Estimate your Handicap Index with the World Handicap System method: enter 3 to 20 rounds with each round's Adjusted Gross Score, Course Rating and Slope Rating. [1]
How the calculation works
Each round becomes a Score Differential: (Adjusted Gross Score − Course Rating − PCC) × 113 ÷ Slope Rating. PCC is the daily Playing Conditions Calculation, which this tool does not apply. [3] Your Handicap Index is the average of your lowest differentials, with these adjustments when you have fewer than 20 scores: [2]
| Scores in record | Differentials used | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Lowest 1 | −2.0 |
| 4 | Lowest 1 | −1.0 |
| 5 | Lowest 1 | 0 |
| 6 | Average of lowest 2 | −1.0 |
| 7–8 | Average of lowest 2 | 0 |
| 9–11 | Average of lowest 3 | 0 |
| 12–14 | Average of lowest 4 | 0 |
| 15–16 | Average of lowest 5 | 0 |
| 17–18 | Average of lowest 6 | 0 |
| 19 | Average of lowest 7 | 0 |
| 20 | Average of lowest 8 | 0 |
Table from USGA Rules of Handicapping, Rule 5.2a [2].
Worked example
You shoot an Adjusted Gross Score of 90 on a course rated 71.2 with a Slope of 128. Differential = (90 − 71.2) × 113 ÷ 128 = 16.6. With 20 scores, your Index is the average of your best 8 such differentials.
What this tool can't do
- It doesn't apply PCC, the soft and hard caps, or exceptional score reductions. [3]
- It needs your adjusted score (net double bogey maximum per hole), not your raw score.
- For an official Index, post through your national association (GHIN in the US).
New to handicaps? Read what a golf handicap is and how it's calculated.
FAQ
How do I calculate my golf handicap?
Work out a Score Differential for each round — (Adjusted Gross Score − Course Rating) × 113 ÷ Slope — then average your lowest 8 of your last 20.
Does the World Handicap System use 96%?
No. The 0.96 multiplier belonged to the old USGA Handicap System; the WHS averages the best 8 of 20 with no multiplier.
How many rounds do I need for a handicap?
At least 3 18-hole scores (or the equivalent in 9-hole scores).
What is a WHS handicap calculator?
A tool that applies the World Handicap System formula to your scores, ratings and slopes to estimate a Handicap Index.
Sources
- USGA — FAQs: how is a Handicap Index calculated
- USGA Rules of Handicapping — Rule 5.2a, fewer than 20 scores
- USGA — Rules of Handicapping (effective 2024)