insei

An insei is a student enrolled in a professional Go training program, generally preparing to qualify as a professional player. Insei study and play regularly within an organized system, usually under the instruction and assessment of strong players or professionals.

The purpose of the system is to develop players toward professional qualification through structured study, competition, and ranking. “Insei” refers specifically to an institutional trainee—not simply any Go student, apprentice, amateur, or player holding a dan rank. The organization, selection process, age range, and pathway to qualification vary among countries and institutions.