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IMCChicago, ILInsight Program

2026 US Chess Academy- University of Chicago On-Campus Qualifier

The 2026 US Chess Academy On-Campus Qualifier in Chicago offers college students a unique chess competition with opportunities to meet top traders and the World Chess Champion.

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Program Highlights

  • Compete in-person at IMC Chicago office on May 2, 2026.
  • Winners advance to championship finals in July 2026.
  • Finalists play a showmatch with World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen.
  • Tour IMC's Chicago office and learn about trading environment.
  • Network with IMC traders, researchers, technologists, and recruiters.
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Key Dates

  • Application deadline: April 26, 2026.
  • Eligibility notifications: April 27, 2026.
  • Qualifier event: May 2, 2026.
  • Championship finals: July 12-13, 2026.
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Eligibility Requirements

  • Full-time undergraduate or postgraduate student at MIT.
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Valid Chess.com account required.
  • Available to compete May 2, 2026 qualifier.
  • Available to travel to Chicago for July finals.