Upstep AcademyA Global Leader in Chess Excellence

Upstep Academy is not just a local coaching center; it is a Global Online Chess Training Institute operational from 2020. Headquartered in Mumbai, India, we have built a massive international community of young thinkers across 17+ countries. Our mission is to provide elite, FIDE-rated coaching to children aged 5 to 15, regardless of where they are in the world.

Important Note: To ensure a unified learning experience and prepare our students for the international competitive circuit, all our classes, study materials, and coaching are conducted exclusively in the English language.

Our Worldwide Footprint

We have established a strong presence in the following countries, tailoring our schedules to fit local time zones and academic calendars:

Primary Training Hubs

  • India: Our founding home, serving thousands of students across every major city.
  • USA: A major center for our competitive training, with a strong focus on USCF and FIDE preparation.
  • UK: Providing structured after-school and weekend batches for the British chess community.
  • Australia & New Zealand: Serving the Oceania region with specialized timings for learners.
  • Singapore & Hong Kong: Trusted by high-achieving families in Asia’s leading educational hubs.
  • UAE, Oman, Qatar & Saudi Arabia: A primary choice for families in the Middle East looking for premium English-medium coaching.

European & Global Reach

  • Europe: Active student bases in Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, and Sweden.
  • North America: Extensive reach across Canada.
  • Southeast Asia: Growing community in Malaysia.

Why Choose Upstep Globally

Our international success is built on three core pillars that remain consistent whether you are in London, Dubai, or Sydney:

  • Certification by GM Viswanathan Anand: Every student who completes a level receives a certificate signed and inspired by the Five-time World Champion.
  • Scientifically Structured Curriculum: We move beyond “just playing” to a rigorous Five-level foundation followed by Master, Pro-Master training and Grandmaster Accelerated Program training.
  • Global Time Zone Flexibility: Our operations team ensures that you can find a batch that fits your child’s school and extracurricular schedule, no matter your location.

From Beginner to Global Master

Our English-medium path is designed to take a child from zero knowledge to a professional FIDE rating:

  • Beginner & Advanced Beginner Level: Focuses on the “Language of Chess” (Algebraic Notation) and basic rules.
  • Intermediate Level: Deep dives into endgame theory and tactical patterns.
  • Advanced & Master Level: Specialized training for those aiming for international titles and competitive glory.
  • Grandmaster Accelerator Programme (GAP): Our most exclusive program, featuring live sessions with Grandmasters to unlock a champion’s mindset.

 

Would you like to book a free 20-minute global demo class to see how our platform works?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer coaching in any language other than English?

No. To maintain our high standards of global excellence and to prepare students for international tournaments (where English is the primary language), all our instruction is in English.

How do you handle different time zones for 1-on-1 classes?
We have a dedicated team of Relationship Managers who coordinate with our global pool of coaches to find a slot that is convenient for your local time.
Are the certificates recognized internationally?

Yes. Our curriculum follows a structured progression model designed to build deep understanding and tournament-ready skills. and the certification signed by GM Viswanathan Anand is a mark of high-quality training recognized by the global chess community.

Can my child participate in local tournaments in our country?

Absolutely. We encourage and prepare our students to participate in their local state and national federations, as well as international FIDE-rated events.

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