Master in Training For Mentors

At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, tuition fees are 3,795 USD per year, while applications for the Sep 2026 intake are due by Aug 31, 2026.

Graduates of this programme emerge as confident mentors capable of fostering cohesive student communities and navigating the complexities of academic guidance. By equipping participants with the interpersonal tools necessary to act as the primary point of contact during a student's educational journey, the training ensures mentors can effectively balance support, boundary-setting, and professional referral.

This course is specifically designed for those taking on a mentorship role within the university, addressing the practical realities of student welfare and engagement. It focuses on the core competencies required to bridge the gap between student needs and institutional resources, providing a structured approach to managing diverse student groups.

Core Mentorship Competencies

• Conversation Techniques: Developing skills for effective one-on-one and group mentoring interviews.
• Student Welfare: Navigating the VU-wide support landscape to ensure students receive appropriate care.
• Professional Boundaries: Establishing healthy limits to maintain mentor sustainability and effectiveness.
• Inclusion: Creating welcoming environments that ensure all students feel connected to their programme and peers.

The training is highly practical, focusing on real-world scenarios, including how to react when a student is struggling and determining the appropriate limits of the mentor's role.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a research-led university situated in the heart of Amsterdam, founded in 1880 and welcoming more than 31,700 students including a large international cohort. Its long history combines academic tradition with modern interdisciplinary teaching across social sciences, humanities, law, business, and sciences. English-taught bachelor and master programs make it accessible to international applicants seeking a high-quality European education in a dynamic urban setting.

The university emphasizes research excellence and societal impact, with numerous institutes and centers that connect students to real-world challenges. Small-group teaching, problem-based learning options, and close supervision at graduate level support academic growth. International students can take advantage of dedicated services for visa advice, housing support, language courses, and career guidance that ease transition and enhance employability in the Netherlands and beyond.

Student life blends campus facilities with Amsterdam cultural vitality, including museums, startups, and multinational companies that offer internships and networking. Affordable public transport and a bicycle-friendly environment make daily life straightforward while campus clubs and student associations help newcomers build a community. Prospective international students should research program entry requirements early, prepare application documents and funding plans, and reach out to the international office to plan arrival and accommodation.