Scholar-Chessplayer Award

The U.S. Chess Trust's Scholar-Chessplayer Award gives five $1,500 scholarships to high school juniors or seniors who are current US Chess members, have played at least 25 rated tournament games in the qualifying calendar year, and show academic achievement, chess achievement, and a year of chess-related community service. A sixth $1,500 'Ambassador' award goes to a lower-rated (under 2000) player recognized for community-service impact. Applicants submit a 500-word MLA-format essay, transcript, SAT/ACT scores, two recommendation letters, and a non-parent letter of support. The 2026 cycle deadline is March 1, 2026.

Eligibility

DemographicsRequires current US Chess membership, at least 25 rated tournament games (time control G/30 or longer) played Jan 1-Dec 31 of the qualifying year, one year of chess-related/community service since 9th grade, an essay, transcript, test scores, two recommendation letters (one teacher, one chess coach/TD), and a non-parent letter of support. Prior award recipients are ineligible

Applying

Six total awards of $1,500 each: five National Scholar-Chessplayer awards plus one Ambassador award for a lower-rated (under 2000) player.