Chess has fascinated millions of people, and it’s not hard to realise why. Encourages creativity? Check. Enhances critical thinking, activates the mind, and contributes to overall enjoyment? Check, check, and check. However, one thing it seems to lack is convenience — children can’t learn it without going out of their way, and playing with a friend also requires both their schedules to match. 

That’s where online chess academies come into the picture. They offer a convenient and cost-effective way of learning from professional coaches while sitting at home. Chess can be a wonderful way to ensure holistic development in a child by letting him or her acquire valuable skills while being able to have fun. If you are on the lookout for the best online chess classes for beginners, you can check these 8 out:

Overview

Want extensive lessons by a reputed name in chess training who also organises international chess tournaments? Upstep Academy has you covered. Upstep is known for its flexible and comprehensive online chess coaching, offering live chess coaching for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students.

Location

Upstep Academy is online and can be accessed from anywhere in the world. It has a well-established presence in India, the USA, Australia, Singapore, and more and has guided over 21,000 students worldwide. The classes are flexible, according to students’ schedules.

Highlights

• They have a structured curriculum tailored for beginners, which introduces children to the unimaginable possibilities of chess. As the child learns, they progress to Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Parts 1 and 2, and ultimately Master.
• The sessions can be in a group or one-on-one and are highly interactive. It builds a wonderful community.
• Emphasis is placed on promoting the children’s foundational skills helping the kids to build strong fundamentals for learning advanced concepts.
• As the child completes each level, they are awarded prestigious level completion certificates signed by the one and only GM Viswanathan Anand.

Reviews

It’s easy to see that Upstep Academy is committed to delivering quality. Over 1,600 parents and students have expressed their approval of it, and it has a 4.8-star rating on Google. Some common reviews include:

• Excellent tutors who are patient, qualified, and encouraging.
• Well-structured, systematic course.
• Top-notch coaching.

Overview

iChessU provides online chess lessons for beginners and other chess levels, conducted privately or in small groups by professional chess coaches. When you have an extensive curriculum that covers chess openings, endgames and more, what more could you ask for? 

Location

iChessU has an accessible online web platform that allows your child to take online classes from experts while in their home’s privacy. This makes it one of the ideal online chess academies for your child.

Highlights

• Their chess coaches tailor personalised chess plans for the best progress.
• They have live sessions where students interact with others in the chess community.
• Online chess academies will help save both money and time.

They specialise in chess education for everyone, including children with special needs.

Overview

LikeChess is an online chess academy founded by chess enthusiasts dedicated to making chess available for everyone. It offers personalised coaching for all age groups, focusing on beginners. Their courses range from beginner to intermediate, ultimately culminating in the advanced category. They aim to foster a deep love for the game. 

Location

LikeChess is fully online, and the classes can be attended anywhere worldwide.

Highlights

• Their team consists of International FIDE-rated coaches who ensure each child reaches their fullest potential.
• Personalised chess coaching through a carefully constructed curriculum. 
• Feedback after each session and the ability to track your child’s progress.

Overview

Chess Learning Academy offers live chess coaching integrated with interactive lessons and practical exercises. They have personalised classes for learners of all ages that are adjustable to your child’s schedule – could it get any better? Their courses start at beginner and go up to master.

Location

Chess Learning Academy’s classes are remote, meaning you can join them from any location. 

Highlights

• The coaches are certified and experienced in building a strong foundation in chess.
• Over 1000+ students have enrolled with them.
• They give you a platform to showcase your abilities in the academy’s tournaments.
• There is an online community for players at all levels.

Overview

With a special focus on interactive learning and flexible timings, Victorious Chess Academy is one of the best online chess classes for beginners. Its dedicated team of FIDE-certified national instructors engages students in chess and provides personal attention to each student. 

Location

Victorious Chess Academy is online; your child can access the lessons from anywhere.

Highlights

• The instructors are experienced and adept at imparting knowledge to people of all skill levels.
• They host regular internal tournaments to enhance students’ skills.
• Training is offered in English, Hindi, and Marathi.
• With a unique syllabus that recognises the child’s aptitude, the academy makes sure everyone gets the best they can. 

Overview

Comprehensive lessons and stimulating online chess classes for beginners are key to Brainiac Chess Academy’s vision of growing chess as a sport and encouraging children to think strategically. They offer 11 courses, from Beginner 1 to FIDE Rated. 

Location

Their classes are held fully online, making them accessible worldwide. 

Highlights

• They offer individual performance analysis, weekly reviews, and feedback.
• Homework is given every session, and the students are tested after every three sessions to ensure their knowledge retention. 
• The coaches are FIDE-rated, and they use an international curriculum. 
• The batches are small, which allows for more interaction.

Overview

Global School of Chess is a member of the United States Chess Federation that offers live chess coaching for beginners. It offers both private and group online classes, which FIDE-certified coaches conduct. 

Location

The online chess academy conducts its lessons via video conferencing — anyone can join in on the fun. 

Highlights

• Live and interactive classes are prioritised.
• They provide personalised learning plans for people at all skill levels.
• Several of their students have become champions thanks to their training. 
• They cater to diverse learning styles through visual presentations, practical exercises, and engaging discussions.

Overview

The Chess Warriors offers dedicated coaches, personalised instruction to players of all levels, and interactive lessons. But if that wasn’t enough, they have created a platform for chess enthusiasts that will nurture your child.

Location

The Chess Warriors conduct their classes online, and students from all over the world can join.

Highlights

• The coaches are selected based on their expertise and motivational skills and are dedicated to helping students reach their potential.
• The classes cover various topics and skills in a structured manner.
• Personalised instruction and extensive support are given to all students.
• It is a wholesome community of chess players.

• Accessibility: Ensure that the platform where the lessons are held is easy to use and that the schedules are based on your child’s convenience.
• Coach Qualifications: The instructors should have enough experience and a proven track record in teaching beginners.
• Class size: Smaller class sizes mean that each student can get personalised attention, which is vital.
• Curriculum: Don’t settle for anything less than a structured and comprehensive curriculum to ensure systematic learning.
• Reviews and Testimonials: Review the feedback from students and other parents to determine whether the classes will be a good fit for your child.

Chess is a sport that can be learned comprehensively by a student online; in fact, online chess academies help students access high-quality lessons from anywhere while still learning in a structured and fun manner. It’s always a delight to see a child thriving in the right online chess class. Remember to explore the features of the academies to pick the one that will suit the student’s learning style and goals best. 

With the right guidance, anyone can go from being a beginner to being a chess master. This is a goal that Upstep Academy is committed to helping you achieve. Explore our comprehensive programs, and make the first move of your child’s chess journey with Upstep Academy!