The IBJJF Points System
In an IBJJF match, victory is achieved by submission or, failing that, by the score at the end of regulation time. The points system rewards positional control and technical dominance, not the frequency of attacks.
| Action | Points | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Takedown | 2 points | Bring the opponent to the ground from standing and maintain control for 3 seconds |
| Sweep | 2 points | Reverse the opponent from guard and reach a dominant position, hold for 3 seconds |
| Guard pass | 3 points | Clear the opponent's legs and reach side control, north-south, or mount — hold 3 seconds |
| Mount | 4 points | Sitting on the opponent's torso, both knees on the ground, hold 3 seconds |
| Back control | 4 points | On the opponent's back, two hooks in place, hold 3 seconds |
| Knee on belly | 2 points | Knee on the opponent's stomach with control, hold 3 seconds |
Advantages
An advantage is awarded when a practitioner nearly completes a dominant technique without fully achieving it. In the event of a tied score at the end of the match, advantages separate the competitors. If advantages are also tied, the referee designates a winner by decision — or, in some formats, an overtime period is contested.
Situations that generate advantages include: a near-completion sweep, an incomplete guard pass, a takedown not held for 3 seconds, or a submission attempt that forces the opponent into active defense.
Match Duration by Belt Level
| Belt | Duration (adults) | Duration (masters) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 5 minutes | 4 minutes |
| Blue | 6 minutes | 5 minutes |
| Purple | 7 minutes | 6 minutes |
| Brown | 8 minutes | 7 minutes |
| Black | 10 minutes | 8 minutes |
Illegal Techniques by Belt Level
The IBJJF applies a strict progression of permitted techniques based on belt rank. The highest-risk techniques are reserved for advanced levels.
| Technique | White | Blue | Purple | Brown / Black |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heel hook (straight) | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal (gi) / Legal (no-gi black) |
| Reaping (ashi garami) | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal | Legal (no-gi black) |
| Kneebar | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal | Legal |
| Calf slicer | Illegal | Illegal | Legal | Legal |
| Knee twist | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal |
| Straight foot lock | Illegal | Legal | Legal | Legal |
| Neck crank / spinal lock | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal |
| Slam | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal | Illegal |
Important note: The inside heel hook (inverted heel hook) is illegal at all belt levels in IBJJF gi competition, and in no-gi up to and including brown belt.
Gi Requirements
The gi must meet precise criteria to be cleared by IBJJF referees:
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Permitted colors | White, royal blue, black (solid or combination of two colors max) |
| Jacket length | Must cover the hips, max mid-thigh |
| Sleeve length | Max 5 cm from the wrist when arm is extended |
| Pants length | Max 5 cm from the ankle |
| Belt | Matches the competitor's grade, knot visible |
| Patches / emblems | Permitted per IBJJF placement rules |
Penalties and Disqualifications
The IBJJF uses a progressive penalty system. The first penalty warns the competitor; the second grants the opponent an advantage; the third grants the opponent a point; the fourth results in disqualification. Sanctioned behaviors include stalling (refusing to engage), headbutts, dangerous throws, and verbal abuse.
Immediate disqualification is given for: use of an illegal technique, serious unsportsmanlike conduct, or failure to comply with dress code rules.
Adult Weight Classes (Overview)
| Division (men) | Max weight | Division (women) | Max weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rooster | 57.5 kg | Rooster | 48.5 kg |
| Light Feather | 64 kg | Light Feather | 53.5 kg |
| Feather | 70 kg | Feather | 58.5 kg |
| Light | 76 kg | Light | 64 kg |
| Middle | 82.3 kg | Middle | 69 kg |
| Medium Heavy | 88.3 kg | Medium Heavy | 74 kg |
| Heavy | 94.3 kg | Heavy | 79.3 kg |
| Super Heavy | 100.5 kg | Super Heavy | 84.3 kg |
| Ultra Heavy | +100.5 kg | Ultra Heavy | +84.3 kg |
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