Apply
Use this pattern when a user needs to apply for something and receive a decision from a service. Examples include applying for:
- a licence or permit
- a grant or fund
- planning permission
- a benefit or payment
- a certificate or exemption
Applications are usually assessed against defined criteria. A service may approve, reject or request further information before making a decision.
In some services, users may need to register before they can apply.
Characteristics of this service type
Application services typically involve:
- collecting information from users
- assessing eligibility or suitability
- gathering evidence and supporting documents
- operational or expert decision-making
- notifying users of outcomes
- allowing users to track progress
Unlike registration services, application services are primarily focused on reaching a decision about a user's request.
Common journey patterns
Application services often include a combination of other service patterns.
Before applying, users may need to:
- learn about the service
- check eligibility or suitability
- understand what evidence they need to provide
- estimate costs, payments or entitlements
During an application, users may need to:
- log in or create an account
- provide information about themselves or their organisation
- upload evidence
- prove their identity or authority
- add references or supporting information
- pay a fee
- confirm the information they have entered
After submitting an application, users may need to:
- receive updates
- check progress
- respond to requests for further information
- receive a decision
- challenge a decision
- appeal a decision
- make a complaint
Not all application services will require all of these patterns.
Common solutions used in this pattern
Using common solutions can reduce delivery time, improve consistency and help teams benefit from proven approaches across the Scottish public sector.
| User need | Common component |
|---|---|
| Learn about a service | mygov.scot, gov.scot, Design System |
| Create an account and verify identity | ScotAccount |
| Complete application forms | GOV.UK Forms |
| Upload evidence | SG Cloud |
| Recieve updates and communications | GOV.UK Notify |
| Pay an application fee | GOV.UK Pay |
| Check the progress of an application | Status checker services |
Relationship to other service patterns
Apply and Register are closely related service patterns.
Use the Apply pattern when the primary purpose is to request a decision, entitlement, licence, permit, grant or benefit.
Use the Register pattern when the primary purpose is to create or maintain an ongoing record or relationship with a service.
Some services use both patterns. For example, a user may need to register with a service before they can apply for a licence, permit or accreditation.