The Membership application process refers to joining MSSA as an Associate Member by submitting the necessary forms, documents and fees to gain access to membership benefits.

Accreditation, on the other hand, is a separate process that involves meeting specific competency standards, such as completing recognised training and practical experience, in order to be formally recognised and listed as an accredited mediator.

As part of the accreditation application, applicants must choose the category of accreditation they are applying for, namely

• MSSA Accredited Civil/Commercial Mediator
• MSSA Accredited Family Mediator

Within your accreditation application, you may request an additional endorsement in a specialised category, such as Court-Annexed Mediator or RAF (Personal Injury) Mediator. This endorsement is considered alongside your accreditation application and will be reflected on your certificate once all requirements are met.

Please ensure you read the following information and instructions carefully before submitting your application.

A) MSSA Associate Membership Application and Approval Process

Step 1: Application

Membership of the MSSA is open to professionals with an interest in mediation as a credible, ethical, and accessible form of dispute resolution, and who want to become a practicing mediator.

• Complete the online Membership Application Form.
• Pay the application fee of R850 (non-refundable).
• Submit your application with all required supporting documents, online via our website at: www.mssa.org.za (see list below).

 Step 2: Required Supporting Documents

Please provide the following supporting documents along with your completed application form and payment of R850.00:

• Updated CV / Resume
• Copy of a valid ID (Passport, Driver’s License, or National ID)
• Copies of relevant qualifications or and/or training.
• Any other supporting information relevant to your mediation experience
• Signed MSSA Code of Conduct form
• Signed MSSA Complaints & Disciplinary Process form

Step 3: Approval

Upon approval, you will receive an Associate Member Certificate, statement of your account, and the MSSA Accreditation Standards for Mediators, your roadmap towards MSSA Accreditation.

B) MSSA Accreditation Application and Approval Process

All applications are reviewed against MSSA’s standards and criteria. Acceptance is not automatic and is subject to approval by MSSA.

Step 1: Application

• Complete the online Accreditation Application Form.
• Make sure to choose your category of accreditation as you will be assessed according to their individual standards: Applicants are encouraged to carefully review these guidelines before completing an application, to ensure they apply under the correct category.

• MSSA Accredited Civil/Commercial Mediator
• MSSA Accredited Family Mediator

You can request the following additional endorsement in a specialised category:

• Qualified Court-Annexed Mediator or
• RAF (Personal Injury) Mediator.

This endorsement is considered alongside your accreditation application and will be reflected on your certificate once all r equirements are met.

• Submit your application with all required supporting documents, online via our website at: www.mssa.org.za (for details see the MSSA Accreditation Standards for Mediators as published on the MSSA website).

• You will be required to pay a R650 administration fee (non-refundable).

Step 2: Required Supporting Documents

• Your Portfolio of Evidence showing the required training and experience, as per the MSSA Accreditation Standards for Mediators as published on the website.
• Your checklist of supporting documents.

Step 3: Accreditation Evaluation

• Once your accreditation application is received (with all document attached), the MSSA will:
• Review your supporting documents.
• Evaluate the required mediation training and experience.

Step 4: Approval

• Once approved, you will receive confirmation together with the relevant payment instructions. Currently the  accreditation fee is R 1200.00.
• After payment and confirmation, you will receive a MSSA Accreditation Certificate and will your accreditation be considered final
• Your profile will be shown on the relevant MSSA mediator website panel.
• Complete a form which will be send to you with information for your online profile. Submit this within five days.

Important Notes:

• If your accreditation does not meet MSSA accreditation standards, we will recommend:
• Additional training
• Supervision or mentorship
• Practical roleplay or assessment
• You will still remain an Associate Member, eligible to attend training, webinars, and mentoring until you qualify for accreditation.