In general, the contest consists of three rounds with a time limit for each contender set by the

referee. Sometimes time limits are agreed on by the participants before the battle. For 1 on 1 and 2
on 2, time limits are generally 1 minute to 3 minutes (with 30 second increments) and 5 minutes
respectively. Odd number of judges are selected to judge the battle to prevent draws. Early iteration
of rules allowed judges to vote for overtime. In early years, majority of judges voted for overtime or if
no definite winner emerged from judges' votes. However recently, the judges are not allowed to vote
for overtime, they should pick a winner. The first turn is determined by a coin toss. The winner of
coin toss will select who will start the battle. Written or non-written lines are allowed. Both sides can
also bring props for the event. Filipino language is the primary medium although other languages or
dialects can be used. Choking in any rounds increase the chance of losing the battle. The winner is
determined by the decision of the judges. The criteria for judging are the usage of words, audience
impact, delivery, and rapping style.[3][6]
There are different conferences in FlipTop such as the Filipino Conference, Bisaya Conference, and
English Conference among others.