Ethics - Similarity and AI Similarity

IIUM EJ SIMILARITY THRESHOLD GUIDELINES

Turnitin Similarity Thresholds

Turnitin (%)

Editorial Decision

≤ 15

Acceptable, proceed to peer review

16–20

Acceptable, minor editorial check

21–25

Borderline, revision may be required

26–30

High similarity, revise before review

> 30

Desk reject

AI Turnitin Thresholds

AI Turnitin (%)

Editorial Decision

≤ 20

Low risk, proceed to peer review

21–30

Acceptable with caution

31–40

Moderate risk, major language revision required

41–50

High risk, desk reject

> 50

Very high risk, desk reject

Editorial note

  • Turnitin similarity is acceptable if overlap comes from methods, standards, or references.
  • AI Turnitin scores above 40% typically prevent peer review.
  • Revisions must be substantive; cosmetic paraphrasing is insufficient.