BJJ Rule Sets Compared: IBJJF vs ADCC vs EBI vs Submission Only
BJJBJJ App Team·⏱️ 2 min read·🔄 Mar 31, 2026
☰Contents
Compare BJJ rule sets: IBJJF points, ADCC advantages, EBI overtime, and submission-only formats explained side by side.
Contents
Why Rule Sets Matter
Different rule sets reward different game styles. Knowing which ruleset you are competing under determines what techniques to prioritize, what positions score, and what strategies are optimal. Competing under the wrong preparation is a common mistake.
Rule Set Comparison
| Format | Scoring | Leg Locks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBJJF Gi | Points (takedown 2, pass 3, mount 4, back 4) | Heel hooks banned; straight ankle by rank | 5-10 min by belt |
| IBJJF No-Gi | Same as gi | Same restrictions by belt | 5-10 min by belt |
| ADCC | Advantages in first half, points in second | All leg locks allowed (heel hooks, etc.) | 10-20 min by division |
| EBI | Submission only; overtime if no sub | All submissions allowed | 10 min + OT |
| Submission Only | Submission only; points may apply | Varies by organization | Unlimited or time-limited |
IBJJF Points System
- Takedown/Guard pull reversal: 2 points
- Knee on belly: 2 points
- Guard pass: 3 points
- Mount/Back control: 4 points
- Advantages: Tie-breaker only
ADCC Scoring
First half is pure submission only — any submission wins; no advantages or points count. Second half adds points for takedowns (+1) and passing (+2 from guard, +3 from standing). This creates strategic variation mid-match.
💡 Strategy tip: In IBJJF, position before submission is law. In ADCC, a first-half submission wins regardless of position. Know your ruleset and compete accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which BJJ rule set is best for beginners to compete under?
IBJJF gi with points is generally the best first competition format. The point system rewards good positional BJJ and discourages dangerous leg locks, which are restricted at lower belts. The structure also gives you something to fight for even if you cannot get a submission.
What is the difference between IBJJF and ADCC scoring?
IBJJF uses a consistent points system throughout the match. ADCC uses a time-based format where the first half is submission only, and points are only counted in the second half. ADCC also allows all leg locks regardless of level.
What is EBI overtime format?
EBI (Eddie Bravo Invitational) uses a 10-minute regulation period. If no submission occurs, competitors go to overtime rounds where they alternate starting from a back take position and a spider web position, with the faster escape or faster submission winning.