Fpas FAQs

1. I would like to see how FPAS works; do I have to purchase the program first?

No, if you would like to find out more about FPAS we can arrange a full demonstration in your workplace at a time to suit you. Additionally we believe that one of the best ways to find out about FPAS is to speak to one of our many satisfied administrative users in one of the sites using FPAS.

2. Do I need to install the programme and how do I upgrade to latest version?

FPAS is a web-based online system, which doesn’t require any installation. The system is updated centrally so you will never need to upgrade. We recommend using the latest versions of one of the following browsers: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome or Safari.

3. Does every Foundation School pay the same purchase price?

The basic purchase price is a single tariff, which to make it fair is then adjusted according to the size of the school.

1. How does the data of the applicants and programmes appear on FPAS?

Once we are supplied with the details of all applicants (Spreadsheet file) and the details of the programmes, we upload all the information on the FPAS website and we give you access to check what we have done.

2. How do applicants access the FPAS site?

The system consists of two parts: the Administration Site that allows administrators to configure applicants, programmes, hospitals and allocate them to each other; and the Applicant Site which allows candidates to complete and submit an online application. All candidates, once they have been entered on the system, receive a pin number and a password, which gives them access to the online application. As an applicant you can complete the application form over several sessions.

3. Can I add applicants to the system after data has been imported?

Yes, very easily and with a friendly interface. The passwords and pins are generated automatically once the details are added. Likewise you may add programmes and hospitals and change names.

4. Can FPAS manage applicants with special circumstances?

Yes, the allocation system works either automatically at the press of a button or can be run manually. Applicants with special circumstances can be allocated programmes manually before other applicants are allocated their preferences.

5. Is it possible to score applicants?

Yes, the system has a facility to enter two types of scores and the algorithm gives precedence to one or the other when the final allocation is made.

1. How many types of reports can I generate?

Over 30 administration reports can be generated just at the click of a button. Reports are designed to assist administrators to get up to date information about the allocation system in general or on particular applicant, hospital or a set of programmes.

1. I am an administrator, how many times can I run the allocation process?

It is possible to run the allocation process as many times as you wish. However, although the allocation algorithm criteria will always be followed, in running the allocation the results may vary from one time to another as certain aspects of the process uses random placement.

2. How are the applicants informed of the results?

Once the allocation has been run, the result of each allocation can be emailed to individual applicants. Some Deaneries run a swap shop, which is administered by the Foundation Schools who provide further details on their websites.

3. How do applicants rank their preferences?

Applicants are shown a list of all available programmes and can click the ones they want to add to their list. They can also choose to search by specialty, hospital or name of programme. The applicant can then review their list of selections and change their order by entering a rank number next to each programme. The applicant will only be able to submit their application when the order is correct.