GM Melik Khachiyan

Head Coach of the US Women's Team since 2010
2023 Chess Educator of the Year
Discover the FIDE-Endorsed Khachiyan Chess Academy!

Huge Congrats to Caleb Levitan

Now an International Master-elect!

Huge congrats to Caleb on breaking 2400 and becoming an International Master-elect!

Caleb has officially crossed the 2400 rating mark, completing the final requirement for the International Master title! With all three of his IM norms secured between October 2023 and February 2025, today’s rating milestone at the IM RR Fantastico Spring 2025 SENTA event seals the deal.

This achievement is a powerful testament to years of hard work, talent, and unwavering dedication—and to the world-class coaching of GM Melik. For over eight years, GM Melik has mentored Caleb and his brother, Judah, guiding them from 1000-rated beginners to elite-level competitors.

Visit Melik's Facebook post to leave your comments.

Upcoming FIDE Trainer Seminar:
May 30 - June 1, 2025

Registration is OPEN: Fill out the Google Form!

Get your FIDE Trainer Title by attending this official FIDE Trainer Seminar.

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Coach Melik's Student's Success:
Jasmine Su is the 2025 Under16
All-Girls National Champion!

With a clear 1.0 point ahead of her field, Jasmine won the section with an impressive 6/6 perfect score!

The 20th Annual All-Girls National Championship, organized by the Kasparov Chess Foundation, was held April 4-6 in Chicago, IL.
Five hundred forty-five girls competed in six different sections.

Complete final standings can be found on the event's website.

GM Melik has been coaching Jasmine for over four years, and it's really wonderful to see her success. Congratulations Jasmine!

2025 Southern California Senior Champion

GM Melik Khachiyan won the state championship with a clear 1 point, 5.5/6 score! Congratulations!

The 2025 Southern California Senior (50+) State Championship was held on March 29-30 in Los Angeles. Thirty-one players competed in a 6-round Swiss tournament, with a unique G/80;d10 time control.

For the complete final standings, please visit the events page.

For pictures and to congratulate GM Melik, visit Melik's Facebook page.