Make the 1st Move in Your Child’s Chess Journey with
a Leading Online Chess Academy for Kids
Certification & Inspiration by
GM Viswanathan Anand
Five-time World Chess Champion
Make the 1st Move of your child's Chess journey with Upstep Academy!
Certification & Inspiration by
GM Viswanathan Anand
Five-time World Chess Champion
Why Upstep is a Leading Online Chess Academy for Kids ?
Certified by GM Viswanathan Anand
Earn Level completion certificate Signed & inspired
by the 5-time World Chess Champion.
Live Personalized Chess Classes Online
Interactive & engaging online chess classes for kids tailored toyour child’s learning pace.
Structured Chess Curriculum
A scientifically designed chess training curriculum developed through years of expertise for
steady learning and success.
World’s #1 Online Chess Academy
Shaping young minds through chess, loved by
students and trusted by parents. for delivering high quality online chess classes and results.
Expert Chess Coaches
Internationally experienced & skilled chess coaches
guiding your child to success.
Dedicated Relationship Manager
Seamless learning support for
parents and students to ensure smooth and effective online chess learning.
Scientifically Developed & Structured Chess Curriculum for Kids
With years of coaching experience, feedback and proven results, we have meticulously developed a structured chess curriculum designed to help children progress step by step in their chess journey. Our program is carefully organized into five foundation levels, followed by Master Level training. Through our interactive chess classes online, students gradually develop strategic thinking, tactical awareness, and deeper understanding of the game.
Even a child who completes the Beginner Level will understand chess rules and tactics better than many adults who play the game as a hobby with family and friends.
1. Beginner Level
Introduce your child to chess and its incredible possibilities. By the end, they’ll know how to play by international rules and apply basic strategies.
2. Advanced Beginner Level
Practical guidance to defeat amateur players. Students will master tactics and openings to gain a strong foundation.
3. Intermediate Level
Develop a solid understanding of endgames, opening theory, and strategic gameplay.
4. Advanced Part 1
Elevate to a professional level with an in-depth mastery of advanced tactics.
5. Advanced Part 2
Learn to analyze and gain insights from games played by World Chess Champions.
Master & Pro Master Level
A structured pathway to achieving an international chess rating, preparing students for competitive success.
1. Beginner Level
Introduce your child to chess and its incredible possibilities. By the end, they’ll know how to play by international chess rules and apply basic chess strategies. Know More2. Advanced Beginner Level
Practical guidance to defeat amateur players. Students will master chess tactics and openings to gain a strong foundation.
3. Intermediate Level
Develop a solid understanding of chess endgames, opening theory, and strategic gameplay.
4. Advanced Part 1
Elevate to a professional level chess skills with an in-depth mastery of advanced chess tactics. Know More5. Advanced Part 2
Learn to analyze and gain insights from games played by World Chess Champions.
Master & Pro Master Level
A structured pathway to achieving an international chess rating, preparing students for competitive chess success.
Inspiring Journeys of Our Students, One Move at a Time
Achieved a 310-Point Rating Surge in Just 8 Months
Kiet Nguyen, Australia
A dedicated and fearless competitor, 13-year-old Kiet has shown phenomenal progress by climbing f rom 1655 in January 2025 to 1965 by August 2025 — a massive +310 FIDE Classical rating jump!
🏆 Secured +258 rating points in just 4 months (April–August 2025), reflecting consistency and fearless play against stronger opposition.
🌟 Demonstrated relentless dedication through regular tournament participation and steady training.
🔥 Closing in on the 2000 rating milestone , making a strong statement of intent that he’s just getting started.
The Only U-7 Girl in the World with FIDE Ratings Across All Formats
Shreyanshi Jain, Rajasthan – India
Holds FIDE ratings in all three formats—Classical, Rapid, and Blitz—making her the only Under-7 girl in the world with such a distinction as of February 2025.
- Under-7 Girls National School Chess Champion with a flawless 9/9 score.
- Chessbase India Awarded a signed DVD by GM Gukesh D for her extraordinary feat.
- Continues the legacy of GM Gukesh D, who achieved the same milestone in 2017.
11-Year-Old FIDE Master with a FIDE Rating of 2346
Reyaansh Chakrabarty, Sydney – Australia
A prodigious talent, Reyaansh is making waves in the chess world with his extraordinary achievements at just 11 years old!
- Holds a FIDE rating of 2346 and the prestigious title of FIDE Master.
- Holds the title of Australian National U16 Chess Champion 2024, dominating players years older than him.
- Clinched bronze at the U10 FIDE World Cup in Batumi, Georgia.
- Among the youngest players in history to defeat a Grandmaster.
The Undefeated Hat-Trick Champion of MSSA Chess
Nirvaan Shah, Mumbai – India
A 10-year-old chess prodigy, Nirvaan has achieved an extraordinary feat of winning three consecutive MSSA Chess titles (2022, 2023, 2024), standing undefeated throughout!
- Won 24 games, drew 3, and lost none across three editions of MSSA Chess.
- Triumphed in the Under-12 section this year with an impressive 8.5/9 score.
FIDE-Rated at Just 5 and Growing Strong
Kushaagra Agrawal, Gorakhpur – India
A young chess enthusiast with remarkable achievements, Kushaagra has been turning heads with his impressive start in the chess world at just 5 years old!
- Achieved a Rapid FIDE Rating of 1428, becoming one of the youngest-rated players in India.
- Emerged as the top Under-5 performer at the National Schools U7 Championship 2024 with 5/9 points in his debut tournament.
Achieved a 305-Point Rating Leap in Just 2 Months
Vedant Nayudu, Singapore
Vedant has made an incredible leap in his chess journey, raising his FIDE Classical rating by 305 points in just two months!
- Gained 73 points at the Singapore International Open, battling higher-rated opponents.
- Secured a remarkable 146-point boost at the Xmas Basel Festival in Switzerland, with a draw against a FIDE Master.
- Added another 86 points at the Rilton Cup, competing against players averaging over 1700.
Indian U11 National Schools Champion 2024
Rishen Jilowa, Rajasthan – India
A rising star, Rishen showcased dominance and determination to clinch the Indian U11 National Schools 2024 Chess Championship in style!
- Crowned National Schools Champion with an unbeaten score of 8/9, finishing a full point ahead.
- Achieved a massive 110-point FIDE rating gain
Don't Take Our Word for It - Hear from Parents!
Forget the research and our claims. Trust in the experiences of parents just like you.
Read their reviews to learn how our online chess classes have positively influenced their children’s lives.
EXCELLENT Based on 3025 reviews Posted on divya choudharyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a good experience overall for my son , who learnt basics and practised which helped him get better at chessPosted on Shreejee SharmaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are extremely happy with the upstep chess academy and the dedication Mayank sir has shown from starting till date. Classes are always conducted on time without any hassle, and the overall management is very smooth and professional. Mayank sir is one of the beat teachers and he is very supportive, patient, and encourages students in a very positive way. The academy maintains great discipline and communication, making the learning experience enjoyable and stress-free. Highly recommended for anyone looking for quality chess coaching with professional behaviour and excellent support.Posted on Vijaykumar VisaniTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent tutors who follow up personally. Highly approachable and very professional.Posted on Siva ranjaneTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are very happy with the coaching at the chess academy. Coach Karthik Raja sir is very patient, encouraging, and explains concepts clearly to the kids. His teaching method helps children improve their game with confidence and interest. Also, Ganesh Chandar (Relationship Manager) has been very supportive and responsive throughout. He coordinates everything smoothly and is always helpful whenever needed. Overall, it has been a great experience with the academy, and we truly appreciate their dedication and support.Posted on rati joshi soodTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our son’s chess coach, Chinmay, encourages him to think through challenges, even when they seem tricky, which is building strong confidence. Concepts are explained clearly, and there is consistent follow-up in later classes to reinforce prior learning.Posted on SHERIN THOMASTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I enrolled my child after seeing an ad on Instagram checking a few Google reviews. Initially, she knew the basics of chess from playing at home, but I can clearly see a big improvement now. She has become much more interested and engaged in the game. One thing that really stands out compared to other chess classes is the dedicated relationship manager assigned after enrollment. They are always available to guide and support, which makes the whole experience very convenient and reassuring. The program itself is well-structured, and the online platform is very easy to access. The coaches are knowledgeable and supportive, and the small homework and revision exercises really help reinforce learning. Overall, it has been a great experience, and I would definitely recommend it to other parents.Posted on yazhini marimuthuTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Yazhini from Dharmapuri,My son Karthikeyan attend upstep Academy online class. My son was enjoyed and interested to attend the class without stress he enjoyed . Master take care and also repeated the tricks.
Enrolment Process
Demo Class
Level Assessment
Counselling Session
Enrolment
Enrolment Process
1st
Demo Class
2nd
Level Assessment
3rd
Counselling Session
4th
Enrolment
All you need for
FREE Chess Demo Class is
- A Device: Laptop | Desktop | Tablet | Smart Phone
- Willingness to learn & play chess
- Good internet connection
The Objective of our chess demo class is to assess your child’s Chess level, give you a live experience of our online chess classes, and also show you the format in which chess is taught online by our well-experienced coaches
- Age Group : 5 to 15 Years
- Interactive Live One-on-one Chess Demo Class
- 20 Minutes Demo Session
Research Reveals Chess Can Boost Grades by Up to 20%!
Scroll through the other Research-Backed Benefits
of Chess Beyond the Board.
Chess Increases Creativity
Unleash your creative genius!
Playing chess activates the brain’s right hemisphere, sparking originality and imaginative problem-solving. A four-year study by Robert Ferguson involving students (grades 7 to 9) revealed that chess players showed the highest growth in originality compared to other activities..
Increases Problem-Solving Skills
Life is full of challenges, and chess is the ultimate training ground for solving them.
A 1992 New Brunswick (Canada) study split 450 students into three groups: Group A followed the standard math curriculum, Group B added chess instruction after first grade, and Group C started chess lessons from first grade alongside math.
Remarkably, Group C’s scores skyrocketed from 62% to 81.2%, outperforming Group A by 21.46%!
Exercises both sides of the brain
Think of chess as a full-brain workout that strengthens your mind from every angle.
A German study compared the brain activity of chess experts and novices, revealing that experienced chess players activate both hemispheres to process patterns and calculate moves faster. This dual-brain engagement leads to improved logical reasoning, visual-spatial skills, and the ability to multitask effectively.
Chess Improves Memory
Do you often wish your child had a better memory or was more organized? Chess might be the answer!
Studies have shown that chess players develop stronger memory skills, as the game requires them to remember moves, anticipate patterns, and plan strategies several steps ahead.
A 1985 study demonstrated that students who played chess for two years improved their grades in all subjects and exhibited better memory and organizational skills, as observed by their teachers.
Chess Helps Manage ADHD Symptoms
For children struggling with focus and attention, chess can work wonders. A 2016 study revealed that chess helped children with ADHD reduce inattentiveness by 41%, as it requires sustained concentration and thoughtful decision-making.
Parents of children with ADHD often notice significant improvements in their ability to focus for longer periods, stay calm under pressure, and develop self-discipline. By engaging in a structured and stimulating game like chess, children can channel their energy into something productive and rewarding.
Chess Promotes Brain Growth and Neural Connections
What if a simple game could physically grow your child’s brain? Studies suggest that playing chess stimulates the growth of dendrites—branch-like structures in the brain that transmit information between neurons.
When your child plays chess, they’re essentially working out their brain. The result? An increase in the brain’s ability to process and adapt to information.
Over time, this enhanced brain activity leads to better decision-making, faster reflexes, and an improved ability to tackle complex challenges.


