Fulbright Foreign Student (Master’s) Program 2026-27

Program deadline – 11:59 pm (EASTERN TIME) April 30, 2025

Plagiarism

Plagiarism Policy: Study Objective and Personal Statement Guidelines

ESSAY WORD LIMIT: Maximum of 2 pages or 1,500 words

Plagiarism is a serious offense and a common reason for the disqualification of Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FFSP) applicants. Before submitting your application, it is crucial to understand the following information about plagiarism and how to avoid it.

What is Plagiarism?

Plagiarism involves using someone else’s words, ideas, or work and presenting them as your own. This can occur in various forms, such as:

  • Directly copying text without proper attribution
  • Using data, theories, or concepts without giving credit to the original source

Plagiarism is considered a severe academic and professional offense, especially in U.S. educational institutions, where it can lead to serious consequences, including expulsion, loss of scholarships, and irreparable damage to your reputation.

How to Avoid Plagiarism

Avoiding plagiarism is simple if you follow these guidelines:

  • Cite Sources Correctly: Always credit the original author when using their words, ideas, or data.
  • Use Quotation Marks: If you use exact words from a source, place them in quotation marks and include a proper citation.
  • Paraphrase Properly: If you summarize or rephrase someone else’s ideas, you do not need quotation marks, but you must still provide a citation.
Citation Styles

Two commonly used citation styles are:

Helpful Resources

To understand plagiarism better and learn how to avoid it, consult these reliable resources:

Important Note on AI Use

Individual U.S. universities may have specific guidelines regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in essays and applications. Applicants should familiarize themselves with these policies to ensure compliance and maintain academic integrity. Always prioritize original work and cite AI-generated content if applicable.