2026 US Chess Academy- University of Chicago On-Campus Qualifier

Currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate student at MIT

18 years of age or older

A valid Chess.com account

Available to compete in the qualifier on May 2, 2026

Available to travel to Chicago for the finals on July 12–13, 2026

Open to all majors and academic backgrounds — all skill levels welcome

Finalist competitors will take part in a showmatch experience with World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen — one of the most exceptional competitive opportunities available to any student chess player.

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Tour IMC's Chicago office and get a firsthand look at the environment where some of the world's fastest and most sophisticated trading takes place.

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