UpStep Academy

UpStep Academy is a global online chess academy built specifically for young players aged 5 to 15. Founded in 2020 and inspired by five-time World Chess Champion GM Viswanathan Anand, the academy has grown to serve over 30,000 students across more than 20 countries. Every student who completes a level receives a certificate signed by Anand himself, which is a powerful motivator for kids just getting into the game.

The curriculum is organized into five foundation levels plus a Master Level track, each designed to build on the last. Classes are held live in small groups with dedicated coaches, so students get real interaction and personalized feedback rather than just watching videos. The structured approach covers everything from basic piece movement to advanced positional play and endgame technique, keeping young learners engaged and progressing at a healthy pace.

For students with serious competitive ambitions, UpStep offers the Grandmaster Accelerator Program (GAP), an exclusive training track led by titled players including GMs. GAP is designed to fast-track development for tournament-ready players who want to push beyond the standard curriculum. The academy also provides dedicated tournament support, helping students prepare for and compete in events at every level.

Based in Mumbai, India, UpStep Academy operates entirely online and accepts students from around the world. Whether a child is picking up chess for the first time or aiming for a national title, the academy offers a clear path forward with professional coaching at every stage.