What’s the difference between “apply to”, “apply with”, and “apply for”? Read on to learn how to distinguish between these phrases and use them correctly.
Apply To
“Apply to” generally means to make a request to a specific place or for a specific position.
Examples:
- I would like to apply to Harvard University.
- The rules don’t apply to everyone equally.
- She decided to apply to the marketing department.
Apply With
“Apply with” is often used to indicate the means or items used when making an application. It signifies what you should bring or use when you are applying.
Examples:
- Please apply with a detailed CV and a cover letter.
- You can apply with the reference number provided.
- She decided to apply with the recommendation from her previous employer.
Apply For
“Apply for” is used when you want to make a request for something specific, like a job, permission, grant, or visa.
Examples:
- I want to apply for a passport.
- John decided to apply for the manager’s position at the new store.
- They are going to apply for a research grant.
Quiz: Test Your Knowledge
1. Which phrase would you use if you are seeking employment at Google?
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
2. “I wish to _____ a visa to travel to Japan.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
3. “Please _____ the online form provided on our website.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
4. “If you have any certificates, you should definitely _____ them.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
5. “She is going to _____ Yale next year.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
6. “You can _____ the given code to get the discount.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
7. “I need to _____ permission to park my car there.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
8. “To join the club, _____ a written statement about why you’re interested.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
9. “The same principle doesn’t _____ older models.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
10. “To get the job, _____ your best foot forward.”
a) Apply to
b) Apply with
c) Apply for
Answers:
- a) Apply to
- c) Apply for
- a) Apply to
- b) Apply with
- a) Apply to
- b) Apply with
- c) Apply for
- b) Apply with
- a) Apply to
- b) Apply with
Related Reading: Parts of Speech – Prepositions
