Applying for CCT After GP Training: A Comprehensive Guide
8/26/20256 min read
Prerequisites for CCT
Before the GMC will consider your application for a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT), you must have three essential components in place. These ensure that you have demonstrated the necessary clinical knowledge, consultation skills, and professional competence to progress to independent practice.
MRCGP AKT (Applied Knowledge Test) - This is a computer-based exam assessing clinical knowledge, application of evidence-based medicine, and organisational skills. It is usually taken in ST2 or early ST3, giving trainees time to address any gaps before the end of training.
MRCGP SCA (Simulated Consultation Assessment) - This practical assessment evaluates consultation and communication skills in simulated patient scenarios. It replaces both the CSA (Clinical Skills Assessment) and the temporary RCA (Recorded Consultation Assessment), and is often taken towards the later part of ST3, once trainees are more confident in their consulting style.
Satisfactory ARCP Outcome - Your ARCP (Annual Review of Competence Progression) panel must confirm that all required competencies have been achieved in your ePortfolio. Ideally, your final review should not show competencies rated “below expectations”. If you had them earlier, then you should work towards converting the same to “meets expectations” or “above expectations”.
Eventually, the final ARCP outcome decision rests with the panel. While they will consider individual ratings in your ePortfolio, their decision is also based on the overall quality of your training record, the consistency of evidence over time, and the feedback you have gathered.
✅ Once these three prerequisites are secured, you are ready to move confidently into the CCT application phase.
Introduction to CCT and Its Importance
The Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) is a crucial milestone in the career of General Practitioners (GPs) in the UK. Awarded by the General Medical Council (GMC), it confirms that a doctor has completed their specialist training and is qualified to practice independently within the NHS.
Achieving the CCT is more than a final step - it represents a thorough assessment of clinical knowledge, decision-making, and professional competence. It marks the transition from supervised training to independent practice, enabling doctors to apply for substantive GP posts and shape their own career paths. Many go on to become GP partners, salaried doctors, or locums, while others pursue portfolio careers that combine clinical work with teaching, research, or leadership.
The CCT also carries wider recognition. It reassures patients of a GP’s capability, affirms credibility among colleagues, and is valued internationally, supporting mobility and opportunities abroad. Importantly, it is a prerequisite for further specialty training or sub-specialisation, making it not only a career milestone but also a foundation for long-term professional growth and contribution to healthcare.
Milestone 3: CCT Application with RCGP
After receiving a satisfactory ARCP Outcome, you will see the option to "Apply for CCT" in your FourteenFish ePortfolio. Once you complete this process:
RCGP will validate if you are on the performers list as a GP trainee.
They will further check your training record (ARCP Outcome) and make a recommendation to the GMC
This is where delays often occur - if your performers list application hasn’t gone through, your CCT process can be delayed.
Milestone 4: Performers List – Transition to GP Performer
Once your CCT is granted, you need to update your status on the Primary Case Support England (PCSE) Performers List from “GP Trainee” to “GP Performer”, in order to start working in an NHS Primary Care GP Surgery
This is a simple status change update
Without this, you cannot work independently in NHS primary care - GP Surgeries or Out-of-Hours shifts etc
Note: Once you complete the GMC Application and Fee Payment, you will notice the Application Status Change to "Pending Recommendation". This will update after satisfactory completion of Milestone 3, into "Recommendation Received" followed by "Registration Granted"
Milestone 2: The Email from GMC
Once you have successfully completed the SCA, you’ll receive an email from GMC:
Subject: “Are you due to complete your specialty training programme?”
This email marks the starting point. Here’s what to do:
Log in to your GMC Online account and begin the CCT application.
Pay the GMC application fee.
The GMC will contact the RCGP for confirmation that you have met all training requirements. This confirmation is not expected to arrive, until Milestone 3.
⏳ Tip: This email usually arrives within a few weeks of completing the SCA, but processing times can vary.
Milestone 1: Apply to the Performers List as a Trainee
About six months before your expected CCT date, you need to apply to join the Primary Care Support England Performers List (via PCSE Online) as a GP trainee.
PCSE may reject applications submitted too early, so timing matters.
Being on the performers list is a legal requirement if you plan to practise in NHS primary care after CCT.
You may find this step by step guide from Primary Care Support England helpful.
📌 Important: This is a mandatory step - RCGP cannot issue a recommendation for your CCT to the GMC (Milestone 3), unless this requirement is fulfilled.
Note: The application process is merely a click on "Apply for CCT". You will see the below confirmation, once complete.
Beyond CCT: What to Consider
Earning your CCT is just the start of your career as an independent GP. A few things to think about:
Appraisal and Revalidation – You’ll need annual appraisals to maintain your GMC licence. Keeping an ePortfolio for CPD, significant events, feedback, and reflections will make this much smoother. Options for maintaining an ePortfolio include:
RCGP Portfolio – FourteenFish is generally bundled with RCGP membership (currently for the first 5 years post CCT)
Clarity / FourteenFish / similar ePortfolio tools – You may choose to purchase a standalone subscription directly from known providers. The key is to choose a system that is acceptable by most appraisers and is convenient to use.
Employer or local system – Some organisations may subscribe to their own platforms, and provide staff with access to the same.
👉 Ensure to download a copy of your current FourteenFish ePortfolio, as soon as you have CCT'd. This will be helpful for future reference.
RCGP Membership – Staying with RCGP as a member gives you access to resources, journals, and CPD opportunities. While not mandatory, many GPs find it beneficial for continued professional development and other benefits.
Locum or Salaried Pathways – Decide whether you want to start as a salaried GP, a partner, or work as a locum. Each has pros and cons in terms of workload, income, and flexibility.
Secondary Careers – With a CCT, you may choose to branch into Special Interest GPwER, Portfolio roles etc
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Leaving Performers List Application Too Late – This is one of the biggest reasons for delays in processing the CCT application, thus delaying start of work.
Incomplete ePortfolio Evidence – Ensure your learning logs, WPBAs, and supervisor reports are complete before ARCP (ideally with ratings equivalent to "meets expectations" or better). Panels cannot recommend CCT if evidence is missing.
Confusing CCT with CEGPR – CCT is for those completing UK GP training. Doctors with equivalent international training may need to apply via the CEGPR route instead.
Final Thoughts
Applying for CCT after GP training is a structured process, but it requires organisation, timing, and careful attention to both GMC and PCSE requirements. By preparing early, you’ll ensure a smooth transition into your new role as a fully qualified GP.
Once your CCT is granted and your performers list status is updated, you can finally enjoy the freedom of independent practice — whether in NHS primary care, out-of-hours, or beyond. Always check the latest Deanery, GMC and RCGP guidance, for any updates or changes.
CCT Timelines
Below is a recommended approach / sequence that has worked well. However, many trainees have completed all these in one go at the end - though that could result in potential delays.
Note: Always check latest guidance from the Deanery, RCGP and GMC
