How to increase your whole-time equivalent (WTE)

What this article is about
This article explains how to request an increase in your LTFT percentage or return towards full-time training.

Who this is for
Doctors and dentists in training who are already training LTFT and want to increase their WTE.

What you need to know

• An increase in WTE must be requested through the correct LTFT process.
• You should normally apply at least 16 weeks before the proposed change date or next rotation change.
• Any increase in working hours is subject to training programme capacity and placement availability.
• Increasing WTE may affect your CCT date, placement length, rota, pay, sponsorship and employer arrangements.
• If you are returning to full-time training, you still need confirmation before your working pattern changes.
• Employers need enough notice to update rota, contract and pay arrangements.
• You should not assume the change is approved until written confirmation is issued.

What to do

1. Discuss the proposed increase with your Training Programme Director or nominated senior educator.
2. Check the application window and deadline.
3. Confirm the WTE percentage you are requesting.
4. Consider how the change may affect CCT date, placements and rota planning.
5. Complete the LTFT application form through the correct route based on below:
   1. Foundation, Medical and Public Health
   2. Dental
6. Provide any supporting information requested.
7. Confirm whether you hold a Skilled Worker or Tier 2 visa.
8. Wait for written confirmation before changing your work pattern.

If this does not work
If the increase cannot be accommodated from the requested date, you may be asked to consider a different start date, placement arrangement or WTE. If you believe there has been an error, raise a query through the published route.

Who to contact
Use the PGMDE Support Portal for LTFT change queries. Contact your Training Programme Director for programme capacity and training discussions. Contact your employer for rota, pay and contract queries.

What HET can and cannot help with
HET can help with

• Processing LTFT increase requests.
• Checking whether programme review is required.
• Updating WTE and CCT date in training systems after approval.
• Confirming administrative next steps.

HET cannot help with

• Guaranteeing that an increase can be accommodated on the requested date.
• Agreeing employer rota patterns or non-working days.
• Making payroll or contract decisions.
• Providing immigration advice.

Related articles

• How to decrease your whole-time equivalent
• Returning from LTFT to full-time training
• How LTFT training affects your CCT date and ARCP

Last reviewed
 Last reviewed: 19 June 2026