National Instructor

National Instructor, abbreviated NI, is a formal trainer title of FIDE, the International Chess Federation. It is not a generic description for anyone who teaches at national level. The title identifies a specific category within FIDE's official trainer title and licensing system.

The NI profile is for trainers able to develop students toward successful participation in national championships, international cadet championships, and regional youth events. As guidance, the regulations associate it with players usually rated from 1201 to 1700. A rating is a numerical estimate of playing strength.

The word National describes the level of work in the hierarchy, not an automatic appointment as a national-team coach. NI is also not a player title. It is awarded through the trainer-title process established by FIDE, not by someone simply using the label publicly.