The Portfolio Pathway (formerly CEGPR route)

The Portfolio Pathway is an alternative route to the GP Register if you are not eligible for a CCT but can demonstrate that you have achieved the knowledge, skills and experience required to work unsupervised as a general practitioner in the UK. This is likely to be because you have trained and worked as a general practitioner or family doctor outside the UK.

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All applications via the Portfolio Pathway are considered individually and on individual merit. Examinations accredited for MRCGP International are not automatically recognised and do not guarantee a successful application. If you have gained MRCGP[INT], please read our FAQ number 7

Steps to a Portfolio Pathway application, the GP Register and working as a general practitioner

  1. Apply online to the GMC and submit a folder of evidence in line with the guidance. 
  2. GMC checks your evidence is complete and passes it to the RCGP for evaluation. 
  3. RCGP evaluates all evidence and makes a recommendation to the GMC. 
  4. GMC reviews the recommendation and approves or declines your Portfolio Pathway application. 
  5. If the GMC approves your application, you will be included on the GMC’s GP Register. If your application is declined, you will be given recommendations on how to meet the required standard. 
  6. Once on the GP Register, apply to join the GP International Induction Programme (IIP). Successful completion of the programme will allow you entry to the National Medical Performers List, a prerequisite to working in general practice.

Am I eligible to apply?

Before you make a Portfolio Pathway application you must either have a qualification in general practice or at least six months specific training in general practice from anywhere in the world.

How to make a Portfolio Pathway application

Before you begin your Portfolio Pathway application, it is important to read: 

We can answer any questions you may have and offer guidance on suitable evidence to support your application. 

Applications are made to the General Medical Council online via their website. You will need to upload your application evidence electronically to the GMC portal. Your application may remain open for up to 24 months and evidence can be uploaded as you gather it. We recommend that you take time to read all the guidance for applicants on the GMC website. Once your application is complete, the GMC sends it to the RCGP to be evaluated and we provide a recommendation to the GMC. The final decision to approve or decline a Portfolio Pathway application is made by the GMC. 

If you are applying for general practice training in the UK and hoping to combine some of your previous experience (for example, in overseas posts) with your training programme, please visit our combined training page. 

While the GMC is currently reviewing the role of generative AI in Portfolio Pathway applications, we are providing interim guidance which sets out our current expectations on its appropriate and ethical use.

The responsible use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can support applicants in the organisation and presentation of their Portfolio Pathway applications. Generative AI may assist in structuring documents, checking grammar, or providing general guidance on reflective writing techniques. However, it is essential that all content submitted reflects the applicant’s own knowledge, skills, and personal professional experiences. Generative AI-generated material should not replace critical thinking, clinical judgment, or personal reflections, which are key components in demonstrating the capabilities required for independent general practice in the UK.

Applicants must be mindful of the risks associated with AI use, including inaccuracies, potential biases, and the inadvertent inclusion of plagiarised content. The submission of AI-generated evidence without clear personal contribution undermines the integrity of the application and may be considered a breach of ethical standards. Where generative AI tools have been used to support the preparation of documents, applicants should acknowledge this appropriately while ensuring that all clinical examples, reflections, and learning outcomes are authentically their own.

Resources for applicants

View our resources as well as frequently asked questions.

Final steps to independent practice

After successful application through the Portfolio Pathway, you will automatically be included on the GP Register. The next step is to complete a short programme of supervised induction. You can register for the GP International Induction Programme (IIP) through the GP National Recruitment Office website. You will be included on the National Medical Performers List after completing your induction. Once this is confirmed, you can accept a post in independent practice.

Becoming a member of the College

Since May 2021, doctors who completed a successful CEGPR or Portfolio Pathway application, and have been on the GP Register for five years, are eligible to apply for membership of the College (MRCGP).

Contact us

If you have any questions about making a Portfolio Pathway application, contact our GP Specialist Applications team on:

Tel: 020 3188 7656
Tel: + 44 20 3188 7656 from outside the UK
Email: gpsa@rcgp.org.uk