How Chess Titles Are Earned
FIDE chess titles are the gold standard of chess achievement. But how exactly do you earn one? The system involves ratings, norms, and specific tournament conditions. Here is the complete guide.
The titles
| Title | Abbreviation | Rating requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Candidate Master | CM | 2200+ |
| FIDE Master | FM | 2300+ |
| International Master | IM | 2400+ (plus norms) |
| Grandmaster | GM | 2500+ (plus norms) |
What is a norm?
A norm is a high-level performance in a qualifying tournament. For IM and GM titles, you need three norms in addition to the rating requirement. A norm means scoring a certain percentage against opponents of a specific average strength, in a tournament with players from at least 3 federations. See full norms guide.
CM and FM: rating only
The CM and FM titles require reaching the rating threshold only. No norms are needed. You achieve the rating, you get the title. These titles are sometimes awarded at national championships.
IM and GM: rating + norms
The IM title requires a FIDE rating of 2400+ and 3 IM norms. The GM title requires 2500+ and 3 GM norms. Each norm must be earned in a separate tournament. The title is awarded for life once achieved. See FIDE ratings and titles.