Course handicap calculator
Convert your handicap index into the strokes you actually get on the course you're playing, using the World Handicap System formula.
Your official index
On the scorecard (55–155)
On the scorecard
For the tees you're playing
Comp/format adjustment
Course handicap
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Playing handicap
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Formula: Index × (Slope ÷ 113) + (Course Rating − Par), rounded to the nearest whole number. Leave Course Rating blank to use the simpler Index × Slope ÷ 113. Playing handicap applies your allowance % (100% = no change).
How it works
Your handicap index is portable, but the strokes you get depend on how hard a specific course plays. The World Handicap System converts your index into a course handicap with:
Course Handicap = Index × (Slope ÷ 113) + (Course Rating − Par)
Slope 113 is an average-difficulty course, so a higher slope hands you more strokes. Apply a handicap allowance percentage and you get your playing handicap for formats that use one. Those net strokes are exactly what a net Stableford or net match relies on.
Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate course handicap?
Under the World Handicap System, Course Handicap = Handicap Index × (Slope Rating ÷ 113) + (Course Rating − Par), rounded to the nearest whole number. 113 is the standard slope of an average-difficulty course, so a course with a higher slope gives you more strokes.
What is the difference between handicap index and course handicap?
Your handicap index is a portable number that travels with you. Your course handicap is that index converted for the specific course and tees you're playing — the actual number of strokes you get that day.
What is a playing handicap?
Playing handicap applies a handicap allowance (a percentage) to your course handicap for certain formats — for example 85% in some four-ball events or 90% in many individual competitions. At 100% it equals your course handicap.
What slope rating should I use?
Use the slope printed on the scorecard for the exact tees you're playing. If you don't have it, 113 is the system's neutral default, which makes the calculation simply your index adjusted by the course rating minus par.
Stop dotting strokes by hand
mashie applies course handicaps automatically in every net game and league — strokes land on the right holes, so net match play, skins, and standings just work.