2026 US Masters

https://www.charlottechesscenter.org/events/usmasters

OVERVIEW

The 2026 US Masters is a US Chess National Championship held over Thanksgiving Weekend. The USM is part of the FIDE Circuit and offers GM/IM norms and a $27,500 guaranteed prize fund.

The USM is held just after the Fall GM/IM Norm Invitational and runs alongside the NC Open, an open event for all players.

New this Year:

• Higher rating minimums for untitled juniors
• Larger female and senior prizes
• Adjusted time control from G/90 to G/80, inc/30, allowing for a more relaxed schedule while still being valid for norms, rating, and the FIDE Circuit.

WHEN

November 25-29, 2026 ​

WHERE

Hilton Charlotte University Place

8629 JM Keynes Drive

Charlotte, NC 28262

Free Internet, Free Parking

​

$139/Night

Booking Link - Book ASAP

Click "edit stay" at the top of the booking page to select your exact dates

Please email us if the booking link is not showing the correct rate.

REGISTRATION

• Online registration required.
• Online registration closes November 25, 4:00pm
• On-site check-in is not necessary for pre-registered players.

ELIGIBILITY

• Players rated or once rated 2200+ USCF or FIDE based on an established rating of 26+ games.
• Players with the NM, FM, WFM, or higher titles.
• CFC and other foreign National Masters accepted.
• CM and WCM titles are not considered.
• Untitled juniors (born 2007 or after) must be rated 1950+ FIDE and 2100+ USCF at any time between September 1 and November 25; the ratings need not be achieved concurrently. Additional fee applies.
• No exceptions to eligibility rules.  Players who do not qualify for the USM may enter the NC Open.
• Entry fees are based on status at the time of registration.

SPECTATORS

• Parents, spectators, and other non-players may attend, but during play, are not permitted in any playing halls or nearby hallways and restrooms.
• May enjoy side events and use the hotel common areas.
• Anyone may register for the $2,000 Blitz on Saturday.

TIME CONTROL

G/80; inc/30

The USM has been specifically approved by FIDE to be played at a slightly faster classical time control and still be valid for norms, rating, and the FIDE Circuit.

PRIZES

$27,500 Guaranteed Prize Fund in 1 Section.

Larger Female & Senior Prizes added June 1, 2026.

150 US Chess Grand Prix Points

$7000 - $3500 - $2000 - $1500 - $1400 - $1200 - $1000

Top U2500 FIDE: $1400 - $700

Top U2350 FIDE: $1200 - $600

Top U2200 FIDE: $1000

Bonus Prizes (can be won in addition to other prizes)

• $500 + USM trophy and title for clear or playoff winner
• Top Female: $2000 - $1000
• Top Senior (born 1976 or earlier): $1000 - $500

The USM is counted towards the FIDE Circuit, part of the FIDE Candidates cycle. See regulations.

NORMS

• GM, IM, WGM, WIM norms available
• Norm “Super Swiss” – normal federation requirement waived
• FIDE requires at least one Swiss norm (40+ players) to obtain GM/IM/WGM/WIM titles

SCHEDULE

Registration and bye requests close November 26, 4:00pm

​SIDE EVENTS

FREE $2000 Blitz

• Saturday, November 29
• Starts at 9:00pm
• Free Entry for USM Players - register on-site by 8:45pm

ENTRY FEES

• Entry fees are based on status at the time of registration.
• All GMs, IMs, WGMs: Free Online Entry. No deduction from prize by October 10, otherwise $200 deducted.
• Titled Player Entry (FMs, WIMs, WFMs, NMs): $339 by November 1, $369 by November 15, $399 after November 15.
• Untitled Juniors (born 2007 or after) with Peak Ratings Under 2200: Must be rated 1950+ FIDE and 2100+ USCF between September 1 and November 25: $400 more than Titled Player Entry.
• USM players who have an unsuccessful start may withdraw and join the NC Open for a discounted fee of $100 (only available to U2400 FIDE players who are not receiving conditions).

CONTACT

Click here to show mail address

Conditions are available for GMs – request conditions by October 1 and officially confirm participation by October 10 (strict deadline). Contact Dr. Walter High – Click here to show mail address

https://www.charlottechesscenter.org/events/usmasters