How it works
A knockout path from qualifying to Wembley
The early rounds belong to non-league and lower-division clubs. League One and League Two clubs join at the first round proper; Premier League and Championship clubs enter at the third round in January. Ties are single-match knockouts, with extra time and penalties available when required rather than a replay from the first round proper onward.
The draw can send a major club to a much smaller ground, which is central to the competition's appeal and also changes ticket supply dramatically. Use the named event page once the draw and venue are confirmed.