Golf Handicap Calculator
Estimate your golf handicap index from three recent 18-hole scores plus course and slope rating — a simplified take on the WHS formula.
How it works
differential = (score − course rating) × 113 ÷ slope · index ≈ average of best 2 of 3 × 0.96
Each round is converted to a score differential, which normalizes the score for how hard the course plays: the course rating anchors what a scratch golfer shoots, and the slope (113 = standard) stretches or shrinks the gap for everyone else. Averaging your best differentials — not all of them — measures your potential rather than your typical day. This three-round version mirrors the structure of the official WHS calculation but is deliberately simplified.
Worked example
Rounds of 88, 92 and 85 at a 72.0-rated, 113-slope course give differentials of 16.0, 20.0 and 13.0. Best two average (13.0 + 16.0) ÷ 2 = 14.5, and 14.5 × 0.96 = 13.9 — the estimated index.
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from an official handicap?
An official WHS index needs scores posted through a licensed club or association and uses your best 8 of 20 differentials, exceptional-score caps and daily course-condition adjustments. This estimate exists so you know roughly where you stand before you have one.
Where do I find course and slope rating?
On the scorecard or the tee signs for the tees you played — each tee set has its own pair. Standard slope is 113; harder tees commonly run 125–145.
What does my index mean on a given course?
Your playing handicap ≈ index × (slope ÷ 113) plus a rating-vs-par adjustment. A 13.9 index plays to about 16 strokes on a 130-slope course.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.