In 2020, the Illinois Chess Association started offering an annual education stipend for high school graduates in the amount of $500 as a way to say thank you to our youth for their continued membership and support of chess in Illinois. It is intended to help ICA members who are about to go to college, enter the military or consider a gap year after high school graduation.

Any current high school senior graduating in 2022, regardless of chess skills or tournament participation, who has been a member of the ICA since at least January 2020 is welcome to apply. Starting in 2024, eligibility requirements for the stipend will include uninterrupted ICA membership for all four high school years.

To apply, send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by July 1, 2022 stating your name, contact information, date of graduation, and where you are going in the fall.

The drawing for the $500 stipend will take place on August 1, 2022 among those who apply by the deadline and meet the requirements.

If you have any further questions, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..