What is the Acceptable Duplication Rate for a Master's Thesis (What is the Acceptable Plagiarism Check Rate for a Graduate Thesis)

Posted on Edited on In ,
This article provides a detailed breakdown of acceptable plagiarism check rates for both Master's and Doctoral theses in China, explaining the consequences and required actions for different duplication rate ranges, from direct approval to potential postponement or revocation of defense eligibility.

It is well known that a graduate degree represents the highest level of academic qualification in China, with degrees categorized into Master’s and Doctoral degrees. To obtain a degree upon graduation, students must write a thesis, and the first hurdle for a well-written thesis is passing the plagiarism check. So, what is the acceptable plagiarism check rate for a graduate thesis?

I. Plagiarism Check Rate for Master’s Theses

1. Duplication rate less than 10%
The degree evaluation committee considers the thesis as passing and it can be directly submitted for review and defense.

2. Duplication rate between 10% and 15%
The advisor should consider the duplication rate of the core sections of the thesis along with other relevant factors to determine whether the thesis involves academic misconduct. Based on the assessment, the advisor may provide specific and detailed suggestions for revisions before resubmitting the thesis for plagiarism check after modifications.

3. Duplication rate between 15% and 30%
The degree evaluation committee will determine the type and nature of academic misconduct in the thesis based on the duplication rate of the core sections. The student must fill out a revision application form, revise the thesis, and undergo another plagiarism check. In severe cases, the defense may be postponed.

4. Duplication rate greater than 30%
The degree evaluation committee will determine the type and nature of academic misconduct in the thesis based on the duplication rate of the core sections and other handling opinions. Generally, the defense will be postponed for six months, and the student must apply to revise the thesis. The defense can proceed only after the plagiarism check is passed. In severe cases, the defense eligibility may be revoked.

II. Plagiarism Check Rate for Doctoral Theses

1. Duplication rate less than 5%
The thesis can be directly submitted for review or defense.

2. Duplication rate between 5% and 10%
The advisor will review the thesis to assess its originality and determine whether academic misconduct exists. Based on the advisor’s assessment, corresponding actions will be taken.

3. Duplication rate between 10% and 20%
The student must fill out a re-examination application form with the advisor, apply for revisions and another plagiarism check. If the check is passed, the student can proceed to the defense; otherwise, the defense will be postponed.

4. Duplication rate greater than 20%
The degree evaluation committee will determine the type and nature of academic misconduct in the thesis based on the duplication rate of the core sections and other handling opinions. The defense must be postponed for six months to a year. If the revised thesis passes the plagiarism check after six months, the defense can proceed. In severe cases, the defense eligibility may be revoked.

To learn more about thesis writing tips, continue to follow the turndetect.co thesis knowledge channel. We will collect more thesis-related knowledge for everyone.