University or college is a great time to take up golf, or to keep playing. Many institutions have golf clubs or societies, student teams and competitions, and local courses often offer cheap student memberships. Whether you're a beginner or a competitive player, there's a place for you.
Student golf clubs and societies
- Beginners' sessions at ranges or short courses.
- Social rounds and trips. Read golf weekend breaks.
- Coaching for members.
- Socials off the course.
Teams and competitions
Competitive players can represent their university in leagues and championships, often with team match play. Read team golf competitions explained. In the USA, college golf includes scholarship programmes. Read college golf scholarships.
Memberships and cost
- Student and young adult memberships are often much cheaper.
- Twilight and off-peak rates. Read twilight golf.
- Used equipment keeps costs down. Read how much does golf cost?.
For beginners
- Join beginners' sessions.
- Hire clubs at first. Read how to rent golf clubs.
- Follow a simple plan. Read your first 30 days of golf.
Balancing golf and study
- Plan practice around timetables.
- Use golf for stress relief. Read golf and mental health.
- Nine holes fit between lectures. Read nine-hole golf.
Starting a club
If your university doesn't have a golf club, gather interested students and contact a nearby course. Read how to start a golf society.
Golf at different levels
- Recreational: social rounds, beginners' sessions and trips.
- Club teams: competitive matches against other universities.
- Elite programmes: some universities offer high-performance programmes with coaching, fitness support and travel, and in some countries scholarships. Read college golf scholarships.
A typical student golf year
| Term | What happens |
|---|---|
| Start of the year | Society fairs, trial days, beginners' sessions |
| Autumn | League matches, weekly practice, social rounds |
| Winter | Indoor practice, simulator nights, fitness |
| Spring | Championships, cup matches, tours |
| Summer | Holiday golf and summer competitions at home clubs |
Keeping costs down
- Student memberships: many clubs offer heavily discounted rates for students.
- Off-peak golf: weekday and twilight rounds are cheaper. Read twilight golf.
- Second-hand clubs: a good used set is ideal. Read buying golf clubs on a budget.
- Shared transport to courses.
- Society subsidies for matches and coaching.
Read how to play golf on a budget.
Social benefits
University golf is a great way to make friends across courses and year groups. Society trips, socials and annual dinners are often highlights. Golf is also a valuable networking skill later in life. Read business golf guide.
Golf and wellbeing at university
Time outdoors, exercise and a break from screens can support wellbeing during stressful study periods. Read golf and mental health.
Taking on a committee role
Committee roles, such as captain, treasurer or social secretary, build skills in organisation, budgeting and leadership that look good on a CV. Read how to start a golf society and how to organise a golf day.
Frequently asked questions
Can beginners join university golf clubs?
Yes, most welcome beginners.
Are there student golf memberships?
Many clubs offer discounted memberships for students and young adults.
Can I compete for my university?
Yes, if you reach the team standard.
What if my university has no golf club?
Start one with a few friends and a local course.
Do I need a handicap to join a university golf club?
Usually not for social golf. Competitive teams normally require one.
Can I keep my home club membership while at university?
Many golfers do, often switching to a cheaper country or student category.
The bottom line
University is a great time to play golf: join a club, try a team, take advantage of student rates and make friends for life. For more, read how to find golf partners.