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IMCChicago, ILGraduate
2026 US Chess Academy
The 2026 US Chess Academy is a competitive program for US and Canadian college students passionate about chess. Participants compete online and in-person, network with IMC professionals, and gain insight into a leading trading firm's environment.
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Program Highlights
- Qualify through an online Swiss-format tournament on Chess.com.
- Compete in Chicago finals against top student chess players.
- Participate in a showmatch with World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen.
- Tour IMC's Chicago office to see a leading trading environment.
- Network with IMC traders, researchers, technologists, and recruiters.
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Key Dates
- Applications close on 2026-05-10.
- Eligibility notifications on 2026-05-11.
- Virtual qualifiers on 2026-05-19 or 2026-05-20.
- Championship finals in Chicago on 2026-07-12 and 2026-07-13.
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Eligibility Requirements
- Full-time undergraduate or postgraduate student in US or Canada.
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Valid Chess.com account required.
- Available for virtual qualifier on assigned date in May 2026.
- Available to travel to Chicago for finals in July 2026.