Chess Titles Guide: How to Become a CM, FM, IM, or GM
Grandmaster, International Master, FIDE Master—what do these titles mean? This guide demystifies the FIDE title system, explaining the rating requirements and norms needed to achieve each rank. Whether you're an aspiring pro or just curious, learn the steps on the ladder to chess mastery.
In online chess, a rating is just a number. In the professional world (FIDE), ratings unlock lifelong titles. Once you earn a title, you keep it for life (unless revoked for cheating). Here is the ladder every professional player must climb.
1. The "Rating Only" Titles
The first two steps on the ladder only require you to reach a specific rating threshold in official tournament play. No special tournament performance ("Norms") is required.
- Candidate Master (CM)
- Requirement: 2200 Elo.
The entry-level title introduced in 2002. - FIDE Master (FM)
- Requirement: 2300 Elo.
A highly respected title. Most FMs are strong enough to beat 99% of casual players easily.
2. The "Norm" Titles (The Big Leagues)
To become an IM or GM, a high rating is not enough. You must prove you can perform at that level in high-pressure international tournaments. You need to achieve three "Norms"—a performance rating in a specific tournament that meets strict criteria (playing against other titled players, players from different countries, etc.).
International Master (IM)
- Rating: Must reach 2400 Elo at some point.
- Norms: 3 Tournament performances of 2450+ level.
- Difficulty: IMs are world-class players, often professional coaches or strong competitors.
Grandmaster (GM)
- Rating: Must reach 2500 Elo at some point.
- Norms: 3 Tournament performances of 2600+ level.
- Status: The pinnacle of chess. There are fewer than 2,000 active GMs in the world.
3. Women's Titles
FIDE offers separate titles for women (WCM, WFM, WIM, WGM). The requirements are generally 200 points lower than the open titles (e.g., WGM requires 2300 rating). Note: Women can (and often do) hold the Open titles. Judit Polgar was a GM, not just a WGM.
4. Online Titles (Arena / AGM)
Recently, FIDE introduced "Arena" titles for online play. These are generally not recognized in the serious over-the-board community and are distinct from the titles listed above.