Chess Rating Classes
US Amateur Classes
US National Expert X - USCF (2000-2199)
Just beneath Master, see Expert/CM under Recognized Titles
US National Class A - USCF (1800-1999)
Top Amateur Class
US National Class B - USCF (1600-1799)
Strong Tournament Player
US National Class C - USCF (1400-1599)
Average Tournament Player
US National Class D - USCF (1200-1399)
Strong Social Player
US National Class E - USCF (1000-1199)
Social Player
US National Class F - USCF (800-999)
Novice Player
US National Class G - USCF (600-799)
Beginner II/Scholastic Player
US National Class H - USCF (400-599)
Beginner I/Scholastic Player
US National Class I - USCF (200-399)
Early beginner/Scholastic Player
US National Class J - USCF (100-199)
Recognized Titles:
FIDE Grandmaster (GM)
Awarded by FIDE for three GM norms.
FIDE International Master (IM)
Awarded by FIDE for three IM norms.
FIDE Master (FM)
Minimum FIDE rating of 2300 after 24 games
FIDE Candidate Master (CM)
Minimum FIDE Rating 2200+
US National Senior Master (SM)
USCF Rating 2400+
US National Master (NM)
USCF Rating 2200+
US Expert/Candidate Master (X/CM)
USCF Rating 2000+
Women FIDE Titles:
FIDE reduced qualifications for these designated titles.
- Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Generally considered to be the strength of an IM, and the preferred may be chosen by the player.
- Woman International Master (WIM)
- Woman FIDE Master (WFM)
- Woman Candidate Master (WCM)
