♟️New to chess tournaments? Play your first Unrated Beginners' Practice Tournament for FREE with coupon FREESTART
Types of Tournaments We Run
3
🔰Unrated Tournaments
No USCF membership required!
Perfect for students new to competitive chess, our Unrated Beginners' Practice Tournaments are welcoming weekly events designed to build confidence and experience. Open to PreK–8 players who are unrated or rated below 300 USCF, these events are an ideal first step into the world of scholastic chess with shorter games, a friendly environment, and fun rewards like trophies and printable medals.
1
🎯Weekly Tournaments
Our main USCF-rated events-Weekly Saturday Swiss and Weekly Thursday Rapid-run every week and are open to all PreK-12 players with USCF ratings between 300 and 1500 or unrated. Each tournament features real-time pairings, an over-the-board-style tournament experience, and mailed prizes for top players. It's the perfect way for students to build their rating, gain experience, and compete consistently-all from the comfort of home.
2
🏆Major Tournaments
Our major tournaments give rising scholastic players a chance to compete in longer, more challenging events. The Monthly Open, held on the first Sunday of each month, is our capstone event and welcomes all PreK–12 players. Top performers from the Monthly Open-as well as winners from our weekly events-earn invitations to the Scholastic SuperCup, a quarterly, exclusive, invite-only championship event.
Why Families Choose FirstRank¹
How it Works
Step 1: Register for a Tournament
Browse our upcoming events and choose one that fits your child's level—whether they're brand new or an experienced tournament player. Registration is quick and easy, with discounted early entry options available. Players will need a Lichess.org account for all events and an active USCF membership for rated events.
Once registered, you'll receive a welcome email with instructions on how your child should join the tournament and complete their games. We provide all the details you need to get started—no guesswork required.
Step 2: Get Ready to Play
Our tournaments are run live, round-by-round, using real-time pairings-just like over-the-board events. Players follow clear instructions and play fair, structured games. Live technical support is available throughout the event.
Step 3: Compete in the Tournament
Top players receive mailed trophies and digital coupons, and everyone gains tournament experience and potentially rating points. Winners qualify for our prestigious Scholastic SuperCup, and all players receive printable medals!
Step 4: Earn Rewards & Improve
🛡️Safe. 🎉Fun. 🎓Educational.
How We're Different
☑️ Official USCF affiliate
☑️ Weekly online tournaments
☑️ Built just for K–12 players
☑️ Live technical support
☑️ Real trophies + digital coupons
☑️ Trusted fair play methods
☑️ Discounts for new players
F. A. Q.
Stay in the Loop
Want special deals, tips, and event reminders? Subscribe to our newsletter for frequent updates!