Should I apply this year?

Deferrals, work experience and other study

The exact starting date varies from course to course but they all start between early September and early October and have only one intake each year.

Have you already done NHS-funded training?

You may not be able to apply this year

If you have already received NHS funding for training in the psychological professions you may need to wait before you can apply for clinical psychology training.

Deferred entry

There is no system of deferred entry. If you already know that you cannot start in autumn 2026, please do not apply.

Courses may sometimes allow deferred entry in unforeseen circumstances but this is not guaranteed.

Work experience

Some courses require a minimum length of time for relevant experience (e.g. 12 months) before you apply.

Other degrees

Universities will not usually let you enrol on a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology if you are already enrolled on another qualification e.g. a PhD or masters.

If you have any outstanding requirements from another qualification when the clinical course starts, you may have to withdraw from that qualification to be able to start or continue your Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Last updated:

1st September 2025