Becoming an RCVS Specialist

Applying for specialist status

Your application will be considered by the RCVS Specialist Subcommittee, which meets in January, April, August and October. Reapplications are normally reviewed in April.

Before you apply, you’ll need to:

• Review the eligibility criteria
• Check the list of recognised specialties
• Confirm your qualifications are eligible

Both new applicants and those re-applying complete the same application form. If you’re an active EBVS® European Veterinary Specialist, a streamlined process applies.

As of 2023, references are no longer required. You must grant the RCVS access to your 1CPD record covering the previous five calendar years, including any relevant CPD from the current year.

You must provide all required information and CPD documentation. Incomplete applications cannot be assessed. 

An application fee applies. Fees are non-refundable.

If your application is approved

Once approved, your name will appear in the RCVS Register of Members, published annually in the autumn.

• Recognition is normally granted for up to five years (European diplomates may vary).
• You must pay an annual administration fee by 1 July each year to stay on the list.
• You’ll be asked each year to self-certify that you remain active in the specialty.
• European specialists will receive RCVS accreditation aligned with their EBVS® accreditation period.

If your application is not approved

If your application is unsuccessful, we’ll write to you with the reasons.

You may submit an appeal within 28 days, addressed to the Registrar. Appeals must:

• Be in writing
• Clearly outline your grounds for appeal
• Not include any new information that the Subcommittee has not previously seen

Appeals are reviewed by the Specialist Appeals Committee, which operates independently of the Subcommittee.

Maintaining your specialist status

Specialist status lasts for up to five years. To continue your listing, you must:

• Submit a reapplication within your allocated window
• Demonstrate that you meet the current criteria (which may differ from previous requirements)
• Continue paying the annual administration fee by 1 July

If you do not reapply in time, your name will be removed from the list in April of the following year.

We send reminders, but reapplication is ultimately your responsibility.