Grandmaster (GM) is the highest title a chess player can earn from FIDE. It is valid for life.
The usual route: earn GM norms in international tournaments (typically three, covering at least 27 games) and reach a FIDE rating of at least 2500. Winners of certain championships, such as the World Junior Championship U20, receive the GM title directly.
A GM is not the world champion. In May 2026 there were about 1,889 grandmasters worldwide.
Women can also earn the WGM (Woman Grandmaster) title, which requires a 2300 rating. Women can still earn the GM title on the same terms as men.
Every title and its requirements are covered in Chess Titles Explained.
Related terms: International Master · FIDE Master · Norm
