Deferring your training start date: eligibility and how to apply

What this article is about
This article explains how to request a deferral before starting a training programme.

Who this is for
Applicants or new starters who have accepted a training post but cannot start on the planned date.

What you need to know

• Deferral before starting training is only considered in defined circumstances.
• Deferrals are usually considered for statutory reasons, such as maternity, parental, adoption or sickness absence, or other exceptional circumstances where the process allows.
• You must normally submit your request before your planned start date.
• You may need to provide supporting evidence.
• Deferral is not guaranteed and depends on eligibility, timing, programme requirements and available processes.
• Deferral of training is separate from employer contract, payroll and pre-employment processes.
• Visa or sponsorship implications should be raised through the correct sponsorship route if relevant.
• You should not assume your start date has changed until you receive written confirmation.

What to do

1. Check the deferral guidance issued with your offer or new starter information.
2. Tell the recruitment or HET team as soon as you know you may not be able to start.
3. Submit a deferral request through the correct route.
4. Include your full name, professional registration number if applicable, specialty, accepted post, planned start date, requested deferral date and reason.
5. Provide supporting evidence where required.
6. Tell your employer or future employer if instructed to do so.
7. Wait for written confirmation before making firm arrangements.

If this does not work
If your request is late, unsupported or does not meet the criteria, it may be declined. If your circumstances are urgent or have changed unexpectedly, explain this clearly and provide evidence.

Who to contact
Use the PGMDE Support Portal for HET deferral and training record queries. Use the recruitment support route if your query is still within the recruitment process. Contact your employer for employment contract, payroll or HR queries.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Advising on the deferral request process.
• Checking whether required information has been received.
• Recording approved changes to the training start date.
• Liaising with programme teams where required.

HET cannot help with

• Guaranteeing approval of a deferral.
• Changing national recruitment rules or offer conditions.
• Managing employer contract, pay, pre-employment or HR processes.
• Providing legal, immigration or financial advice.
  

Related articles

• Requesting a deferral during training
• New starter registration: what happens after you accept an offer
• Visa requirements for applicants and who to contact

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026