The possible outcomes to your application depend on the application route you've taken
ⓘ The process for international applications has recently changed. This page now reflects the current process and outcomes. Read more about the changes >
When our assessors have concluded their assessment of your application, they will recommend an outcome. This is also known as the ‘first decision’.
We’ll email you with the first decision.
Our email will include a copy of your Record of Assessment which gives an explanation about the decision.
The outcome can be:
- Successful - you are accepted for entry to the Register
- Test of competence - you are required to take a test to inform our decision
- Unsuccessful - you are refused entry to the Register
Further information on these is below.
Successful applications
If we are satisfied that your education, training and experience meet the standards of proficiency for your profession, and that you meet the other requirements for registration, we'll accept your application.
Test of competence
If you’re asked to complete a test of competence, we need more information before we can make a decision about your admission to the Register. The test allows us to gather this information.
Read more about tests of competence
Unsuccessful applications
If we decide that, after assessment and any other test that we may require you to take, you are not able to meet the standards of proficiency, we will refuse you admission to the Register.
Period of adaptation
If you applied based on the Free Trade Agreement, there is an additional outcome you may receive: period of adaptation (POA).
You'll be eligible for this if you're a national of a relevant European state or have acquired the rights of that state (for example through marriage), and are entitled to practise in that state.
A POA decision is issued if we feel that there are significant areas of your skills, knowledge and experience that do not meet our standards. We ask you to complete a period of supervised practice and/or academic training to make up for the shortfalls.
