Plagiarism and Similarity-Screening Policy

Plagiarism and Similarity-Screening Policy

All manuscripts submitted to Al Qasimia University Journal of Shari'a Sciences and Islamic Studies are routinely screened using Turnitin before being sent for peer review.

The journal applies the following similarity limits:

  1. The overall similarity score must not exceed 20%.
  2. Similarity from any single source must not exceed 10%.

A similarity score is an initial screening indicator and does not, by itself, establish plagiarism. The Editorial Team assesses each similarity report in its academic context, taking into account the nature, source, documentation, and use of the matching text.

Properly cited quotations, bibliographic references, Qur'anic verses, Hadith texts, statutory provisions, technical definitions, research instruments, and standard academic terminology are not treated as plagiarism when they are used legitimately and documented according to accepted scholarly practice.

The Editorial Team may return a manuscript for revision, reject it, or refer it for further assessment when the similarity report indicates:

  1. Unattributed copying from the work of others.
  2. Undisclosed reuse of previously published text.
  3. Translated plagiarism.
  4. Duplicate or simultaneous publication.
  5. Substantial overlap with a previously published work.
  6. Manipulation of references or citations.
  7. Concealment of the original source of text or ideas.

The journal may require the author to explain identified similarities and provide supporting documentation. When plagiarism is confirmed before publication, the journal may reject the manuscript and terminate the review process.

When plagiarism is detected after publication, the journal takes action according to the nature and seriousness of the violation. Such action may include publishing a correction, issuing an expression of concern, retracting the article, or notifying the author’s institution.

The journal follows relevant guidance and procedural flowcharts issued by the Committee on Publication Ethics, COPE, when addressing plagiarism and research misconduct.