iThenticate is a plagiarism detection tool that helps researchers evaluate the originality of scholarly writing, including grant proposals, journal articles, and theses or dissertations. By comparing submitted documents against an extensive database of published literature and online content, iThenticate generates a similarity report that highlights text matches, enabling researchers to identify missing citations, improper paraphrasing, or overlooked quotations.
Auburn University holds a license with the software provider, allowing the university to offer a limited number of scans. To ensure equitable access to this resource, the University has established criteria for eligibility and provides training on how to use the software, when to use it, and how to interpret the results.
Please Note: To successfully implement iThenticate for a wider audience of researchers, Auburn University will roll out eligibility opportunities gradually. Leadership of each unit will be contacted in advance when their respective group is scheduled for software integration.
Researchers
Access to iThenticate is available to researchers whose university role is listed under Category 1 in Auburn University's Statement of Principal Investigator (PI) Eligibility. In addition to meeting this role-based requirement, individuals must complete all required training and accept Auburn University's iThenticate terms of use before access is granted. Details for eligibility criteria and Auburn University’s iThenticate User Agreement are provided in the iThenticate Training course.
Trainees
Scholarly work produced by trainees—such as theses, dissertations, manuscripts, and grant proposals—is appropriate for review using iThenticate and should be screened for originality. While trainees do not have direct access to the software, they may request that their faculty mentor or research supervisor submit documents on their behalf. This approach promotes responsible use of the tool, supports the development of strong scholarly practices, and provides faculty with valuable insight into areas where students may need additional guidance with academic writing and citation.
