IBJJF Rules Explained | Points, Advantages & Submissions Guide

The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) is the world's largest BJJ organization and the standard-setter for gi competition. Understanding IBJJF rules is essential for any competitor.

Contents

Points System

Takedown	2 points (guard pull = 0 points)
Guard Pass	3 points (must hold 3 seconds)
Knee on Belly	2 points (must hold 3 seconds)
Mount / Back Mount	4 points (must hold 3 seconds)
Rear Naked Choke position	4 points (hooks in + seatbelt)
Sweep	2 points (from guard to top)
Advantage	1 advantage (near submission or position)

Submission Legality by Belt

White Belt	No heel hooks, no knee reaping, no cervical locks
Blue/Purple Belt	No heel hooks, no knee reaping, no cervical locks
Brown/Black Belt	Straight heel hooks allowed; no reaping
Masters (35+)	Additional restrictions may apply
No-Gi (all belts)	Knee reaping rules apply at all levels

Common DQ Reasons

Knee reaping	Foot past centerline of opponent's body in leg entanglement
Slamming	Lifting and dropping opponent onto mat
Unsportsmanlike conduct	Stalling, fleeing mat, arguing with referee
Illegal submissions	Applying banned technique for your belt level
Points milestone	Winning by 50+ point margin (mercy rule)

Frequently Asked Questions

How does IBJJF scoring work?

IBJJF awards points for dominant positions held for 3+ seconds: takedown (2), sweep (2), guard pass (3), knee on belly (2), mount or back control (4). Advantages are awarded for near-scoring situations and break ties.

Are heel hooks legal in IBJJF?

Straight heel hooks are legal for brown and black belt adults only. Heel hooks are illegal for all other belt levels. Reaping the knee is illegal at all belt levels.

What happens with a points tie in IBJJF?

If the match ends in a points tie, the winner is determined first by advantages, then by fewer penalties, and finally by referee decision based on aggression and submission attempts.