Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - candidate

 noun  Etymology: Latin candidatus, from candidatus clothed in white, from candidus white; from the white toga worn by ~s for office in ancient Rome  Date: 1600  1.  a. one that aspires to or is nominated or qualified for an office, membership, or award a ~ for governor  b. one likely or suited to undergo or be chosen for something specified a ~ for surgery  2. a student in the process of meeting final requirements for a degree