Golf Handicap Calculator
Enter your recent rounds (up to 20). The best differentials are used according to WHS rules.
| Score | Course Rating | Slope Rating | Differential |
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What is a Golf Handicap?
A golf handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer's potential ability. It allows players of different skill levels to compete fairly. Under the World Handicap System (WHS), your Handicap Index is based on the average of your best eight Score Differentials from your last 20 rounds, multiplied by 0.96.
Course Handicap vs. Playing Handicap
Course Handicap™ represents the number of strokes you receive on a specific course. It adjusts your Handicap Index for the difficulty of the tees you play, using the formula:
Course Handicap = Handicap Index × (Slope Rating / 113) + (Course Rating – Par)
The Playing Handicap is your Course Handicap multiplied by a format-specific allowance (e.g., 95% for singles match play). Our calculator instantly computes both so you know exactly how many strokes you get.
How Our Calculator Works
- Course Handicap Tab: Enter your Handicap Index, Slope Rating, Course Rating and Par. Select a playing allowance to see your final Playing Handicap.
- Handicap Index Tab: Add your recent scores with their Course and Slope Ratings. The tool automatically selects the best differentials according to WHS rules and calculates your Handicap Index to one decimal place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this calculator? It follows the official WHS formulas (effective 2024). However, official handicaps must be maintained through an authorised golf club or association.
What is Slope Rating? Slope measures the relative difficulty of a course for bogey golfers compared to scratch golfers. The neutral value is 113.
Why multiply by 0.96? The 0.96 "bonus for excellence" factor ensures the Handicap Index better represents a player's potential rather than their average performance.
Use this free tool before your next round — no sign-up required. Bookmark this page for quick access.
