Your Handicap Index® and the World Handicap System™

Now that you have access to a Handicap Index through iGolf, it is important to understand how it is calculated, how it changes, and how to manage it correctly under the World Handicap System. 

What Your Handicap Index Allows You To Do

1.

Submit general play scores

Record your scores so your Handicap Index reflects your most recent performance. 

2.

Track performance trends

See how your Handicap Index changes over time as new scores are added.

3.

Monitor key stats about your game

Review scoring patterns and round data to better understand your strengths and areas for improvement. 

How Your Handicap Index Is Calculated 

Your Handicap Index is based on your Score Differentials™. 

A Score Differential is calculated using: 

  • Your adjusted gross score
    • Course Rating™
    • Slope Rating®
    • Playing Conditions Calculation where applicable 

View our view our full guide on Score Differential™

Your Handicap Index® is calculated from the best 8 Score Differentials from your most recent 20 acceptable scores. 

Link to resource hub for full formula explanation. 

When you have fewer than 20 acceptable scores, your Handicap Index is calculated using a different scale based on the number of scores submitted. 

As more scores are added, the calculation gradually transitions until it is based on the best 8 of 20. 

Refer to the table below for a breakdown. 

Number of Score in scoring record Score(s) to be used in calculation of Handicap Index Adjustment
3 Lowest 1 -2.0
4 Lowest 1 -1.0
5 Lowest 1 0
6 Average of lowest 2 -1.0
7 or 8 Average of lowest 2 0
9 to 11 Average of lowest 3 0
12 to 14 Average of lowest 4 0
15 or 16 Average of lowest 5 0
17 or 18 Average of lowest 6 0
19 Average of lowest 7 0
20 Average of lowest 8 0

 

How and Why Your Handicap Index Changes

Your Handicap Index updates following the submission of an acceptable score. 

In certain circumstances, significant score improvements may trigger adjustments under the Rules of Handicapping. 

Caps are applied within the system to limit extreme upward movement over a rolling 12 month period. 

Submitting Scores 

To ensure your Handicap Index remains accurate: 

  • Scores must be pre-registered where required
  • Acceptable formats of play must be followed
  • Scores must be attested in line with the Rules of Handicapping 

For full details on score submission and attestation requirements, visit the resource hub. 

 

Who Can Attest My Scores? 

For a score to be acceptable for handicapping purposes, it must be attested by a golfer who has witnessed your round. 

A score can be attested by any golfer who has access to the MyEG app through: 

  • A golf club membership 
  • An iGolf subscription 
  • An iPlay account 

The attester must have played with you or witnessed your round and can confirm your score directly within the MyEG app. 

For full guidance on score submission and attestation requirements, please refer to the resource hub.