The phrase "application cycle" refers to the timeframe during which people can submit applications for something, such as applying to college or a job. Full definition
I recently wrote a post about my experience with my very first large credit card application cycle, and subsequently wrote about how I decided to pick the particular cards I picked. (travelcodex.com)
Please refer to our calendar for the next application cycle dates. (in.gov)
Many will tackle problems that don't fit into the regular grant application cycle because they are too experimental or unlikely to produce results soon enough for conventional renewal requirements. (sciencemag.org)