Portfolio Station & Self-Assessment

Portfolio Station

For 2027, the Portfolio station accounts for 45% of the final CST selection score and lasts 15 minutes. Candidates are required to upload supporting evidence of their achievements, which will be assessed against the updated portfolio scoring criteria.

The prepared presentation is now included within the Portfolio station, rather than the Management station.

Portfolio Station Structure (15 Minutes)

• 3 minutes: Prepared presentation

• 2 minutes: Questions relating to the presentation

• 5 minutes: Portfolio question 1

• 5 minutes: Portfolio question 2

The two portfolio questions focus on Patients, Partnership and Communication and Colleagues, Culture and Safety.

CST 2027 Scoring Criteria

• 45% – Portfolio Station

• 45% – Clinical and Management Station

• 10% – MSRA Examination

Updated 2027 Portfolio Domains

Portfolio achievements are assessed across three domains:

1. Knowledge, Skills and Development

• Operative experience

• Surgical experience

2. Patients, Partnership and Communication

• Teaching experience

• Presentations and publications

• Eligible patient information resources

3. Colleagues, Culture and Safety

• Quality improvement projects

• Clinical audits

Portfolio Evidence

Candidates must upload a portfolio index and supporting evidence during the designated upload window (19–24 February 2027). Achievements are assessed using A–E grading indicators, with assessors reviewing the submitted evidence alongside interview performance.

We recommend reviewing the official 2027 portfolio guidance carefully and ensuring all achievements are supported by appropriate documentation.

Visit our CST Portfolio and Self-Assessment Guide for further information on scoring criteria and evidence requirements.

Self-Assessment Guide Link