Alex,

To play in the US AM qualifier (to get to the US AM) I believe the handicap limit is 2.4. Here is a link to help in applying for next year: https://champs.usga.org/index.html 

Depending on where one tries to qualify it would most likely take 2 rounds of under par. The course setups tend to be pretty difficult so one would probably have to play to a +2 or +3 handicap or so. The guys that qualify are really good (top collegiate players) and many have good chances at playing successful professional golf. 

Here is a link to some of the qualifier site scores: http://www.usga.org/ChampEventQualifying.aspx?id=21474864607 

With that said, if you have a handicap index of 2.4 or less why not try to qualify? It could give you a good sense of what you need to do to realize the dream of playing in the US AM.  

Good luck, keep practicing, and I hope you make it to the US AM someday. Play well.

Brian D,

Good luck to your friend. He must be an excellent player. So happy for him. Wish him luck. What an accomplishment.

The US Amateur is very challenging in so many aspects.  I would only chase it if I felt my game was near my peak and I was at least a scratch or better golfer.  IMHO

Alex,

You are welcome.

Please do not forget that any competition is good competition. So local and state tournaments are good to get the experience to then compete at the national level.

I hope you get to realize the dream of not only trying to qualify for the US AM but also to make it. One of the greatest tournaments in the world. It sure would be an honor to tee it up in one.

Best of luck.