applicant

An applicant is a person who submits an application to obtain something, such as employment, admission to an educational program, a visa, a grant, a license, or membership in an organization. The term emphasizes the role of the person as someone seeking an opportunity rather than as a recipient of an outcome.

In employment and education contexts, applicants typically complete an application form or provide a résumé and supporting documents, and may undergo interviews or testing. In legal contexts, the term is used for the party who initiates proceedings or seeks a remedy before a court or tribunal; in some jurisdictions this person is called the petitioner or applicant, and the opposing party is the respondent.

The evaluation of applications generally follows stated criteria, such as qualifications, experience, fit with requirements, and compliance with rules. Applicants are usually informed of decisions and, if unsuccessful, may appeal, reapply, or be placed in a candidate pool for future opportunities. In human resources, organizations commonly use an applicant tracking system to manage submissions, screening, and communication.

Rights and responsibilities of applicants include providing accurate information, complying with application procedures, and understanding privacy and data protection policies. Applicants may have rights to access, correct, or contest decisions in accordance with applicable law and policy.