Golf Handicap Calculator – WHS Handicap Index
This golf handicap calculator uses the World Handicap System adopted by the USGA. Enter each round's adjusted gross score with the course rating and slope rating of the tees you played. It works out the score differential for every round, picks the lowest differentials based on how many rounds you have (the best 8 of your most recent 20), applies the adjustment for fewer than 20 scores, and returns your Handicap Index. Add a course rating, slope and par to see your course handicap, the strokes you get on that course. It is an estimate for practice, not an official USGA index.
Golf Handicap Calculator
Calculate your World Handicap System index from your scores, ratings and slopes.
How to use the Golf Handicap Calculator
- Enter your most recent rounds: adjusted score, course rating and slope.
- Add rows until you have up to 20 rounds.
- Read your Handicap Index and which rounds counted.
- Enter the course you will play to get your course handicap.
World Handicap System formula
Score differential = (113 ÷ slope) × (adjusted gross score − course rating). Handicap Index = average of the lowest 8 of the last 20 differentials. Course handicap = index × slope ÷ 113 + (course rating − par).
Features
- World Handicap System method
- Score differential for each round
- Best 8 of 20, with fewer-score table
- Course handicap for any tee
- Shows which rounds count
- CSV export
Frequently asked questions
How is a golf handicap calculated?
Each round gets a differential: (113 ÷ slope) × (adjusted score − course rating). Your Handicap Index is the average of the lowest 8 differentials from your last 20 rounds.
How many rounds do I need for a handicap?
Three 18-hole rounds (or the 9-hole equivalent). With fewer than 20 rounds, fewer differentials count and some get an extra adjustment.
What is an adjusted gross score?
Your score after limiting each hole to a maximum, which under WHS is net double bogey. It stops one bad hole from inflating your handicap.
What is the difference between Handicap Index and course handicap?
The index measures your ability. Course handicap = index × slope ÷ 113 + (course rating − par), the strokes you get on a specific set of tees.
Is this an official handicap?
No. Official Handicap Indexes come from a golf club through your national association. This tool estimates the same math for practice.