Applications: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Legal Definition

Q: Can I apply for a job without a formal application?

Yes, some employers allow candidates to submit a resume and cover letter instead of a formal application.

Q: What information is typically required in an application?

Commonly required information includes personal details, work history, education, and references.

Definition & Meaning

An application is a formal request submitted by an individual, often seeking assistance, employment, or admission to an educational institution. In the employment context, applicants can complete job applications through various methods, including online submissions, direct applications at company websites, or in-person visits. When a job application is not required, a resume and cover letter may serve as the applicant's submission. It is important to note that under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers cannot ask pre-employment questions regarding a disability, ensuring that applicants are not discriminated against based on their ability to perform job functions.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Applications are commonly used in various legal contexts, particularly in employment law, education law, and civil rights law. They play a crucial role in processes such as:

Job applications for employment opportunities
Applications for admission to schools or educational programs
Requests for government assistance or benefits

Users can manage these processes using legal templates from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by experienced attorneys to ensure compliance with relevant laws.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of applications:

Job Application: A candidate submits an online application for a marketing position at a company, including their resume and cover letter.
School Admission Application: A student completes an application form for admission to a university, providing academic records and personal statements. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

The following laws are significant in the context of applications:

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Prohibits discrimination based on disability in employment and requires reasonable accommodations.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Application	A formal request for something, such as a job or admission.	Broadly used across various contexts.
Resume	A document summarizing a person's qualifications and work experience.	Specific to job applications; does not include formal requests.
Cover Letter	A letter accompanying a resume, explaining the applicant's interest.	Supplemental to a job application; not a formal request itself.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need to submit an application, consider the following steps:

Identify the type of application required (employment, school admission, etc.).
Gather all necessary documents, such as resumes, transcripts, or reference letters.
Utilize US Legal Forms to find templates that can assist you in completing your application correctly.
If your situation is complex or involves legal rights, consider seeking professional legal advice.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Attribute	Details
Common Uses	Job applications, school admissions, assistance requests
Legal Protections	Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Submission Methods	Online, in-person, mail

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of a job application?

A job application serves as a formal request for employment, allowing candidates to present their qualifications to potential employers.