WHS - Handicap Index Computation - The Golf Association of Philadelphia
Handicap Computation in WHS
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Handicap Index Computation

The formula for computing a handicap index in the World Handicap System has been changed from the current USGA Handicap System. Below are a few major highlights of how handicaps are computed in WHS:

  • New: WHS will take the lowest 8 of the golfer’s 20 most recent score differentials.
  • Old: The USGA Handicap System took the lowest 10 of the golfer’s most recent 20 score differentials, plus a multiplier of .96.
  • Effect: This means that most golfers will see a change to their handicap index on Jan. 1 when WHS launches, with lower handicap players likely seeing a slightly lower handicap index and higher handicappers seeing a slightly higher handicap index.
  • New: A golfer needs just 54 holes to establish a handicap index in WHS.
  • Old: Golfers needed the equivalent of five rounds (90 holes) to establish a USGA Handicap Index.
  • Effect: This enables more golfers the opportunity to establish and maintain a handicap index. By requiring fewer scores, players who only play sporadically may be more likely to obtain a handicap index. Statistics show that players with a handicap index play more golf, so making it easier to obtain a handicap index can help increase participation.
  • New: All scores posted by a golfer are considered for possible reduction of a handicap index if a score differential is at least 7.0 strokes below the golfer’s handicap index on the day of play.
  • Old: The golfer’s lowest two tournament round score differentials over the past 12 months were considered against the golfer’s handicap index at each revision date, and if a threshold was met, the golfer’s handicap would be reduced with a “R” following the handicap index.
  • Effect: By including all scores, the system is more intuitive and inclusive and it is simpler to explain and understand for golfers, since all score types are eligible.
  • New: The Playing Conditions Calculation (PCC) will be used to potentially adjust a golfer’s score differential upon calculation of the handicap index to account for any abnormal course or weather conditions.
  • Old: There was no adjustment of a score differential in the USGA Handicap System.
  • Effect: Including the PCC as a part of WHS will ensure that each score differential is truly reflective of a player’s performance in a given round.

Use the form below to find out what your handicap index will be in the new World Handicap System, based on scores currently submitted to your handicap record.

Key Changes in the World Handicap System

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Handicap Index Computation

Handicap Index Computation

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Course and Playing Handicap

Course and Playing Handicap

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Playing Conditions Calculation

Playing Conditions Calculation

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Exceptional Score Reduction

Exceptional Score Reduction

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