Understanding the World Handicap System (WHS)

The World Handicap System (WHS) was introduced to unify the various handicap systems used around the globe into a single, consistent standard. Understanding how it works can help you track your progress and compete fairly with any golfer, anywhere.

Calculating Your Handicap Index

Your Handicap Index is a measure of your potential ability on a course of standard playing difficulty. It is calculated from the best 8 of your most recent 20 scores.

For each round you submit, a 'Score Differential' is calculated using this formula:

Score Differential = (113 / Slope Rating) * (Adjusted Gross Score - Course Rating - Playing Conditions Calculation)

The system then averages the lowest 8 Score Differentials from your last 20 rounds to determine your Handicap Index. This rolling average ensures your handicap reflects your current form. You can get a good estimate using our Handicap Index Calculator, which also serves as a score differential calculator.

Course Handicap

Before you play, your Handicap Index is converted into a Course Handicap, which tells you how many strokes you receive on that specific course. This accounts for the difficulty of the course you're playing on that day.

You can easily find your Course Handicap using our Course Handicap Calculator.