Becoming a Chess Grandmaster
I have recently shared my thoughts on the process of becoming a chess GM in several interviews. If you are aspiring to become one, this could be a useful info for you!
How Long Does It Take To Become A Chess Grandmaster?
You cannot set an exact timing for that. Any coach could lead a student to a level up to 1800, if a student is actually eager to study. It is harder to get a level higher than that, but possible. You need to begin studying from childhood.
For example, it took me a year of intensive studying to go from a level of 2200 up to 2300. It would take around 4-5 years to reach a level of 2000-2200 for an adult, though that depends on the person, of course. I started playing chess when I was 5 and taking part in tournaments at the age of 8. I was a Candidate Master at the age of 12 (this is when I reached 2200 level), playing with that title for 5 years, then after a break I decided to reach FIDE master level.
How Hard Is It To Become A Chess Grandmaster?
It seems to me that it is really hard. Some people dedicate their whole life to it. Usually, if a chess player reaches a level of 2000, it is already considered a great result. After that it is more complicated and serious. You need to study with titled players and Grandmasters. And of course, you need to dedicate all of your time to it, which is why it’s convenient to do that during school years.
On the other hand, if you are an adult with some savings, and you are ready to dedicate 5-7 years of your life to become a grandmaster, it should work. But usually people at that age do not put it as a priority - they have a family and children.
How Much Do Grandmaster Chess Players Actually Make?
It is not enough for an average GM to make a living only by taking part in tournaments. A GM can earn on streaming, helping other talented GMs by assisting them or coaching others, signing contracts with companies that promote chess or sell educational courses. You can create articles or develop software. So it is not very profitable, but it is possible to build a business around it.
When it comes to GMs that only earn money on tournaments, only first 20 players earn enough. They also usually have sponsors: for example, Daniil Dubov signed a contract with World of Chess. Without it, they would have to have a job besides playing. Some of them coach at the same time. I would say an average GM earns around 3000 $ per month, not more.
What else would you like to know about GMs?