Turnitin Not Working? Fixes for Upload and Report Errors
Independent guide. Not affiliated with Turnitin, LLC. Read the Turnitin disclaimer.
When Turnitin "isn't working", the cause is usually one of five things. Work through them in order.
1. Check whether Turnitin is down
Look at Turnitin's official status page. If there's an incident, wait and tell your instructor.
2. Fix the file
- Re-save as DOCX, or as a PDF with real text (not a scan).
- Remove passwords and macros.
- Check size (under 100 MB) and length. See Turnitin file types.
3. Fix the browser or platform
- Try another browser or a private window; clear cache and cookies.
- Allow third-party cookies for your LMS if Turnitin opens in a frame.
- Make sure you're in the correct assignment and before the due date.
4. Wait for processing
Reports can take minutes, or up to a day if the assignment waits until the due date. See how long Turnitin takes and status meanings.
5. Escalate
Instructor first, then IT help desk; they can contact Turnitin. See Turnitin customer service.
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Frequently asked questions
Why won't Turnitin accept my file?
Usually the file type, size, password protection or too few words. Re-save as DOCX or a text-based PDF.
Is Turnitin down?
Check Turnitin's official status page. If it's up, the problem is usually the file or your learning platform.
What if the deadline is close?
Tell your instructor straight away with a screenshot of the error and the time.
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- Ready usually within 30 minutes
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