How many substitutions are allowed per set in volleyball?

Full Explanation

Per FIVB Rule 15.1, each team is allowed a maximum of 6 substitutions per set. Under FIVB Rule 15.6, a substitute player may only enter the game in the position of the player they replace, and only that same starting player may replace the substitute. Under the 2025-27 USAV indoor rules, each team is allowed 15 substitutions per set; the competition format may reduce this to six per set with one entry per player (USAV Rule 15.1). Under NFHS rules, each team is allowed 18 substitutions per set (NFHS Rule 10-3-2). Under NCAA Rule 11.3.2, each team is allowed 15 substitutions per set in Division I and 18 in Divisions II and III. Libero replacements are not counted as substitutions under any ruleset. Note that USAV raised its limit to 15 in the 2025-27 rules; older summaries may quote a lower figure, so check the date on any source that disagrees.

Rulesets covered: FIVB/USAV/NFHS/NCAA  |  Rule Reference: FIVB Rule 15.1; FIVB Rule 15.6; USAV Rule 15.6; NFHS Rule 10-3-2; NCAA Rule 11.3.2