Golf Handicap Calculator
Calculate your score differentials and an estimated Handicap Index from your recent rounds using the World Handicap System formula.
Advertisement
About the Golf Handicap Calculator
Under the World Handicap System, each round produces a score differential that adjusts your score for course difficulty: (113 ÷ slope rating) × (adjusted gross score − course rating). Your Handicap Index is based on the best 8 differentials of your most recent 20 rounds. This calculator estimates your index from up to 8 rounds using the same system's rules for smaller samples.
How to use it
- Enter your adjusted gross score, the course rating and the slope rating for each round.
- Enter at least three rounds.
- Press Calculate handicap to see your differentials and estimated Handicap Index.
World Handicap System rounds used
| Rounds | Differentials used | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Lowest 1 | −2.0 |
| 4 | Lowest 1 | −1.0 |
| 5 | Lowest 1 | 0 |
| 6 | Lowest 2 | −1.0 |
| 7 to 8 | Lowest 2 | 0 |
| 9 to 11 | Lowest 3 | 0 |
| 12 to 14 | Lowest 4 | 0 |
| 20 | Lowest 8 | 0 |
Where to find course rating and slope
The course rating and slope rating are printed on the scorecard for each set of tees and are published by your golf association and course websites.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my golf handicap?
Find the differential of each round using the slope and course rating, then average your best differentials from your most recent rounds.
What is a score differential?
(113 divided by slope) times (adjusted gross score minus course rating). It compares rounds across courses.
How many rounds do I need for a handicap?
The World Handicap System needs at least 54 holes (three 18-hole rounds) to establish an index.
What is slope rating?
A number from 55 to 155 that shows how hard a course is for a bogey golfer compared with a scratch golfer. 113 is average.
Is this an official handicap?
No. Your official Handicap Index comes from a golf association or club.
Last reviewed: November 2026. An estimate. Your official Handicap Index must come from a golf association or club using the World Handicap System.