# apply for sth

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/apply-for-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

To make a formal request for something, like a job, a passport, or a place at a university.

For teachers: To make a formal, usually written, request for something, such as a job, a loan, or a position.

## Examples

- He wants to apply for a new job.
- She is filling out the forms to apply for a scholarship to study abroad.
- After years of meticulous research, the scientist was finally ready to apply for the prestigious grant that would fund her groundbreaking experiment.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I want to apply a job." but "I want to apply for a job." — The preposition 'for' is required to introduce the thing being requested.

## Usage notes

- Typically followed by the thing you want, such as a job, a visa, a loan, or a position.
- Teaching tip: Contrast 'apply for' (requesting a thing) with 'apply to' (submitting an application to an institution, e.g., 'apply to a university').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.