Academic Integrity
Can I Pay Someone to Proofread My University Essay?
Complete guide to academic integrity and professional proofreading. Understand what's allowed and how to use editing services ethically.
The Short Answer: Yes, But With Guidelines
Professional proofreading is generally permitted, but there are important rules to follow
What's Generally Allowed
- Grammar, spelling, and punctuation corrections
- Basic formatting and presentation improvements
- Language clarity enhancements
- Reference formatting corrections
- General writing style improvements
What's Not Allowed
- Adding new content or ideas
- Substantially rewriting sections
- Changing your argument or conclusions
- Completing work on your behalf
- Providing research or analysis
University-Specific Policies
Most UK universities have similar but specific guidelines
Russell Group Universities
Policy:
Generally permit proofreading for language, grammar, and presentation
Requirements:
Must not change content or improve arguments
Cambridge & Oxford
Policy:
Allow professional proofreading with disclosure requirements
Requirements:
May need to declare professional help used
Most UK Universities
Policy:
Permit copy-editing services for non-native English speakers
Requirements:
Original ideas and arguments must remain student's own