Here’s How Golfers Can Qualify For the 2026 Masters
Augusta National just released the entry rules for 2026’s event, which starts April 9, 2026. The mix includes old winners, new stars, and fresh talent.
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 12: Jon Rahm of Spain lines up a putt on the fifth green during the third round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 12, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Getting into the Masters Tournament takes skill, luck, and perfect timing. Augusta National just released the entry rules for 2026's event, which starts April 9, 2026. The mix includes old winners, new stars, and fresh talent.
The green jacket comes with a big perk — you can play whenever you want. Stars like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Tiger Woods join other champions who choose to return each spring.
Win a major, and you're in. The U.S. Open sent Wyndham Clark, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Bryson DeChambeau to Augusta. The Open Championship did the same for Brian Harman, Cameron Smith, Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa.
Young talent gets invites through amateur events — win or place second at the U.S. Amateur or take first at the British Amateur, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, U.S. Mid-Amateur, or NCAA Division I events.
The PGA Tour offers paths too. Win a full-point event between Masters tournaments, and you'll play in April. Make the world's top 50 by 2025's end or the week before tee-off, and Augusta calls.
Olympic gold also puts you on the list. The Tour Championship at East Lake opens another door.
The top 12 players from the 2025 Masters have already secured a spot for the 2026 Masters.
