Event Information

Everything you need to know about the Lehigh Open Chess Tournament.

Date

Saturday, September 19, 2026

Location

Lehigh University

Prize Pool

$4,000 guaranteed

Player Limit

120 players

Format
Format
5-round Swiss
Time control
G/30; d5
Rating
USCF rated (Open)
Byes
Up to 2 half-point byes; commit before Round 3
Equipment
Bring your own set & clock
Cell phone policy: phones are not permitted at the board. Leave them in your bag, car, or hotel.
Schedule
  • Registration closes9:30 AM
  • Round 110:00 AM
  • Lunch break11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Round 212:30 PM
  • Round 32:00 PM
  • Round 43:30 PM
  • Round 5 (Final)5:00 PM
  • Prize ceremony7:00 PM

Sections & Prizes

Open Section
  • Entry: $73 by 7/15 · $83 by 8/31 · $93 at site or online until 9:30 AM 9/19
  • USCF rated. USCF ID required.
  • Prizes (cash, guaranteed):
  • · 1st Place — $800
  • · 2nd Place — $550
  • · 3rd Place — $350
  • · U2000 — $200, $125
  • · U1800 — $175, $100
  • · U1500 — $150, $75
  • · U1000 — $125, $75
  • Total prize fund: $4,000 guaranteed.
Non-rated Section
  • Entry: $52 by 7/15 · $63 by 8/31 · $73 at site or online until 9:30 AM 9/19
  • Eligibility: Rated under 1000 or unrated. Not open to players rated 1000+.
  • No USCF membership required.
  • Prizes: $225 / $125 / $75 for top 3 finishers.
  • Perfect for beginners and scholastic players.
Team Prizes
  • Teams of 4 players, average rating ≤ 2200.
  • Combined top 4 scores determine placement.
  • Prizes: $400 / $250 / $200.