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Certificate of Completion of Training

Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) is the route for doctors who have completed a full GMC-approved training programme. 

The Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) route is only suitable for doctors who have completed the Ophthalmic Specialist Training (OST) programme in the UK.  CCT holders are eligible for entry onto the General Medical Council (GMC) Specialist Register to practice as ophthalmology consultants in the NHS.

How to apply for CCT

Please read our guidance document carefully and, as the first step of the process, only apply for your CCT after the final ARCP Outcome 6 has been awarded.  The GMC will email you separately to invite you to apply online.      

The GMC will only issue the certificate after receiving the RCOphth’s recommendation for CCT.   The date on the certificate will reflect the date of issue rather than the date when training was completed.

All applications for a CCT must be made to the GMC within 12 months of a doctor’s expected completion of training date.  After 12 months from the expected completion of training date, doctors will only be able to apply for the Portfolio pathway (formerly known as CESR) to get entry onto the Specialist Register.

Accelerated training

Requests will only be considered where trainees due to follow the OST Curriculum 2010 until completion are able to demonstrate to be on course to acquire the necessary skills to become an independent practitioner earlier than the expected date.  Resources to support accelerated training requests are in the section at the bottom of this page.

Resources to support applications

Upload these documents to the Additional Evidence tab of your RCOphth e-Portfolio in support of your application for CCT.

CCT application form

This application form must be signed and uploaded to the Additional Evidence tabs of your RCOphth e-Portfolio.

Cumulative data sheet

This data sheet is a summary of your Ophthalmic Specialist Training Logbook, including Supervision of Juniors and Asssisted.

50 consecutive cases cataract audit guidance

It is a curriculum requirement to present a 50 consecutive cases cataract audit paper (with comparison to national standards) accompanied by the relevant raw data. This document should be read alongside the 'Example model 50 cases cataract audit'.

Continuous cataract complications audit letter

It is a curriculum requirement to maintain a continuous audit of cataract complications from the beginning of training. This letter should be read alongside the 'Continuous cataract complications audit synopsis template'.

Cataract Audit requirements (2016)

Letter confirming GMC's approval regarding the RCOphth’s proposal to mandate completion of the cataract audit within three calendar years of CCT.

Compulsory use of the Eye Logbook

It has been mandatory since August 2011 that all OST trainees use the RCOphth Eye Logbook to record their surgical experience and training.

Accelerated CCT

This section applies exclusively to trainees expected to follow OST Curriculum (2010) until completion, either by choice (as given if entering the OST6 stage at the point of transition) or because they will be in their final stage pre-CCT (OST7) in August 2024, whether in full or less-than-full time training.

Accelerated Training guidance

This guidance provides information regarding the process to apply for accelerated training - OST Curriculum (2010) only.

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Education in Ophthalmology

Education in Ophthalmology is the development of knowledge, practical skills and professional competencies, and this includes personal and professional development.

Find out more