ARCP Outcome 2, 3, 5 and 10: What they mean in practice

What this article is about
This article explains some common ARCP outcomes where further evidence, development or additional training may be needed.

Who this is for
Resident doctors and dentists in training who have received, or may receive, an ARCP Outcome 2, 3, 5, 10.1 or 10.2.

What you need to know

• Outcome 2 means specific capabilities need further development, but additional training time is not required.
• Outcome 3 means specific capabilities need further development and additional training time is required.
• Outcome 5 means the panel could not make a progression decision because evidence was missing or incomplete.
• Outcome 5 is a holding outcome, not a final progression outcome.
• Outcome 10.1 and 10.2 are used in defined circumstances where progress has been affected by a national emergency or force majeure disruption.
• Outcome 10.1 is broadly comparable to Outcome 2 where additional training time is not currently required.
• Outcome 10.2 is broadly comparable to Outcome 3 where additional training time is required.
• The outcome form should explain what is required, by when, and what happens next.

What to do

1. Read your outcome form carefully.
2. Check what evidence, development or additional training has been identified.
3. Note any deadlines for submitting missing evidence or attending a follow-up discussion.
4. Discuss the outcome and action plan with your educational supervisor or Training Programme Director.
5. Complete any required actions within the stated timeframe.
6. Keep evidence of actions completed.
7. Ask for clarification promptly if the outcome or required actions are unclear.

If this does not work
If you cannot meet the deadline or do not understand what is required, raise this as soon as possible. If you believe the outcome was not reached correctly, use the review or appeal route where available.

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

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Explaining the administrative meaning of ARCP outcome categories.
• Confirming deadlines for missing evidence or follow-up steps.
• Directing you to the correct review or appeal route.
• Updating training records after the panel or review process has completed.

HET cannot help with

• Re-scoring or changing the panel’s academic judgement outside the formal process.
• Completing missing evidence for you.
• Guaranteeing that a later review will result in a specific outcome.
• Providing legal, employment or regulatory advice.

Related articles

• Understanding your ARCP outcome and what happens next
• How to request additional training time
• How to request an ARCP review or appeal

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026