Two questions are generally asked by applicants: (1) how long does it take to join and (2) the cost.  The latter is a difficult one to clearly set out as not only do the fees change each year but it also depends upon whether or not you are over or under 25 so it is easier to take each case as it comes.

Below is an indication of the application process but please take this as an approximate guide rather than a definite way of working.  Each application is handled as best suits its particular circumstances.

We also advise that the facility to apply to join Southampton University Lodge on-line, through this site, is principally made available for students and staff.  It must though be made clear that the Lodge is OPEN to all men and NOT RESTRICTED solely to membership of Southampton University or any other institute of higher education.  However if you live in Southampton, or elsewhere, and have nothing to do with the University, nor have a friend or relative in this Lodge, then it is best to make contact with others known to be Freemasons with a view to possibly joining their Lodge.  If they turn out to be members of this Lodge they will personally deal with your application through the Lodge Secretary.  The Grand Lodge website will also be of help in advising you about joining Freemasonry.

If you have applied or are contemplating joining on-line your application will probably be handled this way:

1. The application or expression of interest - from 'Contact Us' - will be received directly by the Secretary .

2. Arrangements will next be made for an initial chat with student members of the Lodge or, in the case of staff, with members who are lecturers.  During this very informal meeting you will be requested to provide referees who have known you outside of university for at least two years.  Please also let us know if any member of your family has or is a Mason and their Lodge name amd number.  You may though wish not to proceed further or to think on joining.

3. After the Secretary has taken references you will be seen by about two experienced Lodge Members who may include Lodge officers (including the Master) and Past Masters plus, where at all possible, another student.  The interview will be at a place and time to everyone's mutual convenience.  At this time your probable suitability will be decided and if it is felt that you will be happy as a Mason, and also that the members will be happy with you amongst them, you will be invited to complete an application form.  Alternatively you may either let us know that you do not wish to join or again, would like to think further on the matter.  As with the informal chat no pressure is put on you to join.  Indeed the Lodge must, by its regulations, ensure that you are joining freely and without any detriment to yourself, your study or work and your family. 

4. Once your application has been accepted after being passed by all Lodge members you will be invited by the Secretary to your initiation ceremony.  In his letter he will also give the cost of joining.  You may, in this Lodge, addditionally join at the same time as another candidate.  The initiation will be at a meeting of the Lodge at the Masonic Centre, Southampton Albion Place, SO14 2DD on any of the first Saturdays of: February, April*, June, October and December.  But based on the current take-up of membership other meetings may be arranged as and when required.  For other Masons visiting this site it should be explained that such meetings would be within the category of 'an emergency' after dispensation to hold them is given by Provincial Grand Lodge.

* April is the date of the Installation meeting for a new Master so it will vary from year to year, based on the individual decision of the ruling Master, if an initiation will also take place. 

Neither Freemasonry in general, nor the Lodge in particular, is in the number's game.  Hence great care is taken to ensure that only men who meet the strict criteria for being a Mason, as set out both in this site and by Grand Lodge, are admitted.  This is not written though to put you off, but for you to show to your parents or partner that you are seeking to join an organisation which  enjoys the highest level of respectability.