2025 Scholar Chess Player Awards: Application Deadline and Eligibility Requirements

The deadline for submitting applications for the 2025 National Scholar Chess Player Awards is quickly approaching. High school juniors and seniors who are current US Chess members have until April 1, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PDT to apply for one of the prestigious scholarships.

The awards, provided by the US Chess Trust and the National Scholastic Chess Foundation, aim to recognize and encourage outstanding high school students who promote a positive image of chess. There are two awards available: the National Scholar Chess Player Award, which will award five $1,500 scholarships, and the Scholar Chess Player Ambassador Award, which will award one $1,500 scholarship to a player rated under 2000.

To be considered for these awards, applicants must meet specific criteria, including playing in at least 25 regular-rated US Chess or FIDE games in 2024, showing outstanding achievement in academics and chess, completing at least one year of chess-related and other community service since ninth grade, and submitting an essay on how being selected as a Scholar Chess Player will further their education and contributions to the chess community.

Applications must be submitted online and include various documents such as high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, evidence of game participation, letters of recommendation, examples of accomplishments, and a personal essay. Previous recipients of the award are not eligible to apply.

Award winners will be announced on the US Chess Trust website and will receive their awards in person at the SuperNationals VIII in Orlando, Florida. The US Chess Trust, a nonprofit organization, aims to provide opportunities for all Americans to learn and enjoy the benefits of chess.

Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your skills and dedication to chess and academics. Submit your application before the deadline to be considered for these prestigious scholarships.