How is a Handicap Index® Calculated?

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Course Management · Aug 25, 2026 · 556 views · 15 likes

Know Before You Play is a video series designed to help golfers better understand the World Handicap System™ and how it supports fair, fun, and equitable play for everyone. Each short video breaks down key handicapping concepts in a clear, golfer-friendly way, helping you feel confident about posting scores and getting the most out of your Handicap Index®. In this video, we explain how a Handicap Index is calculated, from your posted scores and Score Differentials to building your scoring record and the safeguards built into the World Handicap System™. To learn more about the World Handicap System or to find additional resources, visit www.usga.org/whs. For live streaming of the U.S. Open and the U.S. Women's Open Presented by Ally, plus live scoring, articles, photos and more, visit usopen.com, uswomensopen.com, and the USGA App. The USGA is a mission-based golf organization whose purpose is to unify the golf community through handicapping and grassroots programs; to showcase the game’s best talent through the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open and 13 other national championships and our museum; to provide unbiased global governance with The R&A through the playing, equipment and Amateur Status rules; and to advance issues important to golf’s future, with a focus on driving sustainability, accessibility and inclusion. As a nonprofit association, our work and our team are driven to act for the good of the game. For more, visit www.usga.org. Own your piece of golf history with U.S. Open and USGA championship merchandise: www.usgashop.com For licensing footage or other inquiries, please contact USGA Broadcasting at usgabroadcasting@usga.org.