Apply Now: ChessKid Pathway to the US Chess School
At ChessKid, we’re always looking for ways to help young players grow. Some of the most promising chess journeys are just beginning, and having the right opportunity at the right moment can make all the difference. That’s why we’re excited to announce a new partnership between ChessKid and the US Chess School, offering motivated ChessKids a new chance to challenge themselves and move forward.What is the US Chess School?
The US Chess School (USCS) provides invitation-only, high-level training for promising young chess players. Founded by International Master Greg Shahade, USCS offers free online classes and camps led by top coaches. Traditionally, US Chess School participants are selected based on strong competitive results and ratings.
Participants at various US Chess School camps. Photo: US Chess School
What This Means for ChessKids
Through the new ChessKid × US Chess School partnership, we’re creating an opportunity for promising ChessKid players who may not yet qualify by rating alone to earn access to US Chess School’s online classes.
Instead of focusing only on current rating, this pathway looks at:
- Motivation and commitment.
- Willingness to learn and improve.
- Competitive performance in a ChessKid setting.
While this pathway looks beyond rating alone, it’s important to note that US Chess School classes are highly selective, and participants typically average above a 2000 USCF rating. This opportunity is designed for motivated players who are still developing and ready to challenge themselves.
How the Qualifying Pathway Works
Here’s a look at the qualifying process:
- Mid-January: Application opens.
- Mid-January-Late February: Interested ChessKids submit an application describing their chess experience, goals, and motivation.
- Early March: Applications are reviewed by US Chess School leadership, who will select a group of applicants to advance.
- Late March: Selected players compete in a ChessKid qualifying tournament. One or more players will earn the opportunity to attend US Chess School online classes, with final selections made at USCS’s discretion.
Tournament details will be shared directly with selected applicants once the application review is complete.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re excited about growing your game and challenging yourself, we encourage you to apply.
Applications are open through late February. Selected applicants will be contacted with next steps in early March.
We can't wait to see how this new pathway helps ChessKids take the next step in their chess journey!
-
- What is the ChessKid × US Chess School Qualifying Pathway?
- Who is this opportunity for?
- Do I need a high rating to apply?
- Is this opportunity only open to U.S.-based players?
- How do I apply?
- How are players selected for the qualifying tournament?
- How many players will be selected to attend US Chess School online classes?
- What does participation in US Chess School include?
- Is there a cost to apply or participate?
- When will applicants hear back?
- Does applying guarantee selection?
- Still have questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ChessKid × US Chess School Qualifying Pathway?
This pathway is a partnership between ChessKid and the United States Chess School that gives promising ChessKids a chance to earn access to US Chess School online classes through an application and qualifying ChessKid tournament.
Who is this opportunity for?
This opportunity is designed for young ChessKid players who are motivated to improve, enjoy competition, and want to challenge themselves, including players who may not yet qualify for US Chess School by rating alone.
Do I need a high rating to apply?
No. While rating information is collected for context, selection is not based on rating alone. Motivation, commitment, and performance in the qualifying tournament are all considered. US Chess School programs are highly selective, and participants in USCS classes typically average above a 2000 USCF rating. While this pathway creates an opportunity for players who may not yet be at that level, the majority of applicants will not be selected. This process is meant to identify potential, readiness, and commitment but is not a guarantee.
Is this opportunity only open to U.S.-based players?
This pathway is primarily U.S.-focused, consistent with how the US Chess School traditionally operates. However, for online classes, international applicants may be considered more selectively. Players who advance through the qualifying tournament may receive additional consideration.
How do I apply?
Fill out the form here.
How are players selected for the qualifying tournament?
Applications are reviewed by US Chess School leadership. A group of applicants will be invited to advance to the qualifying ChessKid tournament based on overall potential and readiness.
How many players will be selected to attend US Chess School online classes?
At least one player will earn a spot through the qualifying tournament. At the discretion of US Chess School leadership, additional participants may also be selected.
What does participation in US Chess School include?
Selected players will have the opportunity to attend US Chess School online classes, which are led by experienced coaches and designed to support high-level chess development.
Is there a cost to apply or participate?
There is no cost to apply. Details about participation will be shared directly with selected players.
When will applicants hear back?
Selected applicants will be contacted in early March with next steps. The qualifying tournament will take place in late March.
Does applying guarantee selection?
No. Submitting an application does not guarantee advancement to the tournament or selection for US Chess School programs. Final decisions are made by US Chess School leadership.
Still have questions?
Email [email protected].