applicant
noun (countable)
UK/ˈæp.lɪ.kənt/US/ˈæp.lɪ.kənt/
A person who applies for something, such as a job, a place at a school, or a loan.
Example Sentences
There were over a hundred applicants for the position of software engineer.
She is a strong applicant for the scholarship due to her excellent academic record.
The university received thousands of applicants for its prestigious program.
As an applicant, you need to submit your resume and cover letter.
The hiring manager reviewed all the applicants' qualifications before making a decision.
Being a top applicant requires not only good grades but also relevant experience.
They shortlisted ten applicants for the final interview round.
The applicant was invited to attend an interview to further discuss their suitability for the role.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Someone who officially requests or applies for something.An “applicant” is typically an individual submitting necessary forms, credentials, or materials to be considered for a position, service, or benefit. Common examples include job applicants sending résumés to prospective employers, college applicants completing admissions essays, or visa applicants submitting documents to immigration authorities. In each case, the applicant aims to prove their eligibility or suitability, often competing with others for limited spots or resources.Whether seeking a job, scholarship, or business license, applicants must usually follow established guidelines. They may provide personal information, references, or statements of purpose showcasing their abilities, experience, or background. Employers or organizations then evaluate applicants based on criteria like skills, academic records, or financial stability. The term stresses the proactive role of the person initiating the request: the applicant is the one who wants something—be it acceptance, approval, or a next-level opportunity. By recognizing what an applicant must do (gather records, craft a persuasive application, attend an interview), you highlight the diligence and preparedness required. In daily conversation, “applicant” also connotes someone in a waiting phase, anticipating results or a decision from a governing body or selection committee.
Alternatives
Depending on the context, “candidate” might be a near synonym, especially in job searches or political arenas. “Candidate” can imply someone who has already passed an initial qualification step or who is actively vying for a particular role. “Prospect” or “contender” sometimes appear when discussing a pool of strong possibilities, emphasizing competitiveness or potential. Meanwhile, words like “petitioner” or “claimant” appear more in legal and formal contexts—“petitioner” refers to someone who files a petition (e.g., in court), and “claimant” denotes an individual making a claim for benefits or compensation. If you want a broad, generalized term for someone requesting or seeking something, “applicant” remains the clearest, capturing the formal aspect of applying while leaving it open-ended about what they’re applying for (jobs, grants, housing, etc.).
Writing
When writing about an “applicant” in formal documents—like business memos, official reports, or academic papers—be direct and specific about the process: “Applicants must submit a cover letter and three references by the deadline.” This type of sentence clarifies expectations and responsibilities. If you’re drafting an evaluation or assessment report, you might say, “The committee reviewed all applicants based on merit and financial need.” In legal or administrative contexts, define the selection criteria or relevant laws: “Per Section 15, all applicants must be at least eighteen years old.” Stating these rules provides transparency, showing that decisions rest on established guidelines. In research studies or policy reviews, specifying demographics of the applicant pool—like age, location, educational background—illustrates who is seeking a particular benefit or position. Precision in describing the application process not only informs applicants but also ensures fairness and consistency.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, “applicant” surfaces mostly in discussions about job hunting or college admissions, often focusing on personal experiences or advice. For example, you might hear, “I’m one of ten applicants interviewing for the marketing role,” or “My sister’s an applicant for three different grad programs.” Friends might exchange tips—“As a job applicant, make sure to follow up after submitting your résumé.” People sometimes talk about applicant pools, especially if the stakes or competition are high. “The applicant pool this year is crazy—hundreds of people applied for just two positions.” Or they might note unique demands: “They’re screening applicants based on coding challenges.” In these everyday uses, “applicant” conveys the idea that you or someone you know is in the middle of a selection process, often dealing with anticipation, preparation, and possibly some nerves. Typically, the tone is casual yet mindful that you’re navigating a formal process.
Etymology
The word “applicant” derives from the Latin verb “applicare,” meaning “to attach to” or “to apply,” sharing roots with terms like “application” and “applicable.” In Middle English, the noun form surfaced as someone who applies—a person who directs their efforts or requests toward a particular goal. Over time, “applicant” became a standard designation for individuals seeking acceptance, permission, or favor in various domains—employment, academia, government, or more. The evolution reflects how societies organize processes of selection, from job recruitment to institutional admissions, with the applicant providing formal evidence of fitness or eligibility. This history underscores how the act of “applying” has long been tied to demonstrating readiness or suitability for a sought-after opportunity.
