The competition will be held in three rounds:[2] Within each round of six dives, one dive must be from each of the six groups (forward, back, reverse, inward, twisting, and armstand).

Each dive is assigned a degree of difficulty based on somersaults, position, twists, approach, and entry.

There is no limit to the degree of difficulty of dives; the most difficult dives calculated in the FINA rulebook (reverse 4 1⁄2 somersault in pike position and armstand reverse 4 somersault in pike position) are 4.8, but competitors could attempt more difficult dives.

[2] All times are Japan standard time (UTC+9)[1] The top 12 divers at the 2019 World Aquatics Championships earned a quota spot for their NOC.

Additional quota places go to the next best finishers in the 2020 FINA World Cup (with the same limitations) until the maximum number of divers is reached.