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Scoring rulesUpdated 2026-06-303 min read

Volleyball scoring: 25-point sets and the deciding set

Rally scoring, the two-point lead, service, and rotation.

Volleyball uses rally scoring: the side that wins a rally scores one point and either gains or keeps the serve.

Winning a set

  • The first four sets in a best-of-five match are normally played to 25 points.
  • A side must lead by two points, so play continues after 24–24.
  • The fifth, deciding set is normally played to 15 points, again with a two-point lead.

Service and rotation

When the receiving side wins a rally, it gains the serve and rotates one position clockwise. Record the point first, then confirm who serves next and whether that side must rotate.

Start scoring with iScoreboard

Set up a match, keep score, and show the result on another screen.

Open the scoreboard

Frequently asked questions

What happens at 24–24?

Play continues until one side leads by two points.

Is the deciding set played to 15?

Usually yes, with a two-point lead still required.