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India’s National School Chess League opens 2026 onboarding for Schools

by Rasika Ratnaparkhi - 12/03/2026

The National School Chess League (NSCL) 2026 is now open for schools across India. This is a free program that offers a digital platform for chess learning, practice, and competitions. Participating students will receive interactive lessons, assessments, and leaderboards. They can take part in a national competition at the end of the cycle. Schools can join online without extra costs, and optional advanced training is available for interested institutions. There is also an option for students to participate individually. Check out the article to know more about the program. Photos: CircleChess

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Free chess program for schools

The National School Chess League (NSCL) 2026 has opened onboarding for schools across India. The initiative aims to provide structured chess education to students at no cost to participating schools. The program is headed by World Champion Gukesh, structured by coach Vishnu Prasanna and International Master Soumya Swaminathan, and presented by CircleChess. It is designed as a structured digital league model for schools across India.

Students participating in NSCL have access to:

  • Curriculum-based interactive chess lessons

  • Assignments and monthly assessments

  • School and national leaderboards

  • Competitive exposure through school, inter-school, state, and national levels

  • Official completion certificates signed by Gukesh

The program will conclude with a national competition for students who complete the structured cycle.

Learning dashboard

Step-by-step chess training with IM Soumya Swaminathan.

Interactive chess practice for beginners.

Players can review and analyze their games directly on the platform.

School Onboarding

Schools can join by submitting basic details and a student list on the NSCL website. The NSCL team handles login credentials, dashboard activation, and program setup. The system is entirely digital, requiring no additional faculty, infrastructure changes, or cost for schools.

Optional Advanced Training

Schools interested in additional support can request:

  • Live online classes

  • Group training sessions

  • Advanced preparation for competitions

  • Pathways for high-performing students

Expansion and Participation

NSCL is open to CBSE, ICSE, and state-board schools. Schools can apply at NSCL 2026 School Partnership. For coordination, they can contact nscl@circlechess.com.

Students can register individually at Student Registration.

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