The champion of the third division was determined after a two-legged match between the winners of the two leagues.
However, in recent years this final game was not organised anymore due to lack of interest.
Each team played 34 matches during the regular season (from August till May).
In the first round, the 6 qualifiers from the third division ware drawn in three matches played in two legs.
In each round, the away goals rule was used to declare the winner in case of aggregate tie score.
The three-period rankings and promotion playoff between third and fourth tier teams were scrapped.