"apply to its communications program" or "apply its communications program"

Question

Could you please tell me that the author should write

"apply to its communications program"

or

"apply its communications program"?

I am confused about two different meanings of "apply".

1. apply skills to something
2. apply for permition to a university

Also, I am confused about two different meanings of "program".

1. a radio program which is broadcast on radio
2. an educational program = a course of study such as "Undergraduate Programs"

My question is from the following article:

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The university is considering making major changes to the college radio station. Changes would include an expansion of the station’s broadcasting range, which would allow the radio’s programming to reach nearby towns.

(with to)

One goal of the plan is to attract more students to apply to its communications program.

or

(without to)

One goal of the plan is to attract more students to apply its communications program.

Another goal is to provide the university with an extra source of revenue. University officials expect the enhanced radio station to significantly increase the number of listeners, which will in turn encourage businesses to place commercials on the radio.

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Answer 1

There is an important difference:

Apply to [something] refers to submitting an application for something, such as a job, school, or program. Source.

So, that would mean that "apply to its communications program" would imply that students will submit an application to join the program.

On the other hand, applying [something] means to put it to use especially for some practical purpose. Source.

Therefore,"apply its communications program" would suggest that the students will use the program.

Now, as the goal is to increase the number of listeners, I would guess the correct option would be "apply its communications program", meaning the university will encourage students to tune in to the broadcasting to boost numbers and reach such a goal.

Hope that helps!