What is rally scoring in volleyball?

Rally scoring means a point is awarded on every single rally, regardless of which team served. The first team to 25 points (with a 2-point lead) wins the set. This replaced the old sideout scoring system.

Full Explanation

Per FIVB Rule 6.3, under rally scoring (used in all modern volleyball), a rally is played out and a point is awarded to the winning team regardless of which team served. Previously, only the serving team could score (sideout scoring). Sets are won by the first team to reach 25 points with a minimum 2-point lead (no cap under FIVB). The deciding set (set 5, or set 3 in best-of-3 formats) is played to 15 points with a 2-point lead. NFHS uses a cap of 27 points (set 5 cap of 17). NCAA does not use a point cap.

Rulesets covered: FIVB/USAV/NFHS/NCAA  |  Rule Reference: FIVB Rule 6.3; NFHS Rule 5-3