Handicap Calculator

(UNDER CONSTRUCTION)

This free golf handicap calculator gives you an idea of what your official USGA Handicap Index would be. This golf handicap calculator is not affiliated with the USGA, and the result is not an official USGA Handicap Index.

Adjusted Gross Score

Gross score is, of course, every stroke a golfer has taken during a round, added up to a total score. Adjusted gross score is a golfer's stroke total for a round after accounting for the maximum per-hole scores allowed by the USGA's Equitable Stroke Control (ESC) guidelines.

All rounds turned in for handicap purposes must be played using Equitable Stroke Control guidelines, which set a cap on the score a player can take on any given hole. For example, you might actually have taken 10 strokes to play a hole, but according to ESC guidelines for your course handicap level, you may only be allowed to write a 7 on the scorecard.

All rounds turned in for handicaps must be adjusted gross scores.

Equitable Stroke Control (ESC)

Equitable Stroke Control (ESC) is the system put in place by the USGA to eliminate the effect of "distaster holes." You know, that one hole per round where you put three balls in the water and then 5-putt. It's also a way to combat those pernicious sandbaggers who intentionally blow up on a hole in order to raise their handicaps.

Equitable Stroke Control puts a limit on the number of strokes you can write down on the scorecard for any one hole, based on your course handicap. For example, on that one disaster hole you might have taken 14 strokes (get to the practice range, buddy!) to get the ball in the cup. But based on your course handicap, ESC might require you to post only a "7" on the scorecard you turn in.

Taking the "14" might throw your handicap index out of whack.