We are a unique global network of changemakers and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds who are committed to positively impacting social change.

Our Fellows are at the heart of the RSA and have been at the forefront of significant social impact for over 260 years. Fellowship is open to all over the age of 18, and who share our vision and values.

The process

People apply to become Fellows in several ways:

• The Fellowship Development Team sometimes identifies people who have made contributions to social change and asks them to join the RSA
• Our Fellows and staff nominate people they know who share our vision and values
• Partner organisations also aligned to our values may put their members forward

A number of people join us by starting an online application themselves. You do not need to be nominated to join.

Everyone completes the same online form whether they have been nominated or not. All applications are treated in the same way, with the same criteria followed.

This application form should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete and has three parts:

• Personal details and contact information
• Short Q&A about your interests and alignment with our values
• Payment details for a one-off registration fee of £75 and an annual subscription of £198.

If you have independently started an application via our website, we collect information about two referees in the form to support your application. Further information on why we need this is below.

Once you have completed the application, we will get back to you within 2 working days to confirm your Fellowship. Your payment will then be processed and you will begin receiving a series of welcome emails. We also send out welcome packs within 4 weeks of joining.

The cost

All Fellows pay an annual charitable subscription to the RSA of £198. Most Fellows with UK bank accounts choose to pay this in monthly instalments of £16.5. Alongside the annual subscription, all new Fellows pay a one-off registration fee of £75. This payment helps cover the set-up and on-boarding of your Fellowship.

No payment is taken until after your application has been approved. 

We will securely store your payment details and only take payment once your application to join the RSA Fellowship has been approved by the admissions panel.  

If you are unable to make the full subscription, please get in touch as we may be able to offer you financial support. 

Life Fellowship 

We also welcome you to join us as a Life Fellow through a one-time subscription of £3,900 or £2,340 for those over 65.

The Admissions Panel  

Our admissions panel comprises of two fellowship councilors and an RSA trustee. Within 14 days of joining Fellowship we reserve the right to get back in touch if the admissions panel have any concerns about your Fellowship.