Pre-allocation

Applicant guidance for the 2026 Pre-allocation process

This guidance provides information about the pre-allocation process for the 2-year UK Foundation Programme. This includes information about each criterion, completion and submission of the application form on Oriel, and acceptable proof of address. These pages will be updated on an annual basis, ahead of the application window.

Non-urgent advice: UKFP 2026: Update on the release of Pre-allocation application outcomes

Further to the announcement on 19 December 2025 which confirmed that there would be a delay to the release of Pre-allocation application outcomes, we can now confirm that outcomes will not be released to applicants until the new year in 2026.

We would like to sincerely apologise for this delay and the inconvenience this may cause you. The delay is due to unforeseen circumstances outside of the control of the UKFPO.

The date that outcomes will be released in 2026 will be made available as soon as possible and will be published on the front page of the UKFPO website. 

Please regularly refer to the UKFPO website for further updates. We thank you for your patience.

Introduction

An overview of the Pre-allocation process.

2026 Key changes

A summary of changes made to the application process

Pre-allocation timeline

Important dates and deadlines

The criteria and application forms

Guidance and application forms for each criterion

General application guidelines

General information and guidance to adhere to for all criterion

The application form

General information about the pre-allocation application form

Supporting signatories

General information about supporting signatories

Submitting an application

How to submit your application on Oriel and attach supporting evidence

Proof of address

A list of the evidence accepted as proof of address

National review of applications

The application review process

Application outcomes

The process of releasing outcomes to applicants

Next steps if approved for pre-allocation

Contact with your foundation school about match to group and programme

Withdrawing from the pre-allocation process

How to withdraw your application including the deadline

Changes in circumstances

Guidance on changes to your circumstances after the application process/allocation

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about pre-allocation