The Application
Applications for ST3 Orthopaedics 2027 are expected to go live in November 2026. The 2027 dates have not been published yet — the 2026 cycle dates are shown below as a guide and will be updated as soon as the applicant handbook is released.
Applications are processed through the Oriel online application system and you can register with Oriel before applications open. For 2027 the orthopaedic ST3 interviews are expected in March 2027 and will consist of a 60-minute interview split into four stations.
The application focuses on the essential criteria for Orthopaedic ST3 as outlined in the Person Specification. It is important to be aware of the specific wording of the eligibility requirements and to make sure you have attained the required examinations and courses by the set deadlines.
Oriel Application System
All applications for specialty training in Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery must be submitted through the online application forms via the Oriel recruitment website. Forms will not be accepted by post, email or any other medium. Oriel was designed for candidates to manage their application through a single portal and incorporates the following:
- An initial registration process, meaning applicants only need one login for the entire recruitment year.
- After registering, each applicant has their own profile; it is through this that an applicant completes the trauma and orthopaedic application form and is informed if they are invited to interview or offered a training post.
- Booking interviews and assessment centres is managed through the portal.
- All available vacancies for specialty training are listed on the website.
Eligibility Requirements
Career Progression
- Applicants must hold a primary medical degree.
- Applicants must have completed Core Training: at least 24 months of surgery including 10 months of T&O surgery by the time of appointment.
MRCS
Applicants must have successfully completed MRCS by the time of interview. If you have not successfully completed MRCS at the time of application but are expecting the results of a recent examination by the interview date, you are eligible to apply.
Courses
Applicants must have satisfactorily completed the following courses by the time of interview:
- Essential: ATLS or equivalent
- Desirable: CRiSP or equivalent
- Desirable: a Basic Surgical Skills course
- Desirable: a Fracture Fixation course
Deaneries and Competition Ratios
Jobs Available
Each year there are around 100–150 available jobs, known as national training numbers (NTNs). In 2014–15 there was an increase in the number of jobs available from 100 to 190, due to a perceived increase in demand for orthopaedic surgeons led by the Department of Health. In 2016 there were no jobs offered in London.
Average Competition Ratios
Each deanery has a slightly different competition ratio, with the more popular deaneries usually oversubscribed. In 2025 there were 684 applications for 150 posts — a competition ratio of 4.56.
UK Deaneries
- East Midlands
- East of England
- Kent, Surrey and Sussex
- London – North Central & East
- London – North West
- London – South
- North East
- North West
- Northern Ireland
- Peninsula
- Scotland
- Severn
- Thames Valley
- Wales
- Wessex
- West Midlands
- Yorkshire
More interview info
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