key dates, application requirements, and strategies to maximize your success.
Recruitment Timeline
The recruitment process for National Urology ST3 2026 will follow the timeline below:
| Activity | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 20th November 2025, 10am |
| Application Deadline | 11th December 2025, 4pm |
| Longlisting | TBC |
| Shortlisting | TBC |
| Interviews | TBC |
| Initial Offers Released | By 14th April 2026, 5pm |
| Holding Deadline | 22nd April 2026, 1pm |
| Upgrade Deadline | 23rd April 2026, 4pm |
NB: All dates and times are indicative and subject to change.
The Urology person specification
The Urology person specification is a document published by the Health Education England. It outlines both the essential and desirable criteria for candidates applying for ST3 Urology training posts.
As these criteria have changed over time, it has become increasingly difficult for candidates to navigate. The specification outlines yearly what makes a candidate eligible according to the election criteria. It informs portfolio building, enabling candidates to tailor their training and experience to align with the requirements of the ST3 Urology programme.
Why is it important?
The person specification is important because it sets out expectations and underlies the application process. It’s important to be familiar with this ahead of the Urology ST3 application and interview.
The person specification informs interview preparation by highlighting key areas that will be focused on, allowing candidates to tailor their preparation to demonstrate their abilities in those specific areas.
Application Process
All Urology ST3 applications must be submitted through the Oriel system. The application form opens on 14 November 2024 and closes on 5 December 2024. Ensure you complete all sections thoroughly, as incomplete applications will not be accepted. Key points to remember include:
- Self-Assessment: You must self-score your achievements accurately using the provided multiple-choice questionnaire. Supporting evidence must be uploaded in early January.
- Eligibility Requirements: Full General Medical Council (GMC) registration and completion of MRCS (Member of the Royal College of Surgeons) are mandatory by mid-April 2026.
- Competency Demonstration: Evidence of CT1 and CT2 competencies in core surgical training must be provided if applicable.
Interview Format
Interviews for 2025 will be conducted online via the Qpercom VIDs platform. Candidates will participate in a national selection process, which includes a 60-minute interview comprising four stations:
- Outpatient Scenario (13 minutes, 2 minutes reading time): Focuses on history-taking, diagnostic reasoning, and management plans.
- Emergency Scenario (13 minutes, 2 minutes reading time): Tests your ability to manage acute urological emergencies effectively.
- Communication Station (13 minutes, 2 minutes reading time): Emphasises patient-centred care, empathy, and breaking bad news.
- Skills Station (13 minutes, 2 minutes reading time): Assesses knowledge of procedural indications, equipment use, and technical skills.
Each station is designed to test different aspects of your clinical acumen and decision-making skills. The total interview slot is 120 minutes, including technical checks and preparation time.
Self-Assessment and Scoring
Your self-assessment score is a critical component of the selection process. Scoring categories include postgraduate degrees, publications, audits, presentations, teaching roles, and leadership experience. Key considerations:
- Supporting Evidence: All evidence must be uploaded as a single PDF for each question. Failure to comply will result in a zero score for that category.
- Validation Process: Scores are verified by a panel of clinicians. Adjustments, if any, will be communicated with reasons provided.
- Appeals: You have 72 hours to appeal any scoring adjustments.
Key Tips for Success
- Optimise Your Portfolio: Prioritise gaining points in high-scoring areas such as audits, presentations, and teaching roles. Urology-specific achievements are particularly valuable.
- Practice for the Interview: Simulate the stations under timed conditions. Focus on clarity, structure, and demonstrating your knowledge effectively.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the National Recruitment website for changes and additional guidance.
Conclusion
The Urology ST3 recruitment process demands thorough preparation and a strategic approach. By understanding the requirements and dedicating time to enhancing your portfolio and interview skills, you can maximise your chances of success. For personalised guidance and expert support, consider enrolling in our Urology ST3 Interview Course.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ST3 Urology National vacancies are there per year in the UK?
The number of national urology vacancies changes per year, but it is a highly competitive industry. In 2024, the urology competition ratio was 4.27:1, there were 70 posts with 299 applications.
Although positions vary, for example, there were 82 positions and 252 applications in 2023, it is clear that training as a urologist is a highly sought-after position.
How can I prepare for the Urology ST3 interview?
There are several resources available to help you practice and prepare for your ST3 Urology interview, including:
- Medset’s Urology ST3 Interview Course
- Know guidelines (NICE, BAUS) for common urology conditions.
- Prepare your portfolio evidence well.
- Be able to articulate your motivation for urology clearly.
At Medset, we provide resources to help you prepare for the interview process with guidelines on the application process. If you are thinking about applying for Urology ST3, enrol in our Urology ST3 Interview Course as mentioned above.
What happens after ST3 Urology?
After completing the ST3 Urology, a urology trainee progresses to higher training years, specifically ST4 and onwards.
During this time, they will gain further specialist experience and knowledge, working towards a CCT (certificate of completion of training) in Urology and a Consultant position, potentially with a specialist interest.
About The Author
Mr Sean Rezvani
Sean Rezvani FRCS(Urol) is a Consultant Urological Surgeon and Chief Investigator of a UK cancer research study. Sean is passionate about medical education, technology in healthcare and generating translational research that improves patient care and clinical outcomes.
Connect with Seán on LinkedIn – Seán Rezvani
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