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ICGP GP training is a four-year programme. The first two years (GP1 and GP2) are hospital-based rotations across ICGP-approved specialties including paediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology, psychiatry, emergency medicine, and general medicine.
The final two years (GP3 and GP4) are community-based, split between supervised general practice attachments and increasing independent practice under a designated GP trainer. You qualify as a GP and receive your MICGP upon successful completion of all assessments, portfolio, and exit examinations.
GP trainees are employed as NCHDs throughout training and paid on HSE NCHD consolidated pay scales. Pay grade depends on training year:
| Years | Grade | Base salary range |
|---|---|---|
| GP1 & GP2 | SHO | €54,745 – €74,874 |
| GP3 & GP4 | Registrar | €69,580 – €81,937 |
GP Registrars (GP3/GP4) also receive an out-of-hours allowance of €10,857 per annum and a travel expenses allowance of €3,809 per annum on top of base salary. On-call supplements add further: Sunday and bank holiday shifts are paid at 2× base rate.
Figures from HSE NCHD consolidated scales, February 2026. Full salary breakdown including increment rules and on-call rates →
The number of ICGP GP training places has been growing steadily:
- 2025 intake: 350 places across 13 training schemes
- 2026 intake: 350 places across 13 training schemes
- 2027 intake: not yet confirmed; there is a possibility of an increase to approximately 400 places, subject to ICGP and HSE confirmation when the 2027 cycle opens
Places are spread across all 13 schemes in Ireland. Popular schemes in Dublin and Cork tend to be the most competitive. Some regional schemes, particularly in the West, Midlands, and Northwest, attract fewer applicants relative to available places, which can meaningfully improve your chances.
These refer to the four years of ICGP GP training:
- GP1: First year, hospital rotations in approved core specialties
- GP2: Second year, continued hospital rotations, additional specialties
- GP3: Third year, first community-based year; supervised general practice attachment
- GP4: Fourth year, second community year; increasing independent practice; completion of MICGP exit examinations
The transition from hospital to community at GP3 is a significant shift in working environment, patient population, and clinical responsibility. The GP Journey Timeline maps out what to expect at each stage.
For many doctors, general practice offers a combination of clinical breadth, continuity of care, and work-life flexibility that is hard to match in hospital-based specialties. Qualified GPs in Ireland are among the highest-earning professionals in the country, with significant income potential through GMS panel income, private fees, specialist clinics, and sessional work.
The acute shortage of GPs across Ireland also means that qualified GPs have exceptional geographic flexibility: you can practise almost anywhere in the country, or internationally.
Yes, absolutely. There is no limit to the number of times you can apply for ICGP GP training. Many successful GP trainees applied more than once before receiving an offer. Each application cycle is assessed independently.
Being unsuccessful in one cycle gives you a full year to strengthen your application, in particular to improve your SJT score through structured preparation. The SJT is worth 50% of your total score and is the most impactful lever available to re-applicants. Candidates who use that year productively typically see significant score improvements when they reapply.
To be eligible for the ICGP GP Training Programme you must:
- Hold full registration with the Irish Medical Council (IMC), or be demonstrably eligible for it before training commences
- Hold a primary medical degree on the IMC's list of recognised qualifications
- Have completed a minimum of 9 months of paid postgraduate acute hospital-based clinical experience within the last 3 years, with each post at least 3 months in duration
- Provide valid English language proficiency evidence (IELTS Academic or OET) if your primary medical degree was obtained in a non-English speaking country
Full eligibility criteria are published annually in the ICGP Guide to Applicants on icgp.ie before each application window opens. Always verify against the current year's guide, as requirements can change between cycles.
You do not need to have completed an Irish internship specifically. What matters is that you hold full IMC registration (or are eligible for it) and have completed the required minimum postgraduate clinical experience: at least 9 months of paid postgraduate acute hospital-based experience within the last 3 years, with each post a minimum of 3 months.
Doctors who completed their internship in the UK, Australia, or other recognised jurisdictions and then completed further SHO experience can apply, provided their posts are verifiable and they meet IMC registration requirements.
If you are still completing your internship, you may be able to apply during the current cycle if you will have met all eligibility criteria by the time training commences. Check the current ICGP Guide to Applicants for the exact cut-off date.
On satisfactory completion of the 4-year programme, you receive:
- CSCST (Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Specialist Training): issued by the ICGP. This enables entry onto the GP Specialist Register with the Irish Medical Council and is your formal qualification as a GP in Ireland
- CSTAR (Certificate of Specific Training/Acquired Rights in General Medical Practice): an EU certification that enables you to work as a GP in all EU and EEA member state health schemes
- MICGP: the Membership of the Irish College of General Practitioners. The MICGP examination must be successfully completed during training; it is not automatically awarded at completion
During training, all GP trainees receive Associate Trainee Membership of the ICGP at zero subscription, giving access to all ICGP member educational services and benefits. Trainees also have representation on the ICGP Council and GP Training Academic Council (GPTAC).
To be eligible you must:
- Hold a primary medical degree or equivalent medical qualification
- Be eligible for registration on the Trainee Specialist Division of the Irish Medical Council (IMC)
- Meet the HSE English Language Competency Requirements
- Be eligible to work in Ireland at the time of submitting Application A
- Have completed a minimum of 9 months of paid, full-time (or equivalent) postgraduate acute hospital-based clinical experience within the last 3 years (by July 2027), each post must be a minimum of 3 months in duration (exception: structured intern programme)
- Be fully competent and capable of performing duties associated with GP Training
You are not eligible if you:
- Are currently registered on the ICGP IMG Rural GP Programme
- Hold or are eligible to hold a Certificate of Specific Training/Acquired Rights in General Practice from the IMC
- Have exited a postgraduate training programme in any country before full completion (without first reviewing the ICGP Exit from Training Policy)
The full eligibility criteria are published each year in the ICGP Guide to Applicants. Always verify requirements at icgp.ie before applying.
Yes, a non-refundable application fee of €150 applies to all applicants. This is paid at the time of submitting your application through GPTER. The fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome.
Accepted payment cards include Mastercard, Visa, American Express, China UnionPay, Discover & Diners Club, and JCB.
No, training places cannot be deferred. The official commencement date for GP training is the second Monday in July. Requests for delayed starts cannot be accommodated.
If you accept an offer but are unable to commence on the start date, the offer will lapse and you will need to reapply in a future cycle. Plan your commitments accordingly before accepting any offer.
Yes, the ICGP allows applicants to pair their applications at the scheme selection stage. The purpose is to allow two candidates (e.g. partners or couples) to only receive offers for the same scheme.
Key conditions:
- Both candidates must consent to the pairing and provide each other's full name and email address
- Both must make identical scheme selections
- Both must achieve the required standard at the SBCA; if one fails, the pairing is void and the other reverts to an individual application
- For offers, both are assigned the rank of the lower-ranked member of the pair
- Paired places are only offered if two places are available on the chosen scheme
- Both must jointly accept or refuse any offer
Pairing requests can only be made or cancelled while the scheme selection process is open.
The confirmed key dates for the 2027 cycle are:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application A Opens | Mon 7 Sep 2026 |
| Information Webinar (Online) | Thu 10 Sep 2026 |
| Application A Closes | Wed 7 Oct 2026 |
| SJT & CPST | Wed 4 or Thu 5 Nov 2026 |
| Application B Opens | Fri 13 Nov 2026 |
| Application B Closes | Fri 27 Nov 2026 |
| Reference Submissions Open | Mon 30 Nov 2026 |
| Reference Submissions Close | Mon 4 Jan 2027 |
| SBCA (Interview) | Wed 3 – Thu 4 Feb 2027 |
| Scheme Preference Selection | Mon 8 – Mon 15 Feb 2027 |
| Round 1 Offers | Fri 26 Feb 2027 |
| Round 2 Offers | Fri 5 Mar 2027 |
| Round 3 Offers | Thu 11 Mar 2027 |
| Further rounds (as needed) | Until Mon 31 May 2027 |
| Training Commences | 2nd Monday, July 2027 |
For context on what each stage involves, see the GP Journey Application Timeline.
The ICGP process is competitive, with the overall applicant-to-place ratio typically ranging from approximately 2:1 to 3:1. This varies significantly by scheme: popular city schemes in Dublin can be considerably more competitive, while some regional schemes attract fewer applicants relative to available places.
The SJT (50% of your score) is the most powerful differentiator. A strong SJT performance can carry a candidate with a weaker interview, but a poor SJT is very difficult to recover from. Focused preparation using a question bank with detailed explanations makes a measurable difference.
You can apply while physically located outside Ireland; there is no requirement to be in Ireland at the time of application. The SJT, CPST, and SBCA are all conducted online and remotely, so you can complete them from any location with a stable internet connection.
Clinical experience completed in the UK (where many Irish graduates complete SHO years) is recognised provided posts are verifiable and documented. References are submitted by your referees directly through the GPTER platform; international referees can participate without difficulty.
If you are on Stamp 1G or Stamp 1H, be aware that under HSE national policy you fall into Group 2 for offer allocation: offers to Group 2 candidates are only made after all Group 1 candidates (Irish, EU, Stamp 4 holders) have been fully exhausted. See the Offers & Scheme Allocation section below for more detail.
The 2027 cycle uses a two-stage selection process:
Stage 1, Shortlisting (SJT + CPST): Both tests are sat on the same day. The CPST acts as a pass/fail gate: candidates who do not meet the required standard are eliminated entirely. The CPST score does not contribute to ranking. Candidates who pass the CPST gate are then ranked by their SJT score. Only the highest-ranked SJT candidates proceed to Stage 2.
Stage 2, SBCA (Scenario-Based Competency Assessment): Shortlisted candidates sit the SBCA, which replaced the traditional panel interview. The SBCA uses structured roleplay stations assessed against the 6 ICGP competency domains. Candidates must achieve the required standard at the SBCA to be eligible for an offer.
Offers are made to eligible candidates in rank order within each scheme preference.
GPTER (gpter.ie) is the online platform used by the ICGP to manage all GP training applications in Ireland. All applications are submitted through GPTER; there is no paper process.
You will need to create an account, complete your profile (education history, clinical posts, competency evidence), upload supporting documents, and invite your professional referees to submit references through the platform directly. GPTER also manages shortlisting notifications and interview scheduling.
Set up your GPTER account well in advance of the deadline. Leaving it to the last week risks technical issues that cannot be used as grounds for late submission.
While the exact checklist is published each year in the ICGP Guide to Applicants, you will typically need:
- IMC registration certificate or evidence of eligibility
- Primary medical degree certificate
- Postgraduate training records verifying your clinical posts (hospital letters, contracts, or employment verification)
- English language proficiency evidence (IELTS/OET) if applicable
- Two professional references submitted directly through GPTER by your referees, typically a clinical supervisor and a consultant you have worked under
- Passport or photo ID
All documents are uploaded through the GPTER platform (gpter.ie). Set up your account early and upload documents well in advance of the deadline. Technical issues in the final days are not accepted as grounds for late submission.
Yes. There is no EU/non-EU restriction on applying for ICGP GP training. What matters is that you meet the eligibility criteria: IMC registration (or eligibility for it), the required postgraduate experience, English language evidence if applicable, and eligibility to work in Ireland at Application A.
Non-EU doctors who have obtained IMC recognition of their primary qualification and completed verifiable postgraduate training in recognised healthcare systems, including the NHS, Australia, Canada, and others, are eligible to apply. The ICGP does not manage visa or immigration matters; these are handled through the IMC and the Irish Immigration Service.
If you are on a work permit or visa, your immigration stamp determines which allocation group you fall into for offers. See Offers & Scheme Allocation below for how Group 1 and Group 2 work.
Competitiveness varies significantly between the 13 ICGP training schemes. As a general pattern:
- Most competitive: Dublin schemes, highest applicant volumes nationally, particularly for city centre and south Dublin locations
- Moderately competitive: Cork, Galway, Limerick, high demand but typically better applicant-to-place ratios than Dublin
- Less competitive: Midwest, Midlands, Northwest, and more rural regional schemes, fewer applicants relative to available places, which can meaningfully improve your rank-to-offer probability
The right scheme is not just the one you are most likely to get into; it is also where you want to train and live for four years. Use the Scheme Matcher in your dashboard to see all 13 schemes, their locations, and how your profile compares.
The ICGP application is a two-stage process with separate deadlines:
Application A (7 Sep – 7 Oct 2026): A brief online form covering personal details, your preference for test time, and payment of the €150 non-refundable fee. You must also submit proof of eligibility to work in Ireland at this stage; this cannot be submitted later. Application A is the entry gate: missing this deadline means you cannot apply in this cycle.
Application B (13 Nov – 27 Nov 2026): Full supporting documentation, including clinical experience records, educational history, IMC registration evidence, English language proof (if required), medical degree certificate, passport-sized photo, and passport/ID. Application B opens after the SJT and CPST results are known, so only candidates who pass the CPST gate are required to complete it.
Irish interns can apply. The Irish intern year runs from July to July, meaning if you apply in September/October 2026 as a current intern, you will have completed your internship by the time GP training commences in July 2027. You are therefore eligible to apply during your intern year.
UK FY1 doctors at the time of applying are not eligible, as the FY1 year is still in progress when applications close and the required postgraduate experience threshold has not yet been met.
UK FY2 doctors are eligible, provided they will have completed the required experience by July 2027 and can commence on the 2nd Monday of July. FY2 applicants must ensure their programme concludes in time, as delayed starts cannot be accommodated.
If you are a current Irish intern, ensure you meet all other eligibility criteria (IMC registration eligibility, work eligibility in Ireland) and that your experience will satisfy the minimum 9-month requirement by the training start date.
You are exempt from providing IELTS or OET evidence if any of the following apply:
- You were registered with the IMC prior to 1 January 2015
- Your medical degree was completed in Ireland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the USA, or the UK
- You completed the Irish Leaving Certificate or UK A Levels and hold a degree taught entirely in English
- You are currently or were previously employed by the HSE and submitted IELTS/OET evidence to the HSE at time of first employment: you can reuse that evidence
If no exemption applies, you must provide one of the following (must have been sat within 2 years of submission):
- IELTS Academic: Overall band 7.0, with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the four domains (reading, writing, listening, speaking)
- OET (Occupational English Test): Overall minimum grade B, with a minimum of B in each domain
Expired certificates (older than 2 years at point of submission) will not be accepted. If your current results are borderline or expiring, resit well in advance of the Application B deadline.
You must provide two references from supervising consultants within the last 3 years (to July 2027). Key rules:
- One reference must be from your current or most recent supervising consultant
- If you are no longer in a hospital post and are currently working in general practice (paid employment), a reference from your current GP employer is acceptable
- References from two different consultants covering the exact same post period are generally not permitted (exception: a single extended post)
- The ICGP reserves the right to rescind an offer if a reference is found to be unsatisfactory after an offer is made
How references are submitted: During the reference window (30 Nov 2026 – 4 Jan 2027), the ICGP sends you two Microsoft Forms links. You enter your referees' contact details. Your referees then receive a direct link from the ICGP to complete their reference; you do not submit it yourself.
The SJT is a psychometric assessment of your professional values, ethical reasoning, and workplace behaviour; it does not test clinical knowledge. Scenarios are set in realistic healthcare environments and present you with a situation followed by four possible responses to rank from most to least appropriate.
Domains tested include: patient safety, communication, professional values, confidentiality and consent, colleague relationships, safeguarding, workload management, and clinical judgement in a professional context.
The key insight: the SJT tests alignment with ICGP/GMC professional standards, not what you would instinctively do, but what a thoughtful senior professional would regard as the ideal response in the specific situation described.
The ICGP SJT consists of approximately 45 scenarios in two formats:
- Ranking format: A workplace situation followed by 5 response options to rank from most to least appropriate (1 = most appropriate, 5 = least). Partial marks are awarded based on how close your ranking is to the expert-agreed ideal order.
- Selection format: A situation followed by 8 possible responses, from which you must select the best 3. Tests your ability to identify the most appropriate combination of actions.
The total test duration is 1 hour. It is sat online through the Risr/Assess platform on the same day as the CPST: SJT first, then a mandatory 10-minute break, then the CPST. There is no negative marking on either exam.
Yes, partial marks are awarded based on how close your ranking is to the expert-agreed ideal ranking for each response:
| Position Accuracy | Points |
|---|---|
| Exact match | 4 |
| Off by 1 position | 3 |
| Off by 2 positions | 2 |
| Off by 3 positions | 1 |
| Completely reversed | 0 |
With 4 responses per scenario (maximum 16 points per scenario), even a partially incorrect ranking still earns points. This rewards candidates who broadly understand the professional priorities involved, even if not every placement is exact.
The SJT tests a specific professional value hierarchy, not instinct, and not clinical knowledge. It is not a personality test you either pass naturally or don't. The framework it tests can be understood and internalised, and candidates who do this score consistently higher than those who don't prepare at all.
The most effective preparation combines three things:
- Reading the ICGP/GMC professional standards and Good Medical Practice: these define the value hierarchy the SJT is testing
- Practising scenario ranking under timed conditions to build fluency
- Reviewing explanations carefully when you get a ranking wrong: understanding why a response sits where it does is more valuable than the correct answer on its own
GP Journey's SJT simulator is built around this method, with domain-level analytics showing where your rankings are weakest, so your preparation targets the right areas rather than just accumulating question volume.
The SJT works on two levels. First, there is a minimum standard threshold: candidates who do not meet this floor are not shortlisted for interview, regardless of their CPST outcome. Second, for candidates who clear that threshold, their SJT rank relative to all other passing candidates determines whether they are shortlisted for interview.
There is no in-cycle resit option. If you are unsuccessful, whether because you did not meet the SJT minimum standard or because your rank was not high enough to be shortlisted within your chosen scheme, you can reapply in the following year's cycle with no limit on attempts. Shortlisting scores cannot be carried forward to a subsequent year.
After the SJT, candidates receive a rank that reflects how their performance compares to all other candidates in that sitting. Your SJT rank determines whether you are shortlisted for interview: only candidates above the cycle's shortlisting threshold proceed. That threshold shifts year to year depending on the applicant pool.
For candidates who are shortlisted and attend interview, the SJT accounts for 50% of your total weighted score, the largest single component. A strong SJT rank going into interview gives you significant headroom. A weak SJT rank is very difficult to recover from: even an excellent interview (40%) cannot fully compensate for a poor SJT result.
The CPST is a best-of-five multiple choice examination. Each question presents a clinical scenario followed by five possible answers; you select the single best answer. There is no negative marking.
The CPST is sat online on the same day as the SJT, via the Risr/Assess platform. The SJT is taken first. Candidates are then required to take a mandatory 10-minute break before commencing the CPST: this break is not optional. The CPST takes approximately 60 minutes.
The test covers clinical knowledge across all major medical specialties at the level of a competent SHO or registrar. High-yield areas include cardiology, respiratory, endocrinology, pharmacology, neurology, renal, and haematology.
The CPST is sat online via the Risr/Assess platform, on the same day as the SJT. The SJT is completed first. Candidates are then required to take a mandatory 10-minute break before starting the CPST: this break is required by the ICGP, not optional.
The CPST takes approximately 60 minutes and consists of approximately 50 best-of-five multiple choice questions. There is no negative marking.
You sit both exams from any location with a stable internet connection and a compatible device. A webcam is required and online proctoring conditions apply; the exact technical requirements are confirmed by the ICGP and Risr closer to the test date. Test your setup in advance to avoid technical issues on exam day.
The CPST is pitched at the level of a competent SHO or senior registrar. It does not test obscure subspecialty knowledge; it tests core clinical principles that every doctor entering GP training should have mastered.
Questions tend to focus on: diagnosis based on presentation, appropriate first-line investigations, guideline-based management, drug choice and interactions, and recognising clinical emergencies. Knowing key numerical thresholds, such as GOLD stages, ABCD² scores, CURB-65 cut-offs, NICE chronic disease targets, is often the difference between correct and incorrect.
The GP Journey CPST simulator includes clinical pearls and caution notes on every question to help you understand not just the right answer, but the surrounding clinical context.
The most efficient CPST preparation combines systematic knowledge consolidation with timed practice questions. Don't just memorise facts; practise applying them under time pressure, which is what the exam actually tests.
Focus your revision on:
- Cardiology (ECG interpretation, ACS management, heart failure)
- Respiratory (COPD staging, asthma, pneumonia scoring)
- Endocrinology (diabetes management, thyroid disease)
- Neurology (stroke, headache red flags)
- Pharmacology (drug interactions, contraindications, first-line vs. second-line)
After each practice question, whether you got it right or wrong, read the full explanation. Understanding the reasoning is what builds pattern recognition for exam day.
Yes, unlike the SJT, the CPST does have a criterion-referenced pass mark. The ICGP uses the Ebel method to set the standard each year. Candidates who do not meet the required standard are removed from the selection process and do not proceed to interview, regardless of their SJT performance.
This makes the CPST a genuine threshold exam, not a ranking tool. Your CPST score does not contribute to your final ranking at all; it is purely pass/fail. Failing to meet the standard eliminates you entirely, and a strong SJT rank offers no protection.
There is no in-cycle resit. If you are removed at the CPST stage, you can reapply in the following cycle. Use the intervening time to address clinical knowledge gaps systematically: focused question bank practice with full explanations is the most effective preparation strategy.
Yes, the ICGP has replaced the traditional panel interview with the Scenario-Based Competency Assessment (SBCA). The SBCA is a structured roleplay format, not a Q&A panel. Each station involves a simulated scenario with a role-player, observed and scored by assessors against the 6 ICGP competency domains.
Based on recent cycles, the SBCA includes three stations:
- Doctor–Doctor: A professional or workplace interaction between two doctors
- Doctor–Patient: A simulated clinical consultation testing communication and clinical management
- Doctor–Patient's Family: A simulated interaction with a patient's family in a more complex emotional context
The SBCA consists of three independent simulated stations, each 14 minutes long (1-minute reading time + 10-minute interaction + 3-minute scoring). An actor plays the role at each station; scenarios may be doctor–doctor, doctor–patient, or doctor–patient's relative. Candidates move automatically from one station to the next.
Preparation tip: Practise staying in role and responding naturally. The assessors are looking for authentic competency behaviours, not scripted answers. Familiarise yourself with all six ICGP competency domains so you can draw on the right skills regardless of which scenario you face.
The SBCA is held online via Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Once shortlisted, you will be sent a link and all joining instructions directly; no travel required.
The SBCA is assessed against 6 core competency domains:
- Communication and Consultation Skills: how you communicate with patients, families, and colleagues
- Practising Holistically: understanding the whole patient: physical, psychological, social, and cultural context
- Data Gathering and Interpretation: how you gather and use clinical information
- Making Diagnoses and Decisions: clinical reasoning and decision-making under uncertainty
- Clinical Management: management plans, safety-netting, and follow-up
- Managing Medical Complexity: handling multimorbidity, uncertainty, and complex cases
Assessors score how you behave in each roleplay scenario, not just what you say, but how you listen, respond, and reflect. Have real clinical experiences ready that demonstrate each domain.
The most effective preparation combines three things:
- Understanding the roleplay format: The ICGP interview uses simulated patient and professional roleplay stations, not just verbal Q&A. You need to be comfortable performing, not just speaking about performance. Practising under realistic conditions is significantly more effective than reading notes.
- Knowing the 6 competency domains: Strong candidates demonstrate Communication, Holistic Practice, Data Gathering, Clinical Decision-Making, Clinical Management, and Managing Complexity through their behaviour in each scenario, not through memorised answers.
- Building real clinical examples: Have genuine clinical experiences from your own practice ready across all 6 domains. Specificity and authentic reflection score significantly higher than generic answers.
Start preparation at least 4–6 weeks before your interview date. GP Journey's AI Video Simulator and AI Voice Simulator recreate the SBCA roleplay format and provide a performance report after each session.
After the SBCA, successful candidates select scheme preferences (8–15 February 2027). Offers are then made in multiple rounds, posted online:
| Round | Offers Posted |
|---|---|
| Round 1 | Fri 26 Feb 2027 |
| Round 2 | Fri 5 Mar 2027 |
| Round 3 | Thu 11 Mar 2027 |
| Further rounds | Until Mon 31 May 2027 |
Offers are made in rank order within each scheme. Each candidate receives an offer for their highest-ranked available scheme based on their composite score. Subsequent rounds open as accepted and declined places free up. All rounds conclude by 31 May 2027. Training commences on the 2nd Monday in July 2027.
Declining any offer that is not your 1st preference keeps you in subsequent rounds, but there is no guarantee you will receive another offer. Additional rules to know:
- You will not be issued the same offer twice
- Subsequent rounds continue until all places are filled or 31 May 2027
- If you are paired with another applicant, you must jointly accept or refuse any offer made
Under HSE national recruitment policy, all ICGP applicants fall into one of two groups which determines when offers are extended:
Group 1: Irish nationals, UK nationals, EU/EEA nationals, and holders of Stamp 4 or Stamp 4 EUFAM. All Group 1 candidates are ranked and offered places equally in accordance with EU law. Group 1 candidates receive offers first across all rounds.
Group 2: Holders of Stamp 1G (graduate permission) and Stamp 1H. Group 2 candidates are only offered places once all Group 1 candidates have been fully exhausted across all scheme preferences and all rounds.
No to both. Training places cannot be deferred to a future year, and there is no official process to swap a training post with a colleague before commencement.
Training commences on the 2nd Monday in July. If you accept an offer but are unable to start on that date, the offer lapses and you will need to reapply in the following cycle. If you are facing exceptional circumstances (serious illness, bereavement), contact the ICGP directly. There is no formal deferral mechanism, but exceptional cases are considered at the College's discretion.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows doctors who have completed Basic Specialist Training (BST) in certain specialties to have their GP training shortened from 4 years to 3 years.
You may be eligible for RPL if you have completed, with the required examinations, any of the following:
- BST in Medicine with the RCPI: requiring MRCPI Part I and Part II (Written & Clinical)
- BST in Paediatrics with the RCPI: requiring MRCPI Part I and Part II (Written & Clinical)
- Core Specialist Training in Emergency Medicine (CSTEM) with the RCSI: requiring MRCEM Primary, MRCEM Intermediate SBA, and MRCEM OSCE
Equivalent qualifications from other jurisdictions accepted by RCPI or RCSI (and registerable with the IMC) are also considered.
For the 2027 cycle, RPL requires:
- All required examinations (MRCPI or MRCEM) must be passed by Thursday 30 April 2026
- The BST CSCST or CSTEM certificate must be obtained by Sunday 12 July 2026
RPL documentation is submitted as part of your standard GPTER application.
No. Applying for RPL does not guarantee a shortened programme. RPL offers are made based on:
- The training scheme's ability to accommodate an RPL trainee, since not all schemes can support RPL in every cycle
- Your overall rank in the selection process
- The ICGP's assessment of your RPL documentation
If your RPL application is unsuccessful, you will be considered for a standard 4-year place. RPL decisions are final and not open to appeal. If you receive an RPL offer, you must still complete the mandatory RPL Catch-Up Course before beginning the abbreviated programme.
GP Journey is a private educational resource created to help doctors prepare for the ICGP GP Training application process. All official ICGP content, examination materials, and application processes are managed exclusively through icgp.ie and gpter.ie. Always verify exam-relevant information with the ICGP directly.
The free version gives you access to 5 SJT scenarios and 10 CPST questions with full explanations, plus limited access to the SJT, CPST, and Interview Knowledge Bases. You also get the Application Tracker, Blog, and Weekly Newsletter, permanently free, no card required.
This is enough to understand both exam formats and assess your baseline before deciding whether to upgrade. Upgrading to SJT/CPST Bank (€60) unlocks 250 SJT scenarios, 500 CPST questions, analytics, and a personalised Study Planner. Interview Prep (€100) unlocks the AI Video and Voice Simulators, the full Interview Knowledge Base, and the Scheme Ranking Tool.
GP Journey offers three tiers:
Free: €0, forever
5 SJT scenarios and 10 CPST questions with full explanations · Limited SJT, CPST, and Interview Knowledge Bases · Application Tracker, Blog, Weekly Newsletter
SJT/CPST Bank: €60 for 8 weeks (was €150)
250 SJT scenarios with partial mark breakdowns and expert explanations · 500 CPST questions across 23 clinical topics · Timed exam mode for both · Performance analytics, weak-area identification, personalised Study Planner
Interview Prep: €100 for 8 weeks (was €250)
Full Interview Knowledge Base across all 6 ICGP competency domains · AI Video Simulator (5 scenarios) and AI Voice Simulator · Scheme Ranking Tool for all 13 Irish GP training schemes · Performance analytics, Study Planner, Application Tracker
The two paid tiers are separate pathways: most doctors purchase SJT/CPST Bank first, then Interview Prep after shortlisting. Both are HSE TSS eligible.
GP Journey includes 250 SJT scenarios in two formats: ranking (rank 5 responses 1–5) and selection (choose best 3 from 8), covering all ICGP competency domains. All scenarios include partial mark breakdowns showing exactly how many points each response position earns and why the expert ranking is as it is.
The CPST bank includes 500 questions across 23 clinical topics, including Cardiology (48), Mental Health (55), Paediatrics (42), Respiratory (44), Endocrine (40), Neurology (32), Dermatology (38), Gynaecology (36), and more. All questions include full clinical explanations and clinical pearls.
New questions are added on a rolling basis throughout the cycle. All subscribers receive new questions automatically, with no additional charge.
Yes. The AI Video Simulator and AI Voice Simulator are included in the Interview Prep plan (€100 for 8 weeks).
The AI Video Simulator presents ICGP-style competency-based roleplay scenarios in a realistic format. You respond on video and receive a full performance report covering structure, specificity, and reflection quality: exactly the elements assessors score in real stations.
The AI Voice Simulator lets you practise aloud on the go without a full video setup, useful for commute preparation and high-volume repetition.
Both simulators cover all 6 ICGP competency domains and are designed for the roleplay station format. By the time you attend the real interview, you will have already performed under realistic conditions multiple times with actionable feedback each time.
Most other platforms focus primarily on question bank practice for the written exams. GP Journey covers the full application journey: from understanding the process and choosing the right scheme, to SJT and CPST practice, to SBCA preparation and application tracking.
In addition to a competitive question bank, GP Journey includes: a Scheme Matcher for all 13 Irish GP training schemes, Application Tracker, Study Planner, guided SBCA Simulator with ICGP competency scoring, and a Timeline of the complete application cycle. These tools are not available elsewhere.
GP Journey was built specifically for the Irish ICGP application process, not adapted from a general medical SJT resource.
Yes, GP Journey is fully responsive and works on mobile phones, tablets, and desktop browsers. No app download is required. Access your dashboard, practice questions, and study guides from any device.
For the best experience with the SJT and CPST simulators, a tablet or desktop screen is recommended, as the drag-to-rank interface and question layout work best on larger screens, especially under timed conditions.
New SJT scenarios and CPST questions are added on a rolling basis throughout the application cycle. SJT/CPST Bank and Interview Prep subscribers automatically receive access to all new questions as they are released, with no additional charge for new content.
All question content is reviewed and updated annually to reflect any changes to ICGP/GMC guidelines, NICE guidance updates, or changes to the application format.
Yes. GP Journey is built in compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Ireland's Data Protection Acts. Your account data, performance analytics, and payment information are encrypted in transit and at rest.
We do not sell, share, or market your personal data to third parties. Payment processing is handled by PCI-DSS compliant providers; we do not store your payment card details. You can request a copy of your data or account deletion at any time by contacting privacy@gpjourney.com.
Full details are in our Privacy Policy.
The Training Support Scheme (TSS) is an HSE-funded programme that reimburses eligible doctors for approved educational and training expenses, including online learning platforms and exam preparation tools used for postgraduate training.
GP Journey's SJT/CPST Bank (€60) and Interview Prep (€100) plans are both eligible TSS expenses. Most NCHDs working in HSE or HSE-funded posts, including interns, SHOs, registrars, and GP trainees, qualify for TSS reimbursement. The claim process is straightforward and typically takes under 10 minutes.
| Plan | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Free | €0 | Forever |
| SJT/CPST Bank | €60 €150 | 8 weeks |
| Interview Prep | €100 €250 | 8 weeks |
Add-ons are available from €20 with any tier, including Full Mock Exams (€50), Tutor Sessions (€50/session), AI Simulated Mock Interview (€75), Live Mock with Tutor (€150), and extra Interview Scenarios from €20.
Both paid plans are HSE TSS eligible: for most qualifying NCHDs, the full cost is reimbursed through the HSE Training Support Scheme. Current pricing reflects a promotional discount. A formal invoice is issued on request within 24 hours.
Yes. A TSS-compliant receipt is automatically issued to you on purchase, no need to contact us. Simply use that receipt when submitting your TSS claim.
The invoice describes the expense as: "Online GP training examination preparation platform: SJT, CPST & Interview preparation (ICGP GP Training Programme entry)", appropriate wording for TSS submission and most employer education allowance schemes.
Preparation works best in two separate phases, which is why GP Journey offers two separate tiers:
Phase 1, Written exams (SJT + CPST): 8 weeks
The SJT/CPST Bank gives you 8 weeks of full access. For most doctors studying part-time (10–15 hrs/week), 8 weeks is enough to work through all 250 SJT scenarios and 500 CPST questions with meaningful review. Renew for another 8-week cycle if you want more time.
Phase 2, Interview preparation: 4–8 weeks
After receiving your shortlisting notification through GPTER, you typically have 4–8 weeks before your interview. The Interview Prep tier is designed to be purchased at this stage, giving you a focused window for roleplay practice and AI simulation sessions.
Most doctors purchase SJT/CPST Bank first, let it lapse, then purchase Interview Prep after shortlisting. Your notes, bookmarks, and progress from Phase 1 are archived and fully restored when you start Phase 2; nothing is lost between cycles.
GP Journey add-ons are optional and available with any tier, including Free:
- Full Mock Exams: €50 (was €100): 2 full-length practice exams covering SJT & CPST in real exam conditions with a detailed performance report
- Tutor Sessions: €50/session: 1-on-1 expert support for SJT, CPST, or Interview weak areas, bookable anytime during your access window
- AI Simulated Mock Interview: €75 (was €150): Full AI-powered interview simulation across all 6 ICGP competency domains with a detailed feedback report
- Live Mock Interview with Tutor: €150 (was €300): Real mock with a live tutor, personalised coaching, and a recorded session for review
- Extra Interview Scenarios: from €20 (€75 for 5): Additional AI video practice scenarios beyond the 5 included in Interview Prep
All add-ons are HSE TSS eligible. Most doctors add one or two in the final two weeks before their exam when they want extra confidence in a specific area.
Yes, the platform works anywhere with an internet connection. You can access all content, practice questions, and simulators from outside Ireland with no restrictions.
However, HSE TSS reimbursement requires you to be in an HSE or HSE-funded post in Ireland; it does not apply during overseas placements, electives, or periods working entirely in the private or non-HSE sector. If you are temporarily abroad, check your TSS status with your Medical Manpower Unit before leaving.
Out-of-pocket access at €60–€100 for 8 weeks is competitive compared to any equivalent preparation resource, and both plans are fully accessible internationally. If you are based outside Ireland and preparing for the upcoming cycle, starting preparation early while abroad is entirely feasible.
Refund eligibility depends on whether you have accessed any premium content:
- No premium content accessed: if you have not opened any SJT scenarios, CPST questions, or Interview simulator content, a full refund is available. Contact us at hello@gpjourney.com within 7 days of purchase.
- Premium content accessed: if you have accessed any part of the question banks or simulator, refund requests are considered on a case-by-case basis. Contact us and we will work with you fairly.
There is no automatic exam-performance refund. GP Journey provides access to study tools, not a pass guarantee.
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