Understanding your ARCP outcome and what happens next

What this article is about
This article explains how ARCP outcomes are issued and what you should do after receiving one.

Who this is for
Resident doctors and dentists in training who have received an ARCP outcome.

What you need to know

• ARCP outcomes are based on the evidence reviewed by the panel.
• The initial outcome may be provisional until quality checks have been completed.
• You may be asked to sign the outcome to confirm you have received it. Signing confirms receipt, not agreement.
• The outcome form should explain the decision and any required actions.
• Outcomes may affect progression, further evidence, additional training time, CCT date or completion of training.
• If you receive a developmental or non-standard outcome, you should receive information about next steps.
• You may have a right to request a review or appeal for some outcomes.

What to do

1. Read the outcome form carefully.
2. Check the outcome number and any required actions.
3. Review any deadlines for missing evidence, follow-up meetings, review or appeal.
4. Discuss the outcome with your educational supervisor or Training Programme Director where required.
5. Agree an action plan if the outcome includes further development or additional training.
6. Keep a copy of the outcome form for your records.
7. Raise a query if anything appears incorrect or unclear.

If this does not work
If you do not understand your outcome, ask for clarification promptly. If you believe there has been a process error, follow the published review or appeal process.

Who to contact
Use the PGMDE Support Portal for ARCP outcome queries. Contact your Training Programme Director or educational supervisor for curriculum, development or action plan discussions.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Confirming when ARCP outcomes are released.
• Checking whether an outcome has been uploaded to the relevant system.
• Directing you to the review or appeal route where applicable.
• Supporting administrative corrections where an error is identified.

HET cannot help with

• Changing the academic judgement of the ARCP panel outside the correct process.
• Replacing the role of your educational supervisor or Training Programme Director.
• Providing legal, employment or regulatory advice.
• Confirming progression before the ARCP outcome has been issued.

Related articles

• ARCP Outcome 2, 3, 5 and 10: what they mean in practice
• How to request an ARCP review or appeal
• How ARCP outcomes affect your CCT date 

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026