Key Difference – Applicant vs Candidate
Applicant and candidate are two words that are often used in the process of recruitment. Even though many people tend to use these two words interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between applicant and candidate. An applicant is a person who applies for something, typically a job. A candidate is a person who is likely to be selected for a certain position or job. This is the key difference between applicant and candidate.
Who is an Applicant?
An applicant is a person who makes a formal application for something; the term applicant is often used to refer to those who apply for a job. However, there are other occasions where people have to submit applications; for example, submitting an application to obtain a grant, applying for Green Card, applying for a degree course, etc. All these people who submit an application for various causes can be called applicants. Note the meaning and usage of this word in the following example sentences.
Fifteen applicants were selected for the interview.
They had hundreds of applicants for the vacancy, but none of them had the qualifications they were looking for.
She wrote back to all the applicants, thanking them for their time and effort.
All applicants who had the minimum qualifications were called for interviews.
Two of the applicants have stated that they are interested in molecular biology.
In the field of Human resources, the term applicant specifically refers to people who apply to a job.
There were hundreds of applicants for the job.
Who is a Candidate?
The noun candidate has several meanings. Candidate can refer to a person who is nominated for a prize, office, or honor. Candidate can also refer to a person who is likely to gain a certain position. In British English, candidate also refers to a person sitting for an exam. Candidate is sometimes also used interchangeably with applicant. The following example sentences will help you to understand the meaning and usage of this noun better.
Ten candidates were selected for the final interview.
All the candidates standing for the election should sign an agreement prior to the election.
The job will be offered to one of the six candidates the chairman has selected.
The candidates were asked to sit in their assigned places.
The examiners checked candidate’s identification information.
In the field of Human resource, there is a distinct difference between applicant and candidate. Applicants are the people who apply for a job. Candidates are the people who are selected through the applications and called for the interviews.
There were five candidates for the final interview.
What is the difference between Applicant and Candidate?
Definition:
Applicant: An applicant is a person who makes an application for something.
Candidate: A candidate is a person who is likely or suited to undergo or be chosen for something specified.
In HR:
Applicant: An applicant is a person who sends an application for a job.
Candidate: A candidate is a person who has minimum qualifications and is called for interviews.
Word Origins:
Applicant: Applicant is derived from the noun application.
Candidate: Candidate is derived from Latin candidatus – a white gown worn by Roman senators.
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