How to Actually Get on the Raya Dating App (Without Being Famous)
So, you’ve heard about Raya. The secretive, members-only dating app that celebrities, influencers, and startup founders use to meet other “high-caliber” singles.
It's been called the Soho House of dating apps. And yeah — getting in isn’t easy. But it’s not impossible either.
If you’re tired of swiping through Tinder and want to see what dating looks like at the top, here’s how to actually get on Raya — even if you're not famous.
What Is Raya, Really?
Raya is an exclusive, invite-only dating app that launched in 2015. It’s known for hosting profiles of celebrities, actors, models, athletes, tech founders, and creatives.
But Raya is more than just a dating app. It also works as a networking platform — a place where people meet for love, friendship, or even business.
Think of it as LinkedIn meets Instagram meets Tinder — but only for people who “stand out.”
Why Do People Want to Get on Raya?
- ✅ You want to date someone ambitious, successful, or well-known
- ✅ You’re sick of bots, bad bios, and basic convos
- ✅ You want a dating pool with curated vibes
- ✅ You like the idea of exclusivity
Whatever the reason, the appeal is obvious: Raya = status.
How Hard Is It to Get Accepted to Raya?
Honestly? Pretty hard. Raya has a massive waitlist and a mysterious approval system.
The app claims its acceptance rate is as low as 8%. Some users wait months — even years — to get in. Others get rejected instantly. It’s not about being hot or rich. It’s about image, clout, and social proof.
According to Raya’s FAQ, applications are reviewed by a “committee” that evaluates your profession, influence, network, and overall vibe.
Here’s Exactly How to Get on Raya in 2024
If you’re serious about getting in, follow these steps — no fluff, no gimmicks.
1. Download the App & Apply
Search for "Raya" in the App Store (iOS only). Download and start the application process.
2. Set Up a Great Profile (Yes, Now)
Even though you're not in yet, Raya wants to see what kind of presence you bring. Add:
- 🔹 Clean, aesthetic photos (not over-edited)
- 🔹 A short, interesting bio
- 🔹 Instagram handle (they’ll check it)
- 🔹 Your profession (creative fields do best)
3. Link Your Instagram
This is huge. Raya reviews your IG to get a sense of your social presence. They look at:
- ✔ Number of followers (you don’t need 100k, but 1k+ helps)
- ✔ Who follows you (well-known creatives? artists? founders?)
- ✔ Your aesthetic — is it polished, creative, interesting?
4. Get a Referral (This Speeds It Up)
Referrals from current Raya members are gold. If someone inside vouches for you, your wait time can shrink from months to days.
If you know someone in media, fashion, music, or tech — ask. Referrals hold serious weight.
5. Be Patient (But Strategic)
Once you apply, your account goes into “waitlist” mode. You can check status inside the app, but don’t spam them — it won’t help.
Instead:
- 🔄 Keep your IG updated
- 📬 Use your referral wisely
- ⏳ Stay active on social in case they’re still evaluating
Does Raya Accept "Normal" People?
Yes — but they’re not looking for average. They want people who are doing something unique or influential in their space.
This includes:
- 🎬 Indie filmmakers
- 🎨 Designers and artists
- 💼 Founders and startup folks
- 🎤 Musicians and DJs
- 💻 Tech creatives
You don’t need millions of followers — but you do need a personal brand that feels “cool.” Not basic. Not try-hard.
What Happens If You Get In?
Congrats — you’re in the club.
You’ll see a clean, curated feed of potential matches with music playlists playing over profiles. There’s no swiping. It’s minimal, private, and polished.
You can:
- 💬 Message people directly
- 🌎 Change cities to meet people globally
- 💼 Use the networking feature to meet other creatives
It’s low drama, low volume, high quality.
Raya Tips (From People Who Got In)
- 📸 Keep your IG clean, creative, and current
- 🧑🎨 Be in a creative field — or showcase a unique career
- 🙋♀️ Ask for a referral early
- 📝 Don’t fake it — they’ll know
Also read: How to have two Tinder accounts
Why People Get Rejected from Raya
- 📉 Generic or outdated IG
- 🤳 Low-effort photos or bios
- ❌ No referral or weak network
- 🚩 Trying too hard to be “cool” or famous
Raya isn’t about looking rich — it’s about being interesting. Quietly impressive beats flashy every time.
FAQs: Getting Accepted on Raya
Can you reapply if you’re rejected?
Yes. Update your IG, improve your brand, and reapply after a few months.
Does having a blue check help?
Yes — verified accounts often get priority. But it’s not required.
How long is the Raya waitlist?
Some users wait 3–6 months. Some wait over a year. A referral can speed this up.
Is Raya free?
No. Once accepted, you’ll pay around $9.99/month. It’s not outrageous — just exclusive.
What should my IG look like?
It should reflect who you are. Showcase creativity, work, travel, personality — not just selfies.
Final Thoughts: Is Raya Worth It?
If you're looking for a more curated, high-vibe dating experience, and you're doing something unique with your career or creativity — yes. It’s not for everyone. But that’s kind of the point.
Just remember: you don’t need to be famous — you just need to be interesting.
Also read: What is Bumble reset?