Proposers and signatures

Ask your proposers early, so your documents are signed and ready when you apply.

Proposers are the people supporting your application. Some RCT forms, including the References form, use the word ‘referee’.

Choose people who know your work

You need two proposers who can comment on the scope and level of your professional practice. Friends and relatives are not acceptable.

One proposer must be your line manager or head of department. At least one must hold relevant professional registration, for example RCT, HCPC, EngC, GMC or NMC. A proposer with another professional status should record it on the form.

Both proposers must be based in the UK. The only exception is for applicants from the Republic of Ireland.

Read the References form (PDF) for the full requirements and the statement of support.

Applying from outside the UK

If you are applying from abroad with a confirmed UK job, one proposer must be your prospective line manager or head of department. The other must be UK-based and able to comment on your scope and level of practice.

I am seeking work or have a job offer

If you do not have a current employer, a former employer can act as a proposer. If you have a job offer, your prospective line manager or head of department acts as a proposer. For the equivalence route, also send a signed copy of your job description with your application. Contact the RCT if you cannot meet these requirements.

Use the right signature for each document

Signature requirements differ between the two routes.