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Free trial classes are available for new students only who have not previously enrolled in GMChessPrep programs.


    About Us

    GMChessPrep Academy

    About GMChessPrep Founded by Grandmaster Rashad Babaev, GMChessPrep (established January 2013) is more than just a chess academy, it’s a transformative journey. With programs for students of all ages and levels, our mission goes beyond rating points: we develop thinking minds, build character, and instill lifelong skills through the power of chess.
    At GMChessPrep, we believe chess is not just a game, it’s a global language of discipline, creativity, and strategic growth. Whether you’re a beginner learning the rules or a rising prodigy chasing titles, our structured programs adapt to your pace, style, and goals.
    Since our establishment in January 2013, GMChessPrep has grown into a multifaceted educational platform. While we are deeply committed to nurturing young minds, our focus extends far beyond children. We work with adults, professionals, businesses, and organizations, using chess as a powerful tool to enhance strategic thinking, decision-making, leadership, and collaboration.

    Through corporate training, workshops, and strategic partnerships, GMChessPrep collaborates with businesses and institutions that value innovation, critical thinking, and long-term growth. Our approach bridges education, performance, and real-world application, demonstrating that the lessons of chess are just as impactful in the boardroom as they are on the board.

    Our Philosophy:

    “Chess is not just about creating champions, it’s about shaping thinkers.”
    Every move a student makes reflects critical thinking, emotional control, and pattern recognition, skills that transcend the board and empower success in life.

    GM Rashad Babaev playing chess with a student at a Reston community event
    Collection of gold and silver chess tournament trophies for top place winners

    Our Signature: You Are One Square Ahead

    This is more than a tagline, it’s the mindset we instill in every student. It means always thinking forward, staying composed under pressure, and learning to adapt, in chess and in life. Every lesson, every tournament, and every failure is a step forward when you train with this mentality.

    Meet GM Rashad Babaev

    Born in Baku, Azerbaijan a nation steeped in chess legacy GM Rashad Babaev trained under legends like Oleg Privorotsky (mentor to World Champion Garry Kasparov) and absorbed insights from the likes of Mark Dvoretsky. He’s not just a champion on the board; he’s a visionary coach off it.

    • Former coach of Azerbaijan’s national youth teams (2003–2009)

    • Coached multiple students to Grandmaster and international medalist status

    • Led scholastic teams to National, State, and International championships

    His approach? Deeply personal, endlessly patient, and driven by one goal: to unlock your potential, one move at a time.

    GM Rashad Babaev

    Founder and CEO of GMChessPrep

    Grandmaster Rashad Babaev with young chess tournament award winners holding their trophies and certificates

    Why GMChessPrep?

    • Elite-Level Mentorship – Learn directly from a Grandmaster with real-world tournament success
    • Holistic Growth – We develop tournament players, scholars, and strategic minds
    • Customized Coaching Plans – No cookie-cutter lessons—just world-class prep, tailored to you
    • Results You Can See – Students win titles, improve grades, gain confidence, and think deeper

    Join the GMChessPrep Family

    Whether you’re an aspiring young talent or a curious adult learner, GMChessPrep welcomes you. Start your journey with a team that sees your future and prepares you to be one square ahead.

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