apply by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply by" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a deadline for submitting an application or request. Example: "Please make sure to apply by the end of the month to be considered for the scholarship."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

June graduates — apply by February.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

September graduates — apply by June.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

February graduates — apply by September.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Please apply by completing this form.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Transfer Applicants should apply by March 9.

Princeton University

Learn more and apply by August 15.

Columbia University

Please apply by Sunday, September 23 , 2018

Columbia University

Please apply by visiting: this form.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Other declaration restrictions may apply by major.

University of California, Berkeley

He was told to apply by computer at www.FBI.gov.

The New York Times

The new laws would then apply by 2019 the latest.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply by", ensure the date is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Please apply by January 15, 2026".

Common error

Avoid using imprecise timeframes with "apply by", such as "Please apply by the end of the week". Provide a specific date instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply by" functions as a directive, typically found in instructions or announcements that involve deadlines. As Ludwig showcases, it sets a temporal boundary for application submissions, guiding individuals to take action before a specific date.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

50%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apply by" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a submission deadline, as validated by Ludwig. Predominantly found in academic and news-related contexts, it carries a professional or neutral tone. For clarity, always specify the date, and be mindful of using precise timeframes. For alternatives, consider "submit application before" or "application deadline", among others. Based on Ludwig, it's important to provide clear deadlines for the user.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit application before

Focuses on the submission action and provides a deadline.

application deadline

Highlights the deadline aspect, omitting the action of applying.

file application prior to

Emphasizes the formal act of filing and sets a time limit.

ensure application is received by

Stresses the importance of receipt before a certain date.

applications must be in by

Specifies a requirement for applications to be submitted.

use this method to apply

Highlights a specific method for application.

complete application via

Focuses on the completion of the application through a certain means.

method of application is

Identifies how one should apply.

submit through

Focuses on the channel through which the application should be submitted.

application procedure

Refers to the steps required to apply.

FAQs

How do I use "apply by" in a sentence?

Use "apply by" to specify the deadline for submitting an application. For example, "You must apply by July 31st to be considered for the scholarship."

What is another way to say "apply by"?

You could use phrases like "submit application before", "application deadline", or "file application prior to" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "you must apply before" instead of "apply by"?

Yes, "you must "apply before"" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning, emphasizing that the application needs to be submitted prior to a specific date.

What's the difference between "apply by" and "applications must be in by"?

"Apply by" is a more direct instruction. "Applications must be "in by"" is a more formal way of stating the deadline.