This article explains what accelerated CCT is, who is eligible to apply, and how applications are considered. It helps resident doctors understand when and how a CCT date may be brought forward, and what evidence is required.

Who this is for

This guidance is for Resident Doctors (RDs) in postgraduate training programmes who believe they may be able to complete their curriculum earlier than the indicative programme duration. 

Example

A resident doctor who has already achieved all required curriculum capabilities ahead of schedule and is approaching their penultimate ARCP.

What you need to know

• Specialty curricula have indicative durations, but some resident doctors may complete the required capabilities earlier than expected. 
• An application to accelerate a CCT date can only be agreed at the penultimate ARCP. 
• Applications made after the penultimate ARCP are not normally considered, as this ARCP is used to identify outstanding capabilities and the time required to complete them.
• In programmes with discrete curriculum stages, ARCP panels may consider exceptional progression to the next stage earlier in the programme. 
• The ARCP Panel makes a recommendation to the Postgraduate Dean (or their nominated deputy) to approve or reject the application. 
• There is no right of appeal against the decision due to the need to plan future rotations and placements. 

Further information

Accelerated CCT is based on demonstrated acquisition of curriculum capabilities, not length of time in training. Evidence must show that all required capabilities have been achieved. 

What to do

1. The Resident Doctor (RD) and Educational Supervisor (ES) discuss suitability for accelerated progression at the penultimate ARCP. 
2. The ES and RD notify the Training Programme Director (TPD) of the intention to apply before the ARCP.
3. The RD compiles evidence of curriculum capability sign‑off and completes the application form via the PSP using the PGMDE Support Portal – Accelerating Programme Completion Date.
4. The ES submits a written statement of support to the TPD and includes this in the ES report. 
5. The ARCP Panel reviews the submitted evidence and the ES statement. 
6. The ARCP Panel decides whether to approve the reduction and documents the justification.
7. If approved, the panel writes to the Head of School for final authorisation. 
8. Once authorised, administrative teams update TIS/local systems and notify placement providers. 

If this doesn’t work

If the application is not approved at the penultimate ARCP, the original CCT date remains in place. There is no appeal process for this.

Who to contact

Submit an application or query via the PSP using the PGMDE Support Portal – Accelerating Programme Completion Date. 

Last reviewed

Last reviewed: 07 April 2026