Turnitin AI Score Meaning: 0%, *%, 20% and Above Explained
Independent guide. Not affiliated with Turnitin, LLC. Read the Turnitin disclaimer.
The Turnitin AI score is the percentage of qualifying text that Turnitin's model thinks is likely AI-generated, including text that was AI-generated and then revised by AI tools. It isn't a probability that you cheated.
What each score means
| Score | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 0% | No likely AI text found |
| *% | 1% to 19%: shown as an asterisk, no highlights, because false positives are more likely at this level |
| 20% to 100% | Number shown; likely AI sentences highlighted for review |
| -- / unavailable | File didn't meet requirements (length, language, file type) |
Two real examples
How the score is calculated
Turnitin counts only qualifying long-form prose, splits it into overlapping segments, scores each, and reports the share likely AI-written. Lists, tables and references usually don't qualify. See the AI writing report explained.
What institutions do with it
Turnitin's own disclaimer says the score may be wrong and shouldn't be the only basis for action. Usually a high score leads to a closer read and a conversation.
Your score is high. Now what?
Rewrite the highlighted sentences (how) or let our editors do it for $5.99 per 200 words. Find out your score first for $3.50.
Frequently asked questions
What does 0% AI mean on Turnitin?
Turnitin found no text it considers likely AI-generated or AI-modified.
What does *% mean on the Turnitin AI report?
The AI score is between 1% and 19%. Turnitin hides the number and highlights because low scores have a higher false-positive risk.
Is 20% AI on Turnitin bad?
It's the point where Turnitin shows a number and highlights. Many reviewers look more closely from there, but policies vary.
See your Turnitin AI and similarity scores first.
- Turnitin similarity report (PDF)
- Turnitin AI writing report (PDF)
- Not stored in any shared repository
- Ready usually within 30 minutes
2 free checks with every 10 you buy.
Get my Turnitin reportsFlagged as AI? Our editors rewrite it by hand.
- Human editors, not another AI tool
- Aims for a 0% Turnitin AI score, proofreading included
- Fresh Turnitin AI report of the edited file as proof
- Delivered within 12 to 24 hours
Questions? WhatsApp us on +254706770780.