Chess coach near me: online or in person
A chess coach near you teaches in person, so the choice is limited to people who live close; an online chess coach teaches by video from anywhere. Lessons with George Li, an International Master, are online only, 60 minutes, one-on-one. Compare any coach on who teaches, whether lessons start from your games, the cost per lesson and the cancellation terms.
Online or in person: how do they differ?
The lesson itself can be the same. What changes is travel, choice and what you can show the coach.
| Question | Online coach | Coach near you |
|---|---|---|
| Choice of coach | Anyone in your time zone range, wherever they live | Whoever teaches within a distance you can travel |
| Travel | None | Time and cost each way |
| Scheduling | A weekly time agreed around work, school and tournaments | A time that suits both people and the venue |
| Showing games and positions | Share the game link or a scoresheet | Bring a board or a scoresheet |
| Feel of the lesson | On screen, with a board on screen | At a real board |
When does a coach near you fit better?
In-person coaching fits when the student, usually a young child, concentrates better at a real board, or when you want lessons to sit inside a school or club routine.
When does an online coach fit better?
Online coaching fits when no strong coach teaches nearby, when travel would take longer than the lesson, or when you want a specific coach.
- You want a coach with a particular title or style, wherever they live.
- Your week is full and travel would cost more time than the lesson.
- You want to share online games directly in the lesson.
What should you ask any chess coach?
The same questions work online and in person:
- Who teaches the lesson, and what is their experience with players like me?
- Does the lesson start from my games?
- What does the first lesson produce?
- What does each lesson cost, and is there a package price?
- What happens if I need to move or cancel a lesson?
How do lessons with George Li work?
Lessons are online only. The first step is a 60-minute first lesson for $150; a written study plan follows by email within 3 business days.
Cancel or reschedule any lesson up to 24 hours before it starts by replying to the email that set it up, and it stays on your package. The [cost guide](/chess-coaching-cost) lists published rates for other formats, and the [pricing page](/pricing) lists ours.
Frequently asked questions
Is an online chess coach as good as one near me?
It depends on the coach, not the format. A lesson that starts from your games and ends with homework works by video. A young child may concentrate better at a real board.
Does George Li teach in person?
No. Lessons with George Li are online only, by video, one-on-one.
How do I find a chess coach near me?
Ask local clubs and tournament organizers who teaches, and use a coach directory. Ask each coach the same questions before you pay: who teaches, whether lessons use your games, what a lesson costs and how changes work.
What does a chess coach cost?
The cost guide lists published rates by format. Lessons here start with a first lesson at $150, then $125 a lesson or more, depending on the package.
Related guides and tools
- Online chess coach
- How to teach kids chess: a guide for parents
- How to choose a chess coach
- What chess coaching costs
- Book your first lesson
- Chess lesson prices and packages
- All chess guides
Last updated 2026-11-05.
Want a coach who teaches online?
Start with a first lesson: George reviews your games and builds a plan around them.
Cancel or reschedule a lesson up to 24 hours ahead by replying to the email that set it up, and it stays on your package.