How to get on a training program: advice from over 1,000 Avant members

Fierce competition, limited spots and demanding application processes mean getting onto a training program is likely to be a challenging stage in your journey to practising as a medical specialist.

We asked our members across all stages of their career what advice they could pass on to junior doctors who are working out how to differentiate themselves from the competition.

Over 1,000 of them responded. Here‘s what they had to say.

Be honest to yourself about your motivation and passion

"Genuine passion for the specialty…shows through in everything you do"

“…articulate your passion and demonstrate your suitability."

Before you embark on the gruelling application process for a training program place, take a moment to reflect on your personal motivation and passion.

You might have had your heart set on a particular specialty from day one, but realised during your intern and RMO years the reality is not what you expected. This is not uncommon. Genuine motivation and cultural fit are more important than doing what others expect of you or chasing prestige. The trainee selection process will soon filter out those who are applying for the wrong reasons.

Start building your CV early

Developing an impressive CV takes time, particularly as you’ll want to include extra-curricular achievements as well as academic successes.

“Have a clear 5-year-plan for getting onto training: courses this year, a research project the year after, etc”

“Make a long-term plan. Think ahead and make sure that you have the skills, experiences, research and teaching experience required by the time you apply for a program.”

As you move through intern and RMO rotations in the different clinical disciplines, work out what really interests you and maximise opportunities to expand both your practical skills and gain experience that might impress a selection panel in the future. Make sure you keep a record of what you’ve done, and think about how this demonstrates attributes such as leadership, collaboration, resilience and commitment to learn.

Activity beyond the basics is essential

“Academic performance and relevant clinical experience are important, but equally critical are strong references, evidence of teamwork and communication skills, and involvement in research, teaching, or leadership activities.”

“Build your CV with research/audits/teaching.”

A strong academic record and clinical experience through rotations are an important foundation. However, for the more competitive training programs, the selection committee will be looking at what else you’ve done. Research experience or published papers that demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and commitment to advancing medical knowledge are highly regarded.

“Direct and consistent engagement with the subspecialty in clinical work and research in the years prior to application.”

This might include co-authoring papers in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at conferences, contributing to systematic reviews, or participating in quality improvement projects. Even if you're not first author, being involved in research demonstrates initiative and the ability to work collaboratively on complex projects – qualities essential for specialist training.

Research experience also signals that you understand the importance of lifelong learning and staying current with evolving medical practice, which are core competencies for any specialist.

The importance of networking and referees

“Mentorship and networking are everything – it’s about relationships and reputation.”

You’ve undoubtedly heard the phrase “It’s who you know’” and while this may sound clichéd, the importance of building your network shouldn’t be underestimated. Start developing relationships early during your intern year and, as you work through each rotation, take a moment to reflect on the variety of people you work with. You’ll probably have made valuable connections with more people than you realise.

Building these relationships is about more than showing up, you need to prove you’re always looking to learn more and leave a positive impression in every interaction.

“The ability to interact effectively with consultants and other members of the team, as well as nursing and allied health staff – all of whom now contribute to references for programs.”

Also remember that stand-out references can make or break your application:
“Choose referees who know your work personally and can speak authentically about your abilities.”

Geographic flexibility

"Geographic flexibility – being willing to go where the positions are available"

" …ability to be flexible with locations/moving frequently"

Being willing to relocate doesn’t necessarily mean packing your bags and moving away from your family and friends long term. But you might need to consider a longer commute or taking up short-term rotations in regional or rural hospitals, even just for a few months. This flexibility not only broadens your clinical exposure, it demonstrates adaptability and independence, qualities highly valued by selection panels.

Use the interview to demonstrate your passion

Securing an interview for a specialist training program is a significant milestone. The interview panel won’t just be testing your clinical knowledge, it’s an opportunity for them to understand whether you have the personal qualities needed to succeed in their training program and eventual practice.

“…clearly explain why you want to practice in this specialty area and what you bring to it”

“Be aware of what training program you are applying for and make sure you demonstrate an understanding and embodiment of the principles they stand for in their trainees.”

While performing well under the pressure of an interview situation comes naturally for some people, for others it takes a lot of preparation. Be sure to carefully examine the college’s selection criteria, and craft your responses based on their specific criteria.