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Chess encyclopedia
Candidate Master Chess

Candidate Master Chess

The Chess Candidate Master is the first official title awarded by FIDE (International Chess Federation). It is ranked under (FM) FIDE Master but is a recognized milestone for players. It can signify the journey from strong novice to a titled competitor. The CM is primarily designed for ratings, unlike higher titles that require norms. It awards steadily growing performance, not occasional brilliance.

What is a Chess Candidate Master?

The player must reach a FIDE rating of 2200 at any point in their career to achieve a Chess Candidate Master and defines.This defines the standard candidate master chess rating. The title is international and permanent once awarded. In official records, it appears as “CM” before the player’s name. When people refer to “CM in chess,” they are describing this specific FIDE designation — not a national or informal title. As it is with International Masters and Grandmasters (IM & GM) titles, performance norms are nonobligatory; however you must reach a rating of 2200 in a FIDE event to qualify you for a Candidate Master.

How to Become a Candidate Master in Chess

Straightforward, yet demanding a player must:

  • Have an official FIDE ID.
  • Compete in a tournament that is FIDE-rated.
  • Have a rating of or exceed 2200.
  • Apply for the title through your national federation.

Consistency is more important than temporary increases, maintaining results across multiple occasions is more important to reach 2200 and the title. A player must be strong across opening, preparation and endgame, being resilient in a tournament is essential.

FIDE may award the title directly for exceptional results for some continental youth championships.

Importance of CM Title in Chess

The CM title signals proven strength.

A 2200-rated player usually must be accomplished in strategy, tactical calculation, and discipline.

While it does not carry the prestige of IM or GM, it has practical value:

  • Recognition in international pairings and seedings.
  • Credibility in coaching or professional chess roles.
  • Entry into stronger tournaments.

In competitive ecosystems, titles shape perception. The CM distinction communicates reliability and experience.

Candidate Master Title Conclusion

The Candidate Master title is earned through rating performance, not reputation. It represents a concrete benchmark in structured competition. For many players, it is both a goal and a foundation — proof that their skill holds up under formal scrutiny.

In modern chess, measurable progress defines credibility. The CM title formalizes that progress.