applying to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applying to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of submitting an application for a position, program, or opportunity. Example: "I am applying to several universities for my master's degree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I'm applying to law school.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Like people are applying to Dalton.

The New York Times

Frankly, applying to college terrifies me.

The New York Times

I am applying to many selective colleges.

The New York Times

One of them is applying to university.

The New York Times

Are you applying to any unexpected colleges?

The New York Times

"I had been applying to colleges.

The New York Times - Sports

She is applying to graduate school.

The New York Times

She is now applying to law school.

The New York Times - Sports

Others have started applying to graduate school.

The New York Times

People are applying to more schools.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the purpose of your application, clearly state the specific role, program, or opportunity you are "applying to".

Common error

Ensure you specify what you are "applying to". Avoid vague statements like "I am applying" without mentioning the specific target (e.g., a job, university, grant).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applying to" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as part of a verb phrase to indicate the action of submitting an application or making a formal request to a specific entity. As shown in Ludwig, it connects the applicant with the target of the application.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "applying to" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate the act of submitting an application to a specific entity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide usability. It is most frequently found in news and media, wiki, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral to professional, ensure clarity by specifying exactly what you are "applying to" to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "submitting an application for" or "seeking admission to" can be used depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submitting an application for

Focuses on the formal act of submitting paperwork.

seeking admission to

Specifically relates to applying to educational institutions.

making an application to

A more formal and slightly less common variation.

putting in for

An informal way to express applying, often for jobs or promotions.

registering for

Implies a formal process of enrollment or application.

in relation to

Indicates a connection or relevance to a specific topic.

with regard to

A formal phrase indicating consideration of a particular aspect.

in connection with

Highlights an association or link between two things.

concerning

A shorter, more direct way to indicate relevance.

pertaining to

A formal way of saying 'relating to'.

FAQs

How to use "applying to" in a sentence?

Use "applying to" when you are referring to the action of formally requesting something, such as a job, college, or program. For example, "I am applying to several universities this fall."

What can I say instead of "applying to"?

You can use alternatives like "submitting an application for", "seeking admission to", or "putting in for" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "applying to" or "applying for"?

Both "applying to" and "applying for" are grammatically correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Applying to" is often used with institutions or organizations (e.g., "applying to a university"), while "applying for" is often used with specific positions or opportunities (e.g., "applying for a job").

What's the difference between "applying to" and "applying at"?

"Applying to" is generally used when submitting a formal application to an institution or organization. "Applying at" is typically used when referring to the location where one is applying, but it is less common and can sound awkward (e.g., "applying at the factory"). It's better to rephrase such sentences.