The Universities’ Scheme was introduced in 2005 by the governing body of Freemasonry in England and Wales with the objective ‘To establish and/or enhance arrangements and opportunities for undergraduates and other university members to enjoy Freemasonry’.

There are currently over 80 Lodges situated across England & Wales, where towns and cities have a university, which have been authorised to participate in the Universities’ Scheme. Cumberland Lodge meeting at the Luton Centre are the Universities Scheme Lodge for the University of Bedfordshire.

The Scheme is headed by the Assistant Grand Master, Sir David Wootton, who explains: “We know from these long-established University lodges that students – whether undergraduates or postgraduates – enjoy Freemasonry to the full. Through the Universities Scheme, we hope that University members from all over the country will be able to gain the same inspiration, fulfilment and enjoyment.”

The Grand Master, HRH the Duke of Kent, states “A real benefit the Scheme offer is having young intelligent men joining us who will, we hope, contribute greatly to the future of the Craft, as potential leaders and sources of inspiration.”

While the minimum age for joining Freemasonry is normally 21, in the case of University students, this limit is reduced to 18. In addition, reduced fees are charged to those aged under 25.