10+ Soho Application Tips (2026): How to Get Into Soho House — from a member
Looking for Soho House application tips? Here’s everything you need to know about how to get into the Soho House — from a member!
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Looking to apply to be a member of the Soho House?
The Soho House is known across the world as one of the best exclusive communities for creatives, but how do you become a member?
In this post, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about applying for a Soho House membership, plus tons of application tips to give yourself the best shot of getting in, including:
- A Step-by-Step Application Guide to the Soho House
- 10 tips to make your Soho House Application stand out
- Soho House Application FAQ
from a member!
P.S. – I highly suggest reading my sister post Soho House Membership: Everything You Need to Know for a full Soho House breakdown before applying for your membership!
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
How to Become a Soho House Member: Application Advice (from a member)
Why Should I Become a Soho House Member?
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Bangkok
The biggest reasons for applying for a Soho House membership include gaining access to the infamous Soho Houses, exclusive events and workshops, and a plethora of networking opportunities.
Not to mention many of the houses offer wellness facilities such as a pool and gym that are automatically included in your membership.
Overall if you’re a creative yearning a new workspace and a community of like-minded individuals, this is for you.
How Long Does the Soho House Application Take to Complete?
Photo Courtesy: Soho River House
Despite popular belief, the Soho House application itself is pretty straightforward and only takes 15-20 minutes.
But from personal experience, to prep all your answers and application information I suggest setting aside 1 hour to do your Soho House application from start to finish.
Membership Types: Applying for the Soho House
Photo Courtesy: Babington House
I go over each membership type in loads of detail in my Soho House Membership guide, but here’s a quick overview of each:
➡️ Local House or Every House: For the majority of the memberships you’ll have the option to choose between one local house or all houses, which in the name, gives you access to only one of the Soho Houses or all of them. Personally, unless you’re super keen to save $$ on your membership, I would choose ‘All Houses’.
➡️ Soho House Membership: gives you access to all Soho House membership perks including house access, events, onsite facilities and exclusive Soho House discounts.
➡️ Under 27 Membership: the same as a Soho House membership but at a reduced rate if you’re under 27. These discounts last until you’re 31 so if you’re on the fence about applying I suggest doing it now!
➡️ The Soho Friends Membership: for those that don’t quite fit the Soho House membership a Soho Friends membership gives you access to certain areas of the houses and events, and is significantly cheaper than a normal membership.
➡️ City Without Houses Membership: for those that don’t have a Soho House in their city this membership allows you to attend and network at Soho Houses local events and gains you access to the houses when you travel.
➡️ Soho Works Membership: A work-specific membership for creative professionals adjacent to the Soho House brand, only available in certain locations.
Step-by-Step Application Guide to the Soho House
Photo Courtesy: Electric House
The first step to becoming a Soho House member is applying, so time to submit that application my friend! Here’s a step-by-step guide:
⮕ Go to sohohouse.com/apply
From here you’ll be asked to make an account, which you’ll need to apply for your membership.
Once you’ve made your account this is what you’ll see!
⮕ Choose Your Membership
Next, you’ll need to choose your membership type based on your location and a ‘Local House’ membership or ‘Every House’ membership.
You’ll also choose your payment term for your membership here, and if you’re under 27 (they’ll ask you for your birthday when you make an account) you’ll see the discount applied on your membership fee.
⮕ Fill in Your Profile
From here you’ll need to fill in some personal bits including your mobile number, nationality, how you identify yourself, and a clear headshot.
You’ll also need to fill in some personal details about where you work, the type of work you do, what you do and your work email.
⮕ Tell Soho House About You
Now’s your time to shine! And tell Soho House all about how you’d make an amazing member 😊
They’ll what to know your reasoning for applying, your creative interests, a description of your job, your passions, hobbies, and how you’d utilize the membership to the fullest. Be thorough!
In the ‘About you’ section they’ll also ask you for your social handles and website links, just fill in as many as you have.
In this section you’ll also be asked if you know an existing Soho House member that can refer you, if you do, put their name and email; if you don’t, just switch the toggle ‘I don’t know any Soho House members yet’.
⮕ Answer their Diversity and Inclusion Section
Soho House aims to be as diverse as possible so if any of the diversity and inclusion categories apply to you, make sure to fill it in!
P.S. – Not fitting into any of the categories doesn’t lessen your chance of getting into the Soho House.
⮕ Go Over the House Rules
The House Rules are super important to the Soho House (especially ones like no taking photos in the houses), make sure you read all of them carefully before you submit your application.
⮕ Choose Your Payment Terms and Submit Your Application
And that’s it! Your last step will be to provide your payment info and submit your application.
It’s here you can confirm whether you want your payment term to be monthly or annually so make sure you do so before you submit — as the money will come out of your account once you’re accepted.
P.S. – Don’t forget you’ll need to pay an Induction fee, but this can be redeemed at their restaurants upon joining.
💭 What happens after I submit my Soho House application?
After your application is submitted it could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to hear back as applicants are reviewed by the Membership team in their quarterly meetings.
From my experience (which I think was quite lucky) I was accepted into the Soho House within two weeks of applying in late December, 2022. But it truly varies person by person!
10+ Soho House Application Tips & Advice
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Copenhagen
Before you submit your Soho House application, here are some things to keep in mind when you apply to ace your submission (from a Soho member…i.e. me!).
And yes, if you’re wondering ‘What should I write in my Soho House application?’ — we’ll get there!
1. Decide Why You Want to Be a Soho House Member
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Rome
Before you even think about filling in the Soho House application form, take a pause.
“Why do you want to be a part of the Soho House?”
Whether you’re an artist looking for inspiration, a creative tech entrepreneur in search of collaboration, or a designer wanting to share ideas, knowing your motive will make applying for the Soho House x10 easier.
If you’re stuck on ideas you can definitely tie it back to a desire to elevate your personal and professional growth, which Soho House is perfect for!
Whatever your reason, it’s essential to be genuine and provide details as Soho House values authenticity.
2. Prepare Your Application Answers in Advance: Crafting a Winning First Impression
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Barcelona
Embarking on your Soho House application journey might stir up feelings reminiscent of prepping for a big job interview or drafting a college application. It’s exciting, a tad nerve-wracking, and undeniably important.
But just like those pivotal moments, success often hinges on thorough preparation, so make sure you:
✏️ Do Your Homework
Start by diving deep into the ethos and culture of Soho House. What values resonate with you that you can put on your application? What kind of members are they looking for?
The more you grasp their core philosophy, the better you can tailor your answers to reflect a genuine alignment with their community.
✏️ Authenticity is Key
While it’s essential to present your best self, it’s equally crucial to be genuine. Soho House appreciates authenticity so rather than trying to fit into a mold you think they’d appreciate, let your true self shine through.
Authentic stories, experiences, and aspirations resonate more than generic responses.
✏️ Seek Feedback
Once you’ve got your draft ready, share it with trusted friends or mentors.
Fresh eyes can offer invaluable perspectives, catching nuances or angles you might have missed.
They can also point out areas or things you’ve done that’d make you a great member you might not have even realized!
3. Make Sure You Meet the Applicant Criteria: Ensuring Your Foot’s in the Right Door
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Paris
Soho House isn’t your average membership club where anyone with the fees can saunter in, you have to fit the vibes.
✅ Dive into the Specifics
Soho House typically caters to individuals within the creative industries. Now, ‘creative’ is a broad term, and it’s worth deciphering. Are you an artist, filmmaker, designer, or perhaps a writer?
Or maybe you’re in a field that doesn’t traditionally scream “creative” but has a unique, innovative twist that sets it apart. Understand where you fit in and make it clear on your application.
✅ Reflect on Your Contribution
It’s not just about what Soho House can offer you, but what you can bring to the Soho House community. What unique experiences, insights, or energies do you carry?
Being aligned with their criteria means not only meeting their standards but enhancing the rich tapestry of the existing community which is sure to make you standout.
P.S. – This could be anything from your background to a unique personal struggle you’ve overcome, a creative project you’ve taken on, or sharing your personal business journey!
✅ Don’t be Something You’re Not
Soho House, with its emphasis on creativity and innovation, may not be the right fit for everyone. And that’s okay!
Before diving deep into the application process, ensure that your aspirations, personality, and professional background resonate with the club’s ethos.
At the end of the day, it’s about finding a community where you naturally belong, not trying to force-fit yourself into one.
✅ Keep Updated
Membership criteria can evolve over time. So what was true a year ago might not hold water today.
Before you apply make sure to pay a quick visit to their official website for the most up-to-date applicant criteria.
4. Show Your Work: Letting Your Craft Do the Talking
Photo Courtesy: Soho House New York
There’s one timeless phrase that every creator, innovator, and trailblazer knows all too well: “Show, don’t tell.”, and that’s because it’s true!
When it comes to the Soho House – a haven for the creatively inclined – merely stating your accomplishments or roles won’t make as much of an impact as showing them.
From sharing your socials to your portfolio, your business, or a creative project you worked on, be sure to show them that you’re dedicated to your craft.
5. Tell Them Exactly How You’d Use Your Soho House Membership: Imagining Yourself in the House
Photo Courtesy: Soho Beach House Canouan
One thing I made sure to do on my application was state exactly how I planned to use the houses once I was a member.
This could include anything from attending the events to form genuine connections with fellow creatives, to making use of the amenities and facilities to spark inspiration and conversation.
Whatever it is sharing these specifics breathes life into your Soho House application, which can only be a good thing!
6. Don’t Be Arrogant: The Art of Authenticity in Your Application
Photo Courtesy: Soho House West Hollywood
In vibrant communities like Soho House: Authenticity trumps arrogance.
While sharing all your wins on your application make sure not to come off like they’d be stupid not to let you in, or they probably won’t!
Remember, your application is a two-way street.
You’re offering your unique skills and perspectives to the Soho House community, but you’re also there to absorb, connect, and grow.
Frame your application with this mutual give-and-take in mind.
7. Link Your Socials: Your Digital Handshake to Soho House
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Nashville
In today’s digital age, our social media profiles often serve as windows to our world, alongside our personal and professional endeavors.
Because of this, linking your socials will most definitely help with your Soho House application (but don’t worry, you don’t have to be Instagram or Tik Tok famous to get accepted).
P.S. – If you’re a super private person, just link to your LinkedIn instead!
8. Get a Referral: The Golden Ticket to Amplify Your Application
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Hong Kong
Navigating the world of Soho House applications can feel a tad daunting, but you probably didn’t know there’s a hidden ace up many successful applicants’ sleeves. Enter the power of a referral.
Much like in many exclusive circles, a nod from someone already on the inside can significantly elevate your chances.
With that said, if you know anyone who’s an existing member, be sure to ask them if you can list them as a referral before you apply.
P.S. – The existing member will get an email directly from Soho House saying you listed them as a referral, so only do this with people you know in real life!
9. Set Aside Joining Fees: Planning for Your Membership In Advance
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Berlin
Stepping into the world of Soho House isn’t just about crafting the perfect application or having the right connections. Let’s be candid; it comes with a price tag.
And while the experiences and networking opportunities can be invaluable, you need to ensure you’re financially prepared to have a membership year-round.
💳 Understand the Cost
Fees for a Soho House membership vary greatly on your membership type (you can calculate what your membership fees would be here), but you’re looking at a few thousand guaranteed for a yearly membership + a couple hundred in induction fees. You can pay this monthly or annually.
💳 Factor in the Extras
While your membership offers access to a plethora of amenities, certain experiences or events might come at an additional cost.
To factor in these extras you’ll need to ask…
- Will I be visiting their restaurants or co-working at the houses frequently?
- How many paid workshops or events will I be attending a month?
All the extras of a Soho House Membership add up quite quickly, so just something to bear in mind!
💳 Consider the Value
It’s not just about the dollars and cents. Before setting aside the fees, reflect on the value you’re receiving in return.
- Will the networking opportunities propel your career?
- Do the amenities and spaces align with your lifestyle?
Ensuring a Soho House membership provides value tailored to your needs can make the financial commitment and membership fees feel worthwhile.
10. Be Patient
Photo Courtesy: Soho House Austin
Patience is often overlooked in our fast-paced world, but when it comes to your Soho House application, you’ll need it.
As I said before, the Soho House Membership team meets quarterly to go over applications — meaning you could not hear back from a few weeks to a few months depending on when you apply.
Their meticulous selection process ensures that every member aligns with their ethos and community values, so just trust the process!
Most importantly resist the urge to send frequent follow-up emails or calls. Bombarding the Soho House team can come off as overly eager or even pushy.
Bonus Tip: Apply now if you’re under 27
You get a discounted rate until you’re 31 if you do! Make the most of it 😉
Soho House Application FAQ
Photo Courtesy: Shoreditch House
Q: How often does the Soho House Accept New Members?
A: Soho House reviews applications at its quarterly meetings. But the exact dates of these meetings aren’t shared with the public
Q: How long does a Soho Application Take?
A: Around 15 minutes, but I suggest setting aside an hour to complete everything thoroughly!
Q: How long is the waiting list for Soho House?
A: The length of the waiting list can be a bit elusive — changing based on demand and membership turnover, in other words, we’ll never fully know.
Q: Do I need a referral to be accepted into the Soho House?
A: It helps, but isn’t necessary! Just make sure to have a strong application.
Q: Does Soho House accept everyone?
A: Soho House is selective in its membership process, with a keen emphasis on embracing creative professionals.
That being said, not every applicant will receive the nod of approval as above all it’s about alignment with the club’s values and culture.
Q: How do I make a successful Soho House application?
A: Beyond showcasing your professional achievements, it’s vital to be authentically you. Dive deep into why you want to join, how you can enrich the community, and what aspects of the Soho House resonate with you personally.
Q: Is it hard to get accepted to Soho House?
A: Given Soho House’s reputation for exclusivity and the exceptional benefits it offers, the application process can be competitive. But, with the right approach and genuine alignment, there’s a high probability you’ll get in.
Q: How does Soho House pick members?
A: The selection focuses on finding individuals who not only gel with their creative community but also demonstrate a genuine passion for the house’s principles.
They also want to see clearly you can add distinct value to the Soho House.
Q: What type of people get accepted to Soho House?
A: While many members hail from creative domains, Soho House is an evolving space that values diversity.
While a ‘traditional’ creative background is the standard, a tapestry of experiences and unique perspectives are equally cherished.
Q: What should I write on my Soho House Application?
A: Your application should be a reflection of you — honest and vibrant. Spotlight your creative endeavors, professional milestones, and personal experiences that showcase your fit and enthusiasm for the community.
Q: How can I get into the Soho House if I don’t know anyone there?
A: While having a referral from an existing member can give you an edge, it’s not a be-all-end-all. A compelling, genuine application can still open the doors for you. Just follow the rest of the tips above!
Q: Can a professional not working in the creative or entertainment industry become a member of the Soho House?
A: Absolutely! While there’s a fondness for the creative and entertainment sectors, Soho House recognizes the value of varied expertise. If you believe you bring a fresh perspective or unique value, don’t hesitate to apply.
Also keep in mind that ‘creative’ doesn’t just mean the traditional creative jobs we think of (like artists or designers etc.).
Q: Is a Soho House membership worth it?
A: If you want ample networking opportunities, luxurious experiences, and a space for continuous learning and growth in your local community, a Soho House membership can be super valuable for personal and professional growth — at least in my opinion!
Thanks for reading my Soho House Membership Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE SOHO HOUSE GUIDES:
- Soho House Membership: Your Ultimate Guide — from a member
- How Much Does a Soho House Membership Cost?
- 10+ Soho Application Tips: How to Get Into Soho House — from a member
- Soho Friends Membership: Everything You Need to Know
- Soho Works Membership: Everything You Need to Know
- Soho Farmhouse: Everything You Need to Know — from a member
- Soho Farmhouse Spa: Everything You Need to Know
- Soho House Paris: Everything You Need to Know
- Soho House Rome: Everything You Need to Know
