A summary of the changes made to the application process for the 2026 Foundation Programme.
Pre-allocation Application Process
There have been changes made to some Pre-allocation criteria for UKFP 2026.
Parent or legal guardian – no change
This Parent or legal guardian criterion remains the same. Applicants can apply to be pre-allocated to any foundation school due to their current personal circumstances.
Significant caring responsibilities – changed to Primary carer
This criterion has reverted to Primary Carer only. Applicants will be required to submit a care plan as part of the evidence required for their application. Pre-allocation will only be to the foundation school local to the medical school to reflect the current personal circumstances.
Health condition or disability – no change
This Health condition or disability criterion remains the same. Applicants can apply to be pre-allocated to any foundation school due to their current personal circumstances.
Educational circumstances – removed
The Educational circumstances criterion has been completely removed.
Widening Participation – changed to local foundation school only
Pre-allocation will only be to the foundation school local to the medical school to reflect the current personal circumstances.
Proof of address – driving licence removed
Driving licences will no longer be accepted as proof of address (this includes full and provisional)
Applicant guidance moved to web format
In line with our organisational website and accessibility guidelines, applicant guidance is gradually being moved out of Word and PDF documents and directly onto the website pages. This is an ongoing and large piece of work.
For UKFP 2026 the following guides will be moved onto website pages:
– UKFP 2026 Pre-allocation guidance
– UKFP 2026 National Appeal Process guidance
Some information will remain as PDF documents for the 2026 application process.