Core Surgical Training mock interviews
Practise the real CST interview with NHS doctors who have sat it, and get your feedback at the end of the call.
Interviewers
The CST interview
Online. Each criterion is marked on a scale from 0 (no evidence) to 6 (outstanding). The management and clinical station has two panel members; the portfolio station has three or four.
Station 1: management and clinical
15 minutesManagement scenario5 minutes
One management scenario, given to you during the interview so you think on your feet.
Clinical scenario 15 minutes
One clinical scenario, given to you during the interview.
Clinical scenario 25 minutes
A second clinical scenario, scored separately on the same criteria.
Station 2: portfolio
15 minutesPrepared presentation3 minutes, then 2 of questions
A presentation you prepare in advance, then questions on it.
Portfolio question 15 minutes
A question on one of the portfolio domains, chosen by the assessor.
Portfolio question 25 minutes
A question on a second domain, also chosen by the assessor.
From NHS England’s published format, which has the full detail.
Frequently asked questions
Everything else, from reviews to reporting a problem, is on our Help page.
Sat the CST interview yourself? Get listed.
We are looking for doctors who have sat on a panel, or come through the process recently, to run mocks here. Tell us about your experience and we will be in touch.






