Core Psychiatry Training Interview Preparation — 2026
This guide covers everything you need to know to prepare for the Core Psychiatry Training (Core Psychiatry Training) interview in the 2026 recruitment cycle. The Core Psychiatry Training interview consists of 2 stations covering MSRA, Interview. Tracks eligibility, MSRA status, and downstream selection steps instead of a portfolio points table.
Medically reviewed by MedNext Clinical Team. Last reviewed 27 April 2026. See our editorial policy.
Interview Stations
The Core Psychiatry Training interview consists of 2 stations. Each station is timed and assesses different competencies.
MSRA
Primary ranking signal for the route.
Interview
Track the stage that follows MSRA.
MSRA — Dual-Phase Preparation
Core Psychiatry Training uses the Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA) as the first phase of selection. The MSRA is a computer-based exam testing professional dilemmas and clinical problem solving. Your MSRA score determines whether you are invited to interview. Focus on MSRA preparation first, then shift to interview station practice once shortlisted.
Key Dates & Deadlines
Important dates for the Core Psychiatry Training 2026 recruitment cycle. Dates may change — check official sources for updates.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all essential eligibility criteria. These are assessed at the application stage.
Qualifications
You must hold a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS, MBBS) degree or other equivalent medical qualification.
Registration & right to work
You must: Be eligible to work in the UK. Hold full registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) at the time of application, **and** hold a current licence to practise on the date your post commences.
GMC registration details or licence evidence.
Career history
You must be able to provide complete details of your employment history, including any gaps.
Disclosure
You must complete all sections of the application form fully and truthfully, in accordance with written guidelines. You must disclose in your application if you are subject to any ongoing fitness to practise proceedings or are subject to any fitness to practise conditions.
CAPABILITY/Competences FOR ST1/CT1 ENTRY
You must have evidence of achievement of foundation competences in the three and a half years preceding the advertised post start date for the vacancy, via one of the following four methods: Current employment in a UK Foundation Programme Office (UKFPO) affiliated foundation programme; **or** Current employment in a GMC approved Specialty Training Programme holding either a National Training Number (NTN) or Deanery Reference Number (DRN); **or**
GMC registration details or licence evidence.
Additional ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
You must hold a current and in date valid driving licence or provide an undertaking to provide alternative means of transport when providing emergency and domiciliary care to fulfil the requirements of the whole training programme.
Official Source Documents
Verify all information against the latest published documents before your application.
Core Psychiatry Training person specification
Published by: NHS England Medical Hub
Related Specialties
Also in Psychiatry: compare interview formats and scoring criteria across nearby routes.
Connect with other candidates
Find a Core Psychiatry Training study buddy
Connect with other candidates preparing for the same specialty. Share resources, practice together, and stay accountable.
Practice Core Psychiatry Training mock interviews
Find a partner to practice interview stations. Give and receive feedback to sharpen your technique before the real thing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Core Psychiatry Training interview format?
The Core Psychiatry Training interview consists of 2 stations: MSRA, Interview. Each station assesses different competencies in a timed format.
How is Core Psychiatry Training selected in 2026?
Tracks eligibility, MSRA status, and downstream selection steps instead of a portfolio points table.
When are Core Psychiatry Training interviews in 2026?
Key dates for Core Psychiatry Training 2026: Application opened — 23 Oct 2025; Application closed — 20 Nov 2025; Interview window — Jan–Mar 2026; Initial offers — 31 Mar 2026. Check official sources for any changes.
What documents do I need for Core Psychiatry Training selection?
You need to meet 6 eligibility criteria including: Qualifications, Registration & right to work, Career history, and more. See the eligibility section below for the complete list.
Does Core Psychiatry Training use the MSRA?
Yes. Core Psychiatry Training uses the Multi-Specialty Recruitment Assessment (MSRA) as part of its selection process. Your MSRA score determines whether you are invited to interview and may contribute to your final ranking.
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