Net Score vs. Gross Score: What's the Difference?
A fundamental concept in golf scoring. Learn the difference between gross score and net score and why it matters.
By Team on 12 July 2025
In handicap competitions, you'll frequently hear the terms 'gross score' and 'net score'. Understanding the distinction is crucial for tracking your performance and participating in events.
Gross Score
Your gross score is the actual number of strokes you took to complete a hole or a round. It's the raw, unadjusted total. If you took 5 shots on a par-4, your gross score for that hole is 5.
Net Score
Your net score is your gross score minus any handicap strokes you receive on a hole or for the round. This is what's used to determine the winner in most handicap competitions.
Net Score = Gross Score - Handicap Strokes
For example, if your gross score for a round is 90 and your Course Handicap is 18, your net score is 72 (90 - 18). This levels the playing field, allowing players of different abilities to compete against each other.
Use our Net Score Calculator to quickly find your net score for any round.