• Find the application form here
• The closing date for applications is 5.00pm on 1 December 2008
This advice has been compiled from various sources including speakers from the courses who have given talks to the group and group members who are or have recently got on courses. It is likely that the various courses may take slightly different views on what makes a good application form and which sections of the form are the most important.
• Use the correct font size, spacing and format. The Clearing House are very particular about the format of the application from, make sure you follow their guidelines.
• Remember that your form will be speed read and rated by sets of different people for each course.
• Check and double check for spelling mistakes, typos and grammatical errors.
• Don't be too evangelical. Show that you have a realistic expectation of training and awareness that the course may be difficult.
• Talk to current trainees.
• Talk to people who applied last year (whether they got on a course or not).
• Talk to senior psychologists in your department.
• Ask them to review drafts of your application.
• This is seen as an important section.
• Most forms will say quite similar things, so try to put your own spin on it.
• Try writing your definition, and then replace the words clinical psychologist with another profession (e.g. social worker, teacher). Does the definition fit other professions too? If it does, rewrite your definition until it describes the unique role of a clinical psychologist.
• Don't forget to say why clinical psychology appeals to you.
• Most importantly - be fluent.
• Give details of all relevant jobs.
• Include paid and unpaid.
• Don't add irrelevant jobs (Saturday jobs etc.!).
• Account for any gaps.
• Relate how your experience is relevant to clinical psychology training.
• Research experience is important, so make most of research experience during your degree if you haven't done any in your job.
• Be a busy / enthusiastic / interesting person!
• This page should "tell your story".
• Don't commit to one school of thought.
• Don't use over complicated language/jargon.
• Mention relevant training courses, within a context.
• Put things in a narrative e.g. "I wanted to increase my skills in xxx area .".
• Don't just say what you've done, say what you learned from the experience.
Get as many people as possible to read through your application form. Friends and family can ensure that the form is easy to understand and can check for errors. Psychologists that know you can assess if the form is a good reflection of your ability and experience. Psychologists who do not know you can give valuable opinions as they are seeing the form 'cold' just as a course selector will see it.
Some of the courses use clincal and research vignettes during their interviews. Some examples of these can be found here.
Good Luck!