Can you get a college scholarship for chess?

Hey everyone, I'm really into chess and I'm wondering if there are any scholarships out there for chess players? I've competed in some local tournaments and I'm hoping my skills might help with college costs. Any advice or leads?

Absolutely! There are indeed scholarships out there for skilled chess players. Many colleges offer substantial chess scholarships to attract dynamic players to their clubs and teams. For example, Webster University in Missouri actually has one of the top collegiate chess teams in the country and offers significant scholarships for high-performing chess players. Similarly, The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) has the Eugene McDermott Chess Program, which offers scholarships covering tuition and mandatory fees.

There are also independent organizations and foundations that provide scholarships for chess. For example, the US Chess Federation awards several scholarships each year to high-performing chess players who exhibit academic excellence and community service.

While discussing scholarships, it's also important to note that you should never have to pay to apply for any legitimate scholarships. Be wary of any programs or foundations that ask for an application fee.

Keep in mind, in addition to chess skill, many of these scholarships also consider academic performance. So while your prowess in chess can certainly work in your favor, it's also important to maintain your grades and continue with other activities as colleges like to see balanced profiles. Good luck in your search!