Best 10 Online Chess Classes in Singapore: Master the Game of Strategy

Excellence is the motto of life in Singapore. Throughout the tough criteria of the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the demanding Direct School Admission (DSA) process, parents constantly look for methods that could mentally sharpen their kids. Among the various options, chess has secured its position as a primary choice for full development, mainly because of the huge excitement arising from the 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship being held in the Lion City.

At Upstep Academy, we provide the most structured and result-oriented online chess classes in Singapore. Whether your child is a student in Bishan looking to sharpen their focus or a budding prodigy in Jurong aiming for the 77th National Schools Individual Championships in March 2026, our online chess academy in Singapore delivers world-class training that fits seamlessly into your family's busy schedule.

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Why Singaporean Parents
Choose Upstep Academy

In a city-state where every minute counts, we offer a
“Grandmaster-approved” path to success that stands out from local community clubs.

The Viswanathan Anand Advantage

Singaporeans value global benchmarks. Every student who completes a level receives a certificate personally signed by Viswanathan Anand, a prestigious addition to any child’s Direct School Admission (DSA) portfolio or school achievement records.

The Exclusive 1:4 Small Group Edge

Unlike school CCA’s or community centre classes that often have 20+ students, we maintain a strict 1:4 coach-to-student ratio. This ensures your child gets the personalised feedback necessary to master complex tactics, mirroring the focused environment of the Gifted Education Programme (GEP).

Specialised Mentors for Every Milestone

Foundational Learning: Our patient mentors specialise in kids aged 5–15, making chess lessons for kids in Singapore engaging and fun.
The Elite Track: Our Grandmaster Accelerator Program (GAP) features coaching from International Masters (IMs) and Grandmasters (GMs) for those aiming for the Singapore Chess Federation (SCF) national squads.

Strategic Preparation for National Events

We align our teaching with Singapore’s competitive landscape. We prepare students for key local events such as:

The National Schools Individual Championships (March 16-17, 2026) at OCBC Arena.
SCF Age Group Championships and FIDE-rated events.
Rising Stars Chess Championships (monthly events at Lavender).

Is your child ready to think like a champion? Book a FREE 1:1 Demo Session and watch them solve their first tactical puzzle!

The "DSA" Edge: Chess and the Upstep’s Curriculum

Chess isn’t just a hobby; it’s an intellectual exercise that mirrors the skills required for PSLE and O-Level success:

Mathematical Precision: Chess is “visual math.” It develops spatial awareness and calculation skills, essential for the Math and Science Olympiads.
DSA Excellence: Top secondary schools like Raffles Institution (RI), Hwa Chong, and NYGH recognize chess achievements. Our virtual chess training in Singapore helps build the competitive record needed to secure a “Confirmed Offer” (CO).
Resilience and Grit: In line with Singapore’s focus on Character and Citizenship Education (CCE), chess teaches children to stay calm under pressure and learn from their mistakes.
Holiday Learning: Our online holiday chess programs in Singapore keep young minds sharp during the June and December school breaks.

Getting Started: Requirements for Success

We make virtual chess training in Singapore simple. All you need is:

A Laptop or Desktop: A larger screen is vital for better visualisation of the 64 squares and tactical arrows.
Stable Fibre Broadband: Essential for a lag-free experience during live analysis sessions.
A Focused Workspace: A quiet corner at home helps your child treat the class with the same respect as a school lesson.
Free Digital Tools: We help students set up secure accounts on professional platforms like Lichess and chess.com to practice between lessons and join our academy club matches.

Our Curriculum: A Journey to Mastery

Our levels are mapped to ensure consistent growth, whether you are in Tampines, Katong, or Woodlands.

Level 1: The First Move (Beginners)
Level 2: Tactical Mastery
Level 3: Strategic Depth
Level 4 & 5: Tournament Excellence

Perfect for students starting online chess classes in Singapore.

Mastering piece movements and “special powers” like castling.
Learning the “Golden Rules” of the opening for a strong start.
Executing your very first checkmate.

Transitioning from playing to winning.

Learning the Fork, Pin, and Skewer—essential for any SCF-rated player.
Understanding piece values and efficient trading.
Basic endgame patterns (The Ladder Mate and Box Mate).

For students looking for SCF and FIDE-rated coaching in Singapore.

Opening Systems: Building a professional opening repertoire.
Calculation Training: Learning to see 3–4 moves ahead in your mind.
Game Analysis: Reviewing matches to identify and revise common mistakes.

Preparing for the National Youth Championships.

Advanced positional concepts and pawn structure logic.
High-speed calculation and clock management under pressure.
Advanced endgames.

The Grandmaster Accelerator Program (GAP)

This is our elite tier for Singapore’s most ambitious young players.

Learn from the Best: Classes led exclusively by Grandmasters.
Official Rating Focus: Targeted training to increase your SCF or FIDE rating.
Elite Preparation: Specialised modules for the 77th National Championships (Feb 2026) at the Asian Civilisations Museum.

Does your child have tournament dreams? Explore the GAP Program and train with the world’s best.

Top 10 Online Chess Coaching
Platforms in Singapore (2026)

Rank	Academy Name	Best Feature	Why They are Respected
1	Upstep Academy	Anand-signed Certificates, internal monthly tournaments, and dedicated relationship managers for a personalized learning experience.	1:4 batches and access to International Grandmasters.
2	Singapore Chess Federation	National Governing Body	The primary source for official ratings and national squads.
3	Chess Academy (SG)	Kalong-based Heritage	Long-standing reputation for school-level development.
4	Intchess Asia	School Partnerships	One of the oldest academies with deep local school ties.
5	Chess Grande	Yi shun-based Experts	High density of MOE and FIDE-certified instructors.
6	Chess.sg	Bukit Timah Clubhouse	Combines online coaching with a premium physical clubhouse feel.
7	Genius Assembly	Early Learners	Specialised programs for children under 12 in Serangoon.
8	Learn Chess Academy (LCA)	Hybrid Model	Offers a blend of AI-supported online and on-site training.
9	Royal Chess	Character Building	Focuses on using chess to develop a child’s character and discipline.
10	Bishan Chess Club	Community Focus	Good for local casual play and community club tournaments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is chess an approved CCA in Singapore?

Yes, many primary and secondary schools offer Chess as a recognised Co-Curricular Activity (CCA).

How much are chess lessons for kids in Singapore?

Professional coaching usually ranges from SGD $40 to $120 per lesson. Upstep offers competitive monthly packages with small group sizes.

What is the SCF rating?

The Singapore Chess Federation (SCF) rating reflects a player’s skill level. It is highly valued for DSA applications to top schools.

Can my child use chess for DSA?

Absolutely. Schools like RI, Hwa Chong, and St. Joseph’s Institution often accept students through the Direct School Admission program based on chess achievements.

What is the best age to start?

Age 5 is the “golden age.” Children at this stage are wonderful at picking up the patterns and logic required for the game.

Do you prepare students for the National Schools Championships?

Yes. Our curriculum is designed to ensure students are ready for the 77th National Schools Individual Championships in March 2026.

Are your coaches MOE-certified?

Our mentors are highly experienced in the Singaporean chess educational landscape, adhering to the high standards expected by parents.

Can we choose our class timings?

Yes. We offer flexible slots to accommodate school remedial classes, CCAs, and tuition schedules.

What if we are aiming for the GEP?

The logical reasoning skills built in chess are excellent preparation for the GEP identification tests and subsequent academic rigour.

How do I register for a demo?

It’s simple! Click here to book your Free 1:1 Demo and let your child’s journey begin.

Conclusion: Start Your Child's Success Story Today

In the Lion City, we know that success belongs to those who plan three moves ahead. Upstep Academy is the best online chess academy in Singapore, dedicated to turning young learners into strategic leaders.

Are you ready to watch your child master the board?