When you think of school subjects, chess probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But in several countries around the world, chess is more than just a game—it’s part of the education system.
Some nations have made it a regular class, others treat it as a formal extracurricular activity, and many see it as a powerful tool to develop young minds.
Here’s a look at countries where chess is being used in schools in a meaningful way.
1. Armenia – Chess is on the Timetable
In 2011, Armenia became the first country in the world to make chess a mandatory subject in primary schools. Starting in the second grade, Armenian students take regular chess lessons alongside math, science, and literature. The government introduced the program to improve critical thinking, decision-making, and strategic planning skills. Armenia also has one of the highest numbers of chess grandmasters per capita, and the game is deeply embedded in its culture.
2. Russia – Chess Education with Deep Roots
Russia has a long history with chess and continues to integrate it into its education system. While not mandatory nationwide, many Russian schools offer chess as part of the curriculum, especially at the elementary level. The Russian Chess Federation works with schools to promote chess as a cognitive development tool. Several regions have regional programs that include chess in school schedules.
3. India – A Quiet Chess Revolution
India is one of the fastest-growing chess-playing nations. While chess is not part of the national curriculum, several Indian states have taken the initiative. In Tamil Nadu, for example, chess is promoted heavily in schools, especially after the state produced world-class player Viswanathan Anand. The All India Chess Federation also runs training and school-level initiatives to promote the game.
4. Spain – Chess as an Educational Tool
In 2015, the Spanish Parliament unanimously approved a proposal to include chess in schools, not as a subject but as an educational tool to support learning. The motion encouraged regional education authorities to promote chess, especially in the context of improving cognitive skills, emotional intelligence, and academic performance. Some regions, like Catalonia and Galicia, have implemented pilot programs or included chess in school activities.
5. China – Encouraging Young Talent
While China traditionally focused on Xiangqi (Chinese chess), it has made significant strides in international chess. The Chinese government supports chess through schools, especially in urban areas. While it’s not part of the national core curriculum, chess is commonly available through after-school programs and competitive clubs. China has also invested in training top youth players through state-sponsored sports schools.
6. United States – Chess on the Rise
Chess isn’t a standard school subject in the United States, but it is widely supported through extracurricular clubs, enrichment programs, and nonprofits. Organizations like Chess in the Schools in New York City and The U.S. Chess Federation help bring chess into public education. Some school districts have piloted programs to integrate chess into elementary-level math or logic instruction, with promising results for student focus and achievement.
Why Are Schools Turning to Chess?
Educators and researchers have increasingly pointed to the benefits of chess in education:
- It promotes problem-solving and logical thinking
- It improves concentration and memory
- It teaches patience and perseverance
- It helps children learn to make decisions under pressure
Studies across multiple countries show that regular chess instruction can even improve academic performance, particularly in math and reading.
Final Thoughts
Chess is quietly becoming one of the most powerful teaching tools in the world. Whether it’s a full-fledged subject in Armenia or a brain-boosting extracurricular in the U.S., more schools are recognizing that this centuries-old game has a very modern role to play in shaping young minds.
Checkmate, boredom. Hello, brainpower.