Stock image of two doctors looking at scan of patient's ribs)

Paediatric Surgery


How to apply

Paediatric Surgery intake 2026

Please note: There will be no intake for Paediatric Surgery for 2026.

There are two entry routes to Specialty Training in RCSI:

Direct progression from CST 

or

Equivalent standards route (ESR) – this route applies for trainees who are unsuccessful at progressing direct from CST; may have previously undertaken the CST programme; or may have completed equivalent training elsewhere.

Please note

  • Each surgical specialty is involved in the pre-scoring of applications and may undertake a shortlisting of applicants prior to interview.
  • As there are a limited number of places in Specialty Training programmes, entry is competitive.
  • RCSI works in collaboration with the HSE/NDTP to determine appointment numbers – this is subject to change year-on-year.
  • All applicants should familiarise themselves with the HSE's English language requirements information, guidance on the allocation of places and the guidance on eligibility documentation in advance of completing their application.

Progression data

We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the training progression data which includes information around the progression of trainees from each stage of training – particularly for their appointment onto the CST programme and progression to specialty training.