FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) invite all FIDE member federations to participate in the World Schools Team Championship 2025 (WSTC). The competition will take place in Washington, D.C./Alexandria, USA, from August 2 (arrival) to August 7 (departure), 2025.
Players born between 2008 and 2017 (inclusive) are eligible to participate in WSTC 2025. Each team must consist of four main players, one reserve, and one non-playing captain, and should include at least two players born in 2012 or later. Teams should include both boys and girls, where possible.
National federations are responsible for verifying that participating children are enrolled in the school they represent.
Participation is limited: the first 45 teams registered by national federations will be accepted, with priority given to teams selected through national school competitions. An additional 15 wildcard spots will be allocated by FIDE, ISCF, and the host federation, bringing the total to 60 teams.
These 60 teams will receive free accommodation, consisting of two twin rooms and two single rooms per delegation.
The organizers will purchase flight tickets directly after a team’s participation is officially confirmed via email.
The registration deadline is July 1, 2025.
Teams can register using the online form at: worldschoolteam2025.fide.com/registration2025/
FIDE member federations will be able to update registration details via an edit link. In special cases—for example, if a national championship has not yet taken place—federations may request an extension to submit player names after July 1, subject to Organizing Committee approval.
Educational conference Smart Moves Summit
The Smart Moves Summit is an international education conference that explores how chess sharpens minds, fosters creativity, and transforms learning—both in and beyond the classroom.
Held in Washington, D.C., August 4–5, 2025, alongside the World Schools Team Championship, the summit brings together teachers, parents, school leaders, researchers, edtech innovators, chess-related businesses, marketing professionals, officials, and other enthusiasts from over 20 countries.
Expect inspiring keynotes from top chess influencers, visionary educators, and thought leaders in cognitive science. Participate in practical teacher trainings, interactive panels, and global school partnerships—all centered around how chess builds confidence, critical thinking, and deeper learning in today’s classrooms.
The Smart Moves Summit is where the future of education meets the timeless strategy of chess. It’s a space for bold ideas, practical tools, and global collaboration, with the child at the center. In a world facing educational inequality and rapid change, chess offers a powerful, inclusive path to academic success and lifelong skills—for every student, everywhere.
The conference is organized by the International School Chess Federation and the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, under the patronage of FIDE.
Contact e-mail: worldschoolteam@fide.com
Official website: worldschoolteam2025.fide.com