Every golfer has a dream course list, courses that they wish to visit and if given a chance and even play on if the opportunity presents itself. Courses that are popular such as Pebble Beach and Augusta National top this list for most golfers.

While other courses might be more accessible, the same is not true for the home of the Masters event. Since it is one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the world, playing on it is truly a privilege very few golfers get in their lifetime.

Cost to have the dream membership

Fulfilling your dream of playing at the Augusta National Golf Club where legendary golfers have played costs a fairly decent amount. It however is not something that would pinch your pocket. The membership costs are relatively low compared to other exclusive clubs of similar stature.

The initiation fee for Augusta National membership is estimated to be in the range of $40,000 approx and the yearly dues are estimated to be a few thousand dollars per year. These fees are subject to change and it’s advisable to contact the club directly for the most up-to-date information since the fee is revised periodically.

While the economic cost of this membership might not be high, the social prestige of receiving one certainly is. The membership fee is an amount that a lot of people can afford but not many are invited to be members of this prestigious club. It’s important to note that becoming an Augusta National member is not a straightforward process.

There is no application process, and if you express interest in membership, your chances of being considered reportedly decrease. Prospective members go through a rigorous vetting process, which is not of public knowledge and only a select few are chosen.

How does one get a membership?

There are only 300 membership spots available and every time one spot falls vacant, other members are also given the discretion of nominating individuals for the membership. These are not only golfers but come from various fields, including business, politics, and sports.

Notable members have included Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, billionaire Warren Buffett, CEOs from prominent companies like IBM, Bank of America, MillerCoors, and more as well as individuals from the sports world, including NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, Hall of Famer Lynn Swann, and former college football coach Lou Holtz.

More recently 10 majors and 72 LPGA Tour titles winner Annika Sorenstam was declared to be fit for the Green Jacket, adding her name to the prestigious 300 names. It’s also worth noting that Augusta National did not admit its first female members until 2012 with Condoleezza Rice and Darla Moore becoming the first two women admitted.

When can a member play at the Augusta National?

The club’s season typically runs from October through May with a break during the Masters which ranges mostly up to a week to ten days. Members have the privilege of bringing guests but guests are not allowed on the property until the member has arrived.

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The guest are also charged a green fees and which is not disclosed in the public domain either. Every Augusta National employee is given a chance to play on the course once in a year. Every golfer who plays professionally can qualify for the Masters and play at Augusta. Every caddy who is working at the Augusta National golf club also gets the phenomenal chance of playing once on the course every year. One day after the conclusion of The Augusta Masters, top sports journalists get a media pass to play at the course.

It is pretty evident that playing at Augusta National is one of the most daunting and challenging tasks. The privilege is not bestowed upon everyone and those who get the privilege of being in this 300 pool would not want to miss it.

The exclusivity of this club is what makes its membership so prestigious and desirable.

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