As we move into 2026, the Core Surgical Training (CST) interview process will continue to include the Portfolio Station — a format that has returned to its pre-pandemic structure. This means candidates will face a 10-minute portfolio review followed by a focused 10-minute virtual interview discussing their evidence.

At PrepSurg.co.uk, we’ve refreshed our question bank with up-to-date preparation materials and example responses tailored to the Portfolio Station format. Here’s a breakdown of the latest changes and how best to get ready.

What’s New for the 2026 Portfolio Station?

If you receive an invitation to interview, you will be asked to submit an index page categorising your portfolio evidence across key domains. Each category will be labelled with letters from A to E, clearly matching the uploaded documents.

During the interview:

• Interviewers will first review your portfolio independently for 10 minutes without your presence.

• Following this, there will be a 10-minute virtual interview where you’ll answer questions related to two portfolio domains, spending approximately 5 minutes on each.

• The domains and questions are selected in real-time by the assessors based on your submitted evidence.

• Your overall portfolio score will combine the assessor’s evaluation of your documentation and the quality of your answers.

• Answers are scored on a 0–6 scale, where 0 means no evidence and 6 represents outstanding demonstration of skills and knowledge.

This marks a significant shift from the pre-pandemic process where portfolio questions were primarily clarifying rather than scored components of the interview.

Portfolio Domains to Focus On

You should be prepared to discuss your achievements in any two of the following areas:

• Surgical Experience and Commitment

• Quality Improvement (QI) and Audit

• Publications and Presentations

• Teaching Experience

Our updated PrepSurg  CST question bank includes sample questions and model answers tailored to these domains to help you prepare.

How to Prepare Your Portfolio and Answers

• Organise Your Evidence Thoughtfully:
  Choose your strongest and most relevant documents for each domain. Keep everything clear and concise, as interviewers have limited time to review your portfolio. A well-organised portfolio makes a strong first impression and maximises your scoring potential.
• Craft Clear, Structured Responses:
  Prepare to summarise your key achievements confidently and succinctly. Use a structured approach such as the CAMP mnemonic (Clinical, Academic, Management, Personal) to demonstrate breadth and depth of experience. For example:
  “I have demonstrated surgical commitment clinically through hands-on theatre experience, academically by publishing audits, in management via committee involvement, and personally by mentoring juniors.”
• Highlight Impact and Future Application:
  End your answers by reflecting on how your achievements will contribute to your development as a surgical trainee and future consultant.
• Practice Your Delivery:
  Rehearse your answers so they are polished but natural. Starting with a strong opening statement and clear signposting will help interviewers follow your narrative easily.

Navigating the Interview

This is the first year that portfolio answers will be directly scored, so while follow-up questions are somewhat unpredictable, you should be ready to expand on your experiences with personal reflections and insights.

Stay calm and professional throughout, even when addressing areas that might be contested or unclear. Demonstrating your genuine passion and enthusiasm for surgery can leave a lasting positive impression.

References and Further Reading

• HEE Core Surgical Training Interview Guidance

• Overview of Core Surgery Training and Interviews