MASTERS MENTORSHIP NETWORK 2026
Every year, hundreds of psychology students across South Africa take on the challenge of applying for Coursework Masters programs. These programs are renowned for their rigorous application requirements, intensive selection interviews, and highly limited spaces, making the process both competitive and demanding.
To support aspiring Master’s students, Cognition & Co established the Masters Mentorship Network; an initiative designed to foster connections between potential Master’s applicants and mentors who have successfully navigated these challenges themselves.
Through this program, students gain access to guidance, support, and insights from professionals who understand the demands of the application and interview process. Our goal is to create meaningful networking opportunities that empower students to approach this journey with confidence, clarity, and a strong sense of direction.
18 January 2026 - 28 February 2026
Important Dates:
Our call for Mentors will open on Sunday the 18th of January and close on the 28th of February 2026.
Mentor Requirements:
To be considered as a mentor within the Masters Mentorship Network, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be registered with the HPCSA as a Psychologist (in any category), or be in the process of registering as a Psychologist (student, intern, commserv, & independent)
Have sufficient time and capacity in your schedule to meaningfully engage with and support a mentee
Be willing to offer guidance, insight, and reflective support to a master’s hopeful navigating the professional training pathway
If you meet these requirements and would like to contribute to the development of future psychologists, please click the link below to read more about the role of a mentor and to access the online application form.
02 February 2026 - 22 February 2026
Important Dates:
Our call for Mentees will open on Monday the 2nd of February and close on the 22nd of February 2026.
Mentee Requirements:
If you are currently studying or have completed an Honours degree and will be applying for a coursework Masters programme in 2026 for the class of 2027, complete the Masters Mentorship Network Mentee Application form below.
Administration Fee:
Cognition & Co have introduced an administration fee in order to process and manage the mentee applications. This fee is non-refundable. Payment of the fee does not guarantee that the student will be paired with a mentor. Please be aware that in the past, many applications have been sent incomplete and missing information. For this reason, only applicants who pay the fee will be processed for consideration.
Applications Open 02.02.2026
If you’re interested to learn more about the Masters Mentorship Network, take some time to listen to the following episodes of the Cognition & Co podcast detailing the history and intent behind the initiative;