Meaning & use
application for or to
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
A phrase used to ask or explain which preposition ('for' or 'to') follows the noun 'application'.
Grammar: This is a question about usage, not a single word. The choice depends on meaning: 'for' introduces the goal, 'to' introduces the receiver.
Patterns
- application for a job
- application to a university
- application for admission
Should I write 'application for' or 'application to' in this sentence?
The phrase 'application for or to' often appears in grammar searches.
Many learners confuse 'application for or to' because both prepositions are common.
Common combinations
- application for a job
- She sent her application for a job at the bank.
- application to a university
- His application to a university was accepted.
- application for admission
- The application for admission must be submitted by January.
- application to the committee
- They made an application to the committee for funding.
Word family
Commonly confused: application for or to or apply for/to?
application for or to vs apply for/to
The same preposition rule applies to the verb: apply for a thing, apply to a place.
Practice
Which sentence is correct?
Choose one answer.
Use 'application for' when you are trying to get something like a scholarship. 'Application to' would be used for the institution, e.g., 'application to the university'.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “application for or to”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.