Competitions that test jumping ability within a specified time period either convert faults into seconds (Table C scoring) or convert extra seconds into faults (Table A scoring). In some contests, time is significant only when there is equality of faults.

The contest based on jumping ability alone, called Puissance, requires the horse to run over a set number of obstacles in progressively more difficult courses; there is a limit of four jump-offs for Puissance competitions.

All international shows are governed by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (International Equestrian Federation). Open to international teams of four riders, a Nations Cup is based on two rounds, with the worst score of each team in each round being discarded. The President's Cup, instituted in 1965, is based on the results of the several Nations Cup competitions each year and is considered a world team championship. The prize is awarded to the team with the six best scores.

Greatly increased prize money and attendance from the 1960s reflected the increased popularity of show jumping. Jumping events were held at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris and have been held at every Olympics from 1912 in both individual and team competition.