FIDE Ratings & Chess Titles
The FIDE rating system is the universal measure of chess strength. Understanding how it works, what each rating means, and how titles are earned helps you set realistic goals and track your progress.
How Elo works
The Elo system: beat a stronger player, gain more points. Lose to a weaker player, lose more points. The K-factor determines how much your rating changes per game. New players have K=40 (volatile); established players have K=10 (stable). Ratings are relative, 1500 means you beat 1400-rated players ~64% of the time.
Rating ranges
- 1000-1200: Beginner/Novice.
- 1200-1400: Club player.
- 1400-1600: Intermediate.
- 1600-1800: Strong club player.
- 1800-2000: Expert.
- 2000-2200: Candidate Master territory.
- 2200-2400: Master level.
- 2400-2600: International Master territory.
- 2600+: Super Grandmaster.
Chess titles
- CM (Candidate Master): Rating 2200+.
- FM (FIDE Master): Rating 2300+.
- IM (International Master): Rating 2400+ with 3 IM norms.
- GM (Grandmaster): Rating 2500+ with 3 GM norms. Norms require performing at a specific level in tournaments with titled players. See our guides: reach 1800, reach 2000.