Specialty training
ENT ST3 Recruitment 2027 dates
Every ENT ST3 application window we hold, when it opens and closes, with a page for each.
Higher specialty training in ear, nose and throat surgery, entered at ST3 after core surgical training. Training takes an indicative five or six years depending on special interest.
Otolaryngology (ENT) ST3 2027
Windows
Before you apply
Who can apply for ENT ST3?
Full GMC registration at application; MRCS or MRCS (ENT) by examination by Round 2 initial offers; UK core surgical training completed by the start date, or an Alternative Certificate of Eligibility. Prioritisation Act 2026 applies. Source ↗
How do you apply for ENT ST3?
One national application via Oriel for ST3 vacancies across England and Scotland (LAT posts in Scotland only), run by NHS England North East and Yorkshire. Opens 10am 19 November 2026, closes 4pm 10 December 2026. Source ↗
How are ENT ST3 applicants shortlisted?
(2026 guidance) Validated self-assessment score: highest scorers invited to interview. Source ↗
What is the ENT ST3 interview like?
(2026 guidance) Online. Three 10-minute stations: professional (possible pre-set paper or presentation), communication (actor role-play) and clinical; 45 minutes in total. Source ↗
How competitive is ENT ST3?
2025 Round 2: 5.93 applications per post (243 applications for 41 ST3 posts), NHS England. Source ↗
When does ENT ST3 start and how long is it?
Round 2 posts normally start between August 2027 and December 2027 (specialties recruiting once a year may start as late as April 2028). Source ↗