fill out an application

Meaning

To complete a form or document by writing in the required information, such as your name, address, and qualifications. It is commonly used when applying for jobs, visas, or memberships.

Examples

• You need to fill out an application online before the deadline.

  You need to fill out an application online before the deadline.

• It took me over an hour to fill out an application for the new job.

  It took me over an hour to fill out an application for the new job.

• Please fill out an application and hand it to the receptionist.

  Please fill out an application and hand it to the receptionist.

• She is currently helping her brother fill out an application for college.

  She is currently helping her brother fill out an application for college.

• Make sure to check your spelling when you fill out an application.

  Make sure to check your spelling when you fill out an application.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I need to fill an application.

  ✓ I need to fill out an application.

  'Fill' alone means to make something full (like a glass of water). You must use 'fill out' (or 'fill in') for documents and forms.

• ✗ He filled up the job application.

  ✓ He filled out the job application.

  'Fill up' is used for completing the capacity of something, like a gas tank. Use 'fill out' for documents.

Related Expressions

Practice

• To apply for the work visa, you must first ___.

  💡 Complete the official document with your details.

  Show answer

  fill out an application

• The HR manager asked me to ___ on their careers website.

  💡 Complete a job form online.

  Show answer

  fill out an application