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How Much Does Dissertation Proofreading Cost in 2024?

For graduate students who have already had their dissertation edited, proofreading is the final step in reviewing the manuscript for typos, misspelled words, and other minor issues. Dissertation proofreading costs can vary greatly depending on where you purchase such services. Graduate students often find and purchase dissertation proofreading services after conducting an online search, but local colleges and universities may also have freelance proofreaders to contact directly for proofreading services. In some cases, these services are more affordable, but getting references from other graduate students is a must. Dissertation proofreading services may charge a standard price for reviewing a dissertation, while others may charge based on the number of hours it takes to complete the proofreading or based on the word count.

Cost of Dissertation Proofreading in 2024

At some companies, dissertation proofreading services cost less per word or per page when you submit projects with a higher word count. This means that if you are submitting your dissertation for proofreading one chapter at a time you may pay higher prices than if you were to submit the complete dissertation for proofreading at one time. Some dissertation proofreading services may also charge a higher price for proofreading dissertations that are more scientific or technical. The price for  proofreading  a dissertation is lower than the price for  editing a dissertation because proofreading focuses on the last minor issues in the document. Dissertation proofreading prices can increase if your deadline is very soon. A deadline that gives the proofreader very little time to review the manuscript will often require an extra fee or a higher rate for dissertation proofreading.

Paying for dissertation proofreading services will help you remove the final remaining errors in the manuscript. This helps you create a final dissertation that is as professionally presented as possible. If your dissertation is in a Microsoft Word document, the dissertation proofreader will read through your dissertation and make corrections using Track Changes. There may be missing punctuation, inconsistent capitalization for certain words, extra spaces, or other minor errors. A professional proofreader has experiencing spotting and correcting these errors.

Hire a PhD Dissertation Proofreader

Editor World’s cost for dissertation proofreading services starts at $0.021 per word, making the cost of proofreading a 75,000-word dissertation $1,575 as of January 2024. Some dissertation proofreaders offer a discount of up to 20%, reducing the  dissertation proofreading cost  to $1,260. Editor World’s dissertation proofreading services help you perfect your dissertation before publication, eliminating errors and minor typos that minimize the professionalism of your academic document.

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Cost of proofreading a PhD

Phd thesis proofreading cost: how much does it cost to proofread a phd.

If you are almost finished writing your PhD thesis perhaps you are considering having it looked over by a professional editor?

You are probably wondering how much it costs to proofread a PhD. In this article we address this common question and break down the costs.

Per page or per 1,000 words? That is the question

The first thing to understand is that proofreading companies will charge differently from freelancers.

Freelancers mostly will charge by the hour and need to work this backwards to give you a final quote. This makes it hard to obtain an exact quote beforehand. The freelancer in question will need to assess your thesis, work out their average proofreading/editing speed then see how many hours it will take and multiply this by their price per hour.

We charge per 1,000 words

Thus this is why at London Proofreaders we charge a flat rate per 1,000 words. As an experienced academic editing company that has edited hundreds of PhD theses, we know fairly accurately how long it will take us to proofread a thesis. Flat rate pricing ensures that you can be confident the price will not change. It is just a better method.

Why we don’t charge per page

We found that pages from PhDs can vary greatly in terms of length. Think about it: there are variations in font size, spacing, margins and tables and figures. That means one thesis may have 600 words per page and another 250!

Our PhD thesis proofreading prices

So to get an idea of how much it will cost for us to proofread and edit your thesis take your word count, then multiply this by the rate per word. Not sure how to find your word count? Look in the bottom left hand corner of the document when it is open in Microsoft Word.

Want to get an exact price? Visit our “prices” page .

Find out more about our PhD proofreading service – 7+ years of experience

We have proofread over 500 PhD theses from every field imaginable. Our services combines proofreading at the superficial level and editing at the sentence level. To find out all the details of what our proofreading and editing service checks, who our editors are and how long it takes,wVisit our PhD proofreading page – click here .

Or if you would like to head over to our order page you can do so below and follow the simple steps to order.

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Proofreading Rates | A Guide for Freelance Editors

Published on February 25, 2022 by Jack Caulfield .

One of the hardest parts of freelancing is figuring out the right rates to charge your clients, and this is no different for proofreaders and editors. This article provides useful data and guidance on the process of formulating your rates.

Rates for proofreading vary widely depending on a variety of factors (e.g., experience, difficulty), but rough median rates are indicated in the table below for proofreaders who work independently and those who work with established platforms.

Table of contents

Freelancing with a platform vs. independently, length of the deadline, text type and quality, client expectations, proofreading for scribbr, frequently asked questions about proofreading rates.

Many freelancers like to do everything themselves. But being a freelancer doesn’t have to mean working 100% independently. Many proofreading and editing platforms work with freelancers to provide their services.

Both approaches are valid, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Working with a platform

Proofreading platforms offer freelancers a way to connect with clients directly without handling all the outreach. Working with companies like this gives you stability in the way you approach your work, the editing standards you follow, and how you’re paid.

Working with a platform like this, you may earn a lower hourly rate on average than a fully independent freelancer, since the company takes a cut. But it’s important to recall the hours you don’t bill for when you work independently:

• Finding clients
• Communicating with clients, answering questions
• Invoicing and other administrative tasks

These are the things a platform will usually handle for you, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Factoring these “invisible” hours into the comparison, the discrepancy between independent freelancer rates and those you earn working with a platform is smaller.

Working independently

Working independently, you can usually set a higher rate than you’d get working with a platform. But you will have to find clients and handle communication with them yourself, as well as handling your own admin. These are effectively unpaid hours.

Before fixing your rates, you’ll also have to decide how to formulate them in the first place. Rates are usually given per word , per page , or per hour .

Once you’ve decided how to formulate your rate, you may still want to vary it based on factors that influence the difficulty of the assignment. Some common factors include:

• Type and quality of the text
• Expectations of the client

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Even if you end up spending the same amount of time on the text either way, a shorter deadline puts more pressure on you to get to work straight away. So it’s common for proofreaders and editors to charge higher rates for shorter deadlines.

One approach is to offer a set of fixed deadlines the client can choose between (e.g., one day, three days, seven days). Another is to ask the client when they need the text back by and adjust your rate based on that. The former is more straightforward and consistent.

Of course, you can stick to a single fixed deadline if you don’t want to worry about this, but the lack of flexibility may put off potential clients.

The content of the text itself will also influence the difficulty of your work. In an academic editing context, the following factors might be relevant to consider:

• Academic level (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD): Writing standards tend to be higher for higher levels (although the initial quality of the text may also be higher, owing to the client’s greater writing experience).
• Type of document: Depending on the purpose of the document, you may have to approach it differently. A submission to an academic journal, for example, usually has to follow more stringent style requirements than a paper for a university course.
• Subject matter: If you’re editing papers on a wide range of subjects, it’s worth determining whether a given text is likely to pose unique difficulties (e.g., dealing with statistics or specialist jargon). You can charge different rates for different fields.

The quality of the text is worth weighing in too, since a messy text will take more work than a relatively polished one. If you can ask for a sample of the text before quoting the client, you can assess this directly and adjust your rate accordingly.

Another factor is what exactly the client expects from your work. Managing the client’s expectations is essential; a client who’s looking for substantive editing and assistance with structure won’t be happy if they only receive a spell check.

For this purpose, you can offer a variety of editing services that the client can choose from, or you can discuss the client’s needs specifically before taking on the assignment and adjust the rate as necessary.

Of course, this kind of discussion can be time-consuming in itself. It’s also a valid approach to simply offer a single, inflexible service. Just be up front about what you do and don’t offer, and let the client decide whether you’re the right choice for them.

One way to retain that freedom while reducing the uncertainty is to work with a proofreading organization like Scribbr. You stay freelance and can take on as much or as little work as you like. Scribbr handles all the tricky aspects of freelance proofreading for you:

• Getting their documents to you and then back to them
• Assisting you with any tax questions
• Providing customer support in case any issues arise
• Training you to edit efficiently

Scribbr determines per-word rates for you according to the deadline and the additional services requested (Clarity Check and/or Structure Check). If that sounds good to you, click the button below to find out more!

Becoming a Scribbr editor

Proofreading rates can be calculated in several different ways. You can set your rate:

A per-word rate is generally the most precise, since it closely reflects the amount of work you’ll have to do. But it can be confusing for clients to parse at a glance; one solution is to quote per 1,000 words so the numbers involved are clearer.

There are many different routes to becoming a professional proofreader or editor. The necessary qualifications depend on the field – to be an academic or scientific proofreader, for example, you will need at least a university degree in a relevant subject.

For most proofreading jobs, experience and demonstrated skills are more important than specific qualifications. Often your skills will be tested as part of the application process.

To learn practical proofreading skills, you can choose to take a course with a professional organization such as the Society for Editors and Proofreaders . Alternatively, you can apply to companies that offer specialized on-the-job training programmes, such as the Scribbr Academy .

On average, you can expect to earn approximately €20 to €30 per hour as a Scribbr editor .

The earnings are calculated based on fixed per-word rates that we have set for different kinds of assignments. We will communicate these rates to you as soon as you are in your Scribbr Academy .

The per-word rate for each order is determined by:

• The editing deadline (the shorter the deadline, the higher the rate); and
• The services purchased (whether a Structure or Clarity Check is booked on top of standard proofreading and editing ).

In our Scribbr Academy , we train you to edit as efficiently as possible—which will help you to increase the speed at which you work. For example, we include a Scribbr Word macro that you can use to easily utilize standardized in-text comments.

You must apply through our website and complete all the steps in the Scribbr editor application process.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2022, February 25). Proofreading Rates | A Guide for Freelance Editors. Scribbr. Retrieved July 5, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/tips/proofreading-rates/

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Dissertation Proofreading Service: Perfect Your Work Fast, Affordable, Professional

Your supervisor has finally given the green light, and now it's time for the ultimate stage of refinement: dissertation proofreading and formatting, all in accordance with your institution's exact requirements. This critical step in the process ensures that your academic masterpiece, whether it's a thesis or dissertation, reaches its pinnacle of perfection.

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• Dissertation Proofreading Service: Perfect Your Work

Dissertation Proofreading: Perfect Your Final Draft Before Submitting

You're nearing the finish line of your academic journey, with your dissertation or thesis in hand. As the culmination of your hard work, it's essential to present a polished and error-free document that will make a lasting impression. Our Dissertation Proofreading and Dissertation Editing services are here to help you achieve perfection. 

As you embark on this phase, enlist the invaluable assistance of a dissertation editing and proofreading service staffed by experienced document editors who specialize in academic writing. Our professional editors are well-versed in the intricacies of academic work, and their expertise lies not only in correcting errors but also in enhancing the overall quality of your document.

The thesis proofreading services they provide extend to various aspects of your work, from ensuring clarity and coherence in your arguments to refining the flow of your writing. Their attention to detail is unparalleled, guaranteeing that your thesis or dissertation is free from any pesky grammatical and stylistic imperfections that might detract from the academic excellence you've worked so diligently to achieve.

Why Should I Choose Dissertation Proofreading by Scribendi?

Our expert editors specialize in dissertation proofreading, ensuring that your academic work shines with clarity and precision . The core of their work includes meticulous spelling and punctuation review by a native English speaker who employs tracked changes to keep you informed of every modification made. 

Furthermore, these masters of academic proofreading will help you maintain word count precision while ensuring that your document adheres to the stringent formatting guidelines of your institution. Here's how you benefit:

• Professional dissertation proofreading: We offer top-tier dissertation proofreading that addresses grammar, spelling, punctuation, and word choice errors. 
• Formatting excellence: Let our experts handle the laborious task of formatting your citations and references to meet the specific requirements of your chosen style guide.
• Academic expertise: Our editors have extensive experience across various academic fields, including master's dissertations and thesis proofreading. They've been where you are and know what it takes to succeed.
• Tracked changes: Our editing and proofreading service includes tracked revisions, allowing you to review all changes made to your document.
• Critical feedback: We provide insightful commentary on any remaining issues or concerns in your paper, helping you improve its overall quality.

Remember, a polished and error-free document can make all the difference in your academic journey. So, when it's time for dissertation proofreading and editing services, rely on professionals who understand the importance of this critical phase in your academic work and who are dedicated to elevating your research to its highest potential .

Can I get a discount on Dissertation Proofreading services?

Enhancing your academic work has never been more affordable with our exclusive student discount for Dissertation Proofreading services.

Our team of expert editors is ready to take your thesis to the next level. Whether you're a PhD student or pursuing a master's degree, we understand the importance of a well-crafted dissertation. With our 10% student discount , you can enjoy substantial savings while receiving top-notch proofreading services for your dissertation. 

Our experienced dissertation proofreaders are well-versed in academic writing and can help you refine your work, focusing on aspects like style, English proficiency, and adherence to university guidelines. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer to improve the quality of your thesis while saving on Dissertation Proofreading services.

Simply use the coupon code on our Student Discount page to start improving your writing today. Our proofreading service for dissertations is dedicated to helping students like you succeed in their academic journey.

Take advantage of this opportunity to elevate your thesis or dissertation to its highest potential with our discounted Dissertation Proofreading services.

What will you receive with the Dissertation Proofreading service? 

• A revised document in which misspellings, grammar errors, and typos have been corrected
• Changes and suggestions to help improve clarity, flow, structure, and readability
• Formatting of your citations and references to the style guide of your choice, if desired
• Tracked revisions so that you can see and review all the changes that have been made
• Critical commentary on any remaining issues or concerns in your paper 
• A short summary of the work that has been done and any major concerns

What types of documents can you use the Dissertation Proofreading service for?

• Dissertations
• Thesis and dissertation proposals

Note: Proofreading is for final drafts of documents that have already been edited at least once. If you would like help with word choice, sentence structure, and the overall organization and clarity of the content and writing, our Dissertation Editing or Structural Editing services can provide everything you need and more!

Generative AI has become increasingly relevant in academia and can impact academic services at Scribendi; click here to see Scribendi’s policy on generative AI .

Your work's confidentiality and your personal information's security are paramount to us. Our platform ensures safe and encrypted uploads and downloads. We accept a wide range of file formats to accommodate your needs. 

Getting started is simple. Receive an instant quote below and place your order today to perfect your dissertation and make a lasting impression on your supervisor and faculty.

  Get an Instant Quote and Place Your Order

Dissertation Proofreading Services FAQ

What is dissertation proofreading.

Dissertation proofreading is a crucial phase in the academic journey of every scholar, whether you're working on a dissertation or thesis. This meticulous process involves a comprehensive review and editing of your scholarly work to ensure that it adheres to the highest academic standards. In essence, it's the final touch that can make a world of difference in the quality and impact of your research.

Why does my dissertation need proofreading?

Dissertation proofreading guarantees its clarity, coherence, and professionalism. Like other types of editing and proofreading services (e.g., Personal Statement Editing ), it ensures your work is free from errors, enhancing its credibility and the impact of your research. 

In essence, your dissertation is not only a testament to your academic prowess but also a foundational document that may shape your future research opportunities and career prospects. Ensuring that it meets the highest academic standards through meticulous dissertation proofreading is an investment in your success, providing a document that is free from errors and fully ready to make a significant impact in your academic and professional journey. 

How do I make sure my dissertation is proofread efficiently?

Efficient dissertation proofreading involves a systematic review for grammar, spelling, formatting, and content. It's often best to hire a professional editor with expertise in academic writing to ensure a thorough and error-free review.

Efficient dissertation proofreading also requires careful planning, the use of professional services, native English-speaking editors, a collaborative approach using tracked changes, attention to word count guidelines, a thorough review of spelling and punctuation, and a deep focus on the overall quality and consistency of your academic writing. 

What are the advantages of hiring an editor to proofread your dissertation?

Hiring an editor for dissertation proofreading brings numerous benefits, including polished writing, improved clarity, adherence to academic standards, and confidence in the quality of your research. It not only ensures error-free content but also enhances the overall quality, professionalism, and impact of your work. With the guidance of expert editors, your dissertation becomes a powerful representation of your research, positioning you for success in the academic world.

Submit a fluent and error free thesis

Worried about the quality of your writing need some expert help, we’re the world’s most popular phd-dedicated proofreaders, and we’ll make your writing shine., proofreading by phd specialists, ethical and transparent, trusted by over 6,000 students, safe, secure and 100% confidential, free sample - try before you buy, we’re professional in everything we do.

You’re the expert in your field.

We’re the experts in proofreading.  .

Are you a non-native English speaker or do you struggle to write fluently? Are you worried about the quality of the writing in your PhD? 

That’s a problem, because a thesis with language and fluency issues will get sent back for costly and time consuming corrections.

We can help. We’re a member of the  Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading  (CIEP) and are bound by their Code of Practice . That means you can be assured of the highest levels of quality and professionalism in everything we do.

Because we offer the world’s most popular and comprehensive PhD writing check-up, your thesis couldn’t be in safer hands. It’s our job to correct your writing and make sure your thesis reads like a native speaker wrote it. With our help, you can submit with confidence and be one step closer to calling yourself ‘Doctor’.

If you need us to we can also check your references and bibliography, format your thesis, and comment on the overall readability and structure, for no extra cost to you.

We’ve helped over 6,000 students graduate, so no one is better qualified to make your writing shine.

“The PhD Proofreaders exceeded my expectations. The end result was a dissertation which was not only written in proper English but had much clearer content as well.”

Andrew – university of sydney., read more reviews ., the world’s most comprehensive phd writing check-up. .

Did you know it takes 40 hours to proofread an 80,000 word thesis? Or that your proofreader has to watch out for up to 100 common language, fluency and grammar problems?

You’ll certainly notice the difference when you open your thesis and you can’t believe your eyes.

You’ll notice it when long, hard-to-read paragraphs now flow seamlessly and that your ideas are presented with flawless, fluent writing.

When you get your proofread thesis back, you’ll think to yourself, “It reads like a native speaker wrote it”.

Our experienced proofreaders will comb your writing line-by-line. They check for anything that gets in the way of you presenting your research clearly and fluently. They can also format your thesis and comment on its structure and readability. 

So whether it’s grammar, syntax, repetition or spelling you struggle with, let us find the language flaws and correct them for you.

You’ll be one step closer to calling yourself Doctor

Proofreading specifically for PhD students

We check for and correct mistakes with grammar, spelling, word use, repetition and tone. We spend 40 hours combing line-by-line through an 80,000 word thesis, so you know that no mistakes will be left. Even your examiner won’t read your thesis that carefully.

We do everything we’re allowed to as proofreaders while preserving your integrity. We never disrupt or alter your ideas. Instead, we take what you’ve written and make it shine.

We understand deadlines

You’re up against tight deadlines and you feel under pressure to submit. That’s why we work quickly and efficiently when proofreading your thesis.

We typically take two working days for a 10,000 word chapter or seven for an entire 80,000 words thesis. We can work more quickly though if you need us to – just let us know (additional fees may apply).

Our turnaround times are guaranteed and we’ll clearly communicate them with when you order. We’ll never cause you to miss a deadline.

60 disciplines, 100 countries, 6,000 satisfied students

Our proofreaders are experienced in a wide range of academic areas. Our service is designed specifically for:

• Non-native speakers of English
• Native speakers looking for extra writing support
• Those with learning difficulties
• Those at every stage of the PhD
• Students in every discipline
• Those writing in US, UK or Australian English
• Students from across the globe

Tailored to your requirements

You need to know that the person proofreading your PhD can understand the technical terms of your discipline.

That’s why we assign it to an accredited proofreader with expertise in your discipline. All our proofreaders have at least a master’s degree, with most having PhDs themselves. In either case, they speak your language.

Because we only proofread PhDs, we know the process inside out. We know exactly what’s required and what standard you should be writing at. You can be sure we’ll treat your thesis with the respect it deserves and catch every writing mistake.

Safe, secure and 100% confidential.

You need to be 100% sure that you can trust the people working on your thesis. That’s why we treat your thesis safely, securely and confidentially. We treat it as if it were our own.

We have a robust Privacy Policy and we will gladly sign a non-disclosure agreement to give you complete peace of mind. We’re also bound by the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading’s Code of Practice,  so you can be sure of a professional, thorough service.

We will also work on a 500-word free sample, so you can assess the quality of our work, and we offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you aren’t happy with the finished product.

Free Optional Add-Ons To Elevate Your Writing…

Every phd is different, which is why we offer a range of add-on services alongside our core proofreading at no extra cost to you. you’ll be able to select which you need when you submit an inquiry below.  , reference checking & formatting.

If you need us to, we’ll format your in-text references and bibliography in line with any major style guide. We’ll also double check that your bibliography is complete, so you can be sure that all the references you mention in the text are accounted for, and vice versa. 

Thesis &Chapter Formatting

If the thought of formatting your thesis prior to submission fills you with dread, we can help. Following your university’s submission guidelines, we’ll make sure the entire thesis is formatted correctly. This includes fonts, margins, spacings, headings and so on. 

Readability & Structure Check

If you want a second opinion on the clarity of your argument and quality of your writing, we’ll help. If you want, our editors can provide feedback and advice on the overall readability and structure of the text and, where relevant, suggest areas for improvement. 

What other students say

Finishing a PhD is a difficult and nerve-racking endeavour   the final phases especially can be quite stressful. As I had re-read some of the chapters in my thesis over and over again, I felt that I could not really ‘see’ the words anymore, so I decided to look for a proofreader. I’m a perfectionist, so I figured that I’d save myself a lot of nerves by having someone look over it critically. While I’m not a native English-speaker, I’m a very confident writer, so I did not need any help with the language. Instead, I was looking for someone who could help spot typos as well as repetitions and general inconsistencies. I contacted a range of different proofreading services. The PhD Proofreaders stood out to me from the start. It felt very personal, and Max really took the time to listen to all of my enquiries. In addition to his expertise, he can empathise with the stress of handling the final stages of writing. Turnaround time was very quick, and the proofreading was generally quite thorough. The entire process was very smooth; we agreed on a timetable and he even managed to send comments back before the deadline we had agreed upon. Even after sending me his comments, he checked in regularly to see if I needed help with anything in the final weeks before submission. He is encouraging, always goes the extra mile, and super easy to communicate with; I was always able to get a hold of him when I needed something. All in all, it was well worth the money and I highly recommend his services!

PhD Researcher , University of Cambridge

“Without this personalised assistance, there is no way I would have felt comfortable paying a proofreader. The PhD Proofreaders couldn’t have done a better job. It was such a relief. The thesis they sent back read so beautifully and I was awarded no corrections.”

“You and your excellent professional skills can always cheer me up and bring me more confidence at the last stage of this long matharon.”

“Without The PhD Proofreaders, there is no chance I would have submitted my thesis on time. I wouldn’t have passed first time, either. My thesis was let down by poor English, so the money I spent was worth every penny. It was a great investment.”

“Your solidarity with developing countries’ PhD students who would never be able to afford other similar services, makes you standout not only high quality proofreading services provider but also an understanding and personal service supplier. This unique approach puts you at the helm of the pack.”

“After talking to Elizabeth [a PhD coach], I didn’t wake up in the middle of the night last night for the first time in months! Ahh to have this feeling over my destiny again is very nice”.  – Rachel, France.

Frequently asked questions...

What's included.

When we’re finished, your thesis will read like a native speaker wrote it. Included as standard:

1. Checking and correcting misspelling and incorrect punctuation.

2. Checking grammar and syntax. This can include rewording parts of a sentence or a whole sentence in order to clarify your English, which can be in US, UK or Australian spellings.

3. Leaving comments for you where the meaning of the text is unclear or confusing in order to help readability.

4. Identifying the incorrect use of words and suggesting alternatives or the need for you to investigate alternatives.

5. Ensuring consistency in terms of spelling,  punctuation, capitalisation and other aspects of style.

We always use track changes, so you can see every change that was made. Plus, we never guess your meaning – if anything isn’t clear we’ll ask for further clarification.

What isn't included?

There are strict rules governing what we are allowed to do. That means we can’t:

1. Write or create content for you. This includes things like table of contents, abstracts or bibliographies. 

2. Alter the structure of your text beyond what would be expected in the proofreading process (i.e. we can improve language fluency, but we can’t restructure chapters). 

3. Feedback on the structure, content, or argumentation, unless you specifically request us to. 

4. Make stylistic changes to make the work more ‘academic’ or ‘professional’.

5. Format the text, tables, reference list, or in-text citations, unless you specifically request us to.  

Who will proofread my work?

Your work will be proofread by two accredited proofreaders with subject-specialism. We always assign the most qualified proofreader, so nothing gets misunderstood.

We always use contractors, meaning we have the pick of some of the world’s best proofreaders (and we know where to find them).

How can I trust you?

We are a member of the Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders and are bound by their Code of Practice . That governs the quality of our work and the way we interact with you, and shows our commitment to professionalism. 

We also offer a money back guarantee. That’s how confident we are in the quality of our work.

We also follow the rules laid out by your university or, where these aren’t available, the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading Code of Practice.

We also offer a free, no-obligation sample so you can see for yourself the quality our work.

We always treat your work securely and confidentially. We have a strict Privacy Policy  governing how we manage your thesis and data, and will gladly sign a non-disclosure agreement, to give you complete peace of mind.

Avoid months of unnecessary corrections with a thesis that's right first time

When you first started your PhD you were fired by ambition and excited by the possibilities of your field.

Then reality struck. Writing 80,000 words of clear, error-free prose on a highly specialised subject is no easy task. If writing is not your forte, or English is not your first language, the challenge becomes even more daunting.

At The PhD Proofreaders, we understand the position you’re in.

Our mission is to make your life easier and less stressful than ours was when we were doing our PhDs. We saw people failing or facing months of corrections because of poor-quality written work, despite being experts in their field.

We’ve seen over and over again the value of a writing check-up. Language mistakes undermine all the hard work, time and money you’ve put into your thesis. They can harm your credibility and delay your graduation. Our writing check-up is a small price to pay to make sure your thesis is right first time.

PhD proofreading can transform the quality of your written work and allow you to submit a more competent thesis more quickly. 

Doctor. Sooner.

That’s what it’s all about.

We keep our prices as low as possible, so we can help as many people as possible. You’re guaranteed the very highest quality work, or we’ll refund you in full ( terms and conditions apply). We accept all major credit or debit cards, WeChat, Alipay, Klarna, or direct bank transfers.

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If you need your work back more quickly, let us know when you make an inquiry. We can meet even the tightest deadlines (additional fees may apply).

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Whether you’re writing a thesis, research paper, or PhD proposal, Proofed’s academic proofreading and editing services will help ensure your writing reads smoothly and your ideas are communicated effectively.

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Need editing and proofreading services, thesis proofreading | definition, importance & standard pricing.

• Tags: Thesis , thesis proofreading

You’ve poured your blood, sweat, and tears into writing your thesis and it is finally complete. But don’t celebrate just yet! When it comes to a thesis, editing and proofreading it is almost as important as drafting it. You can either perform thesis proofreading by yourself or consult a professional. 

The smallest of errors can create a poor impression of your thesis and distract the reader from its content. Whether it’s proofreading on your own or consulting a proofreading firm, it is key to making all your hard work shine. 

But first, let’s start by understanding what thesis proofreading actually is.

What is thesis proofreading?

Proofreading refers to identifying and correcting mechanical errors such as spelling, grammar, syntax, and punctuation errors in a finished document. Here, a finished document refers to a thesis that has been drafted, revised and significantly edited apart from the final step of proofreading. 

Proofreading a thesis, which can be 70,000–100,000 words long, can pose a significant challenge. Thorough thesis proofreading cannot be performed at the last moment; it requires several weeks. PhD thesis proofreading may require even more time as compared to master’s thesis proofreading.

Proofreading not only requires a significant amount of time but also all your attention. It involves taking into account and correcting the most minor of errors. Combing through a 70,000-word document, looking for any hindrances to readability can get taxing for the best of us! 

If permitted by your university guidelines, you can consider consulting a professional to proofread your thesis. Experienced proofreaders work quickly and efficiently, and refine the overall quality and readability of your thesis. 

They make your job significantly easier by eliminating most, if not all errors in your thesis. Let’s better understand what a proofreader’s job entails and how they can help you. 

What does a thesis proofreader do?

A thesis proofreader significantly improves the readability and flow of your thesis by correcting any errors in spelling, grammar, syntax, and punctuation. They are also well-versed in several formatting and style guides and correct any inconsistencies in formatting or referencing styles. 

When it comes to proofreading a thesis specifically, the proofreader performs the following tasks:

• Identifying and correcting inconsistencies in headings, font size, and style
• Correcting errors and inconsistencies in referencing styles
• Identifying errors and inconsistencies in formatting as per university guidelines
• Correcting awkward phrasing
• Correcting errors and inconsistencies in capitalization
• Ensuring proper formatting and labeling of graphs, tables, and figures
• Identifying and correcting errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax

While choosing a thesis proofreader best suited for your needs, select one who has prior knowledge of your subject. This knowledge makes them familiar with your thesis topic, which results in quick, efficient and impactful work. Let’s look at a few more benefits of consulting a professional. 

Why consult a professional thesis proofreader?

A professional proofreader has a trained eye that can spot any mistake or inconsistency  in the lengthiest of manuscripts. Proofreading a document of 70,000–100,000 words is not an easy feat to achieve. It involves combing through each sentence and detecting seemingly insignificant errors, so it’s best to consult a professional in this regard. 

Professional proofreaders have the necessary training, skills, and experience to improve the structure, flow, and overall quality of your thesis. Proofreaders who have background knowledge of your chosen field of interest can also ensure the correct use of technical terms. 

Proofreaders are also familiar with multiple style guides such as MLA format , APA format , and Chicago Style . They can can correct any errors or inconsistencies in these referencing styles. 

If you are thinking of consulting a professional, we have also provided key information on the pricing system for thesis proofreading. Let’s take a look. 

How much does proofreading a thesis cost?

On average the cost of proofreading a thesis is $0.017–$0.020 per word, or $17–$20 per 1,000 words. However, these thesis proofreading rates vary as per the turnaround time, length, and complexity of your thesis.  

The level of proofreading conducted also varies from one document to the other. The cost of proofreading a document with no major errors will be significantly lower than that with many errors. 

Professional proofreaders also use different metrics to charge clients. Some charge per word, some per page, whereas others per hour. Pick a metric that works the best for you. In spite of all these variations, we have collected the average proofreading costs for these prominent thesis proofreading services.  

This table will give you the rough estimate of the price required for professional proofreading and will help you form your own budget. We hope that this information helps you find a professional best suited your requirements.

All the best in your thesis editing journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

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• How much does it cost to proofread my PhD thesis?

This is a very fair question to ask, and I completely understand why, as a potential customer, you would like to get this answered before you send me your thesis. I mean, maybe you haven't finished writing it yet and are trying to line up a proofreader for when you do and you want to find someone that is good value for money and get them booked in early.

So, how much is it going to cost? A ball-park figure? It is a perfectly fair question, so let's have a look at how I calculate what to charge for a particular project.

Looking back at the infographic I made for my last blog , you can see that if the author is writing in a second language – or even if they are native – then from time to time I may not be able to tell what the author is trying to say.

In these cases, we enter an iterative cycle of querying between proofreader and author, amending the document each time. This takes time, and for a freelancer, time is money.

In the cases where I think I can work out what the author is trying to say, I re-write a sentence and make a comment to flag that I have re-written a sentence or paragraph so that the author can check that I haven't changed the originally intended meaning. This takes time, and time is money.

Generally speaking, the more instances of uncertainty of the meaning of the original document, the more time it will take to proofread and the higher the charge will be per 1,000 words.

Conversely, if the thesis or article is excellently written and only needs a light-touch proofread, then the charge will be low on a per 1,000-word basis.

OK, so the cost varies according to the quality of the language in the original, I guess that is not revolutionary, but how much is the cost?

Well, I aim for an hourly wage in line with the Society for Editors and Proofreaders' (SfEP) suggested minimum rates of pay . They suggest a higher hourly wage for editing than for proofreading; this is not something that I agree with, as I personally find it easier to re-write something than to make slight amendments to something that is already excellent so I aim for the same hourly rate, regardless of the quality of the original work.

I don't like to penalise authors who are writing in a second language – I have massive respect for people who can achieve this, and if anything, I particularly enjoy working with non-native authors as I can more clearly see the value of my input and get more satisfaction by clarifying meaning and helping the author to get the best from their work.

Back to the money!

The following equation is how I calculate the price to charge on a per 1,000-word basis:

To do this, I need to see a sample because I need to know roughly how long it will take me to complete a typical 1,000-word section of the document. Once I know this, I set a charge per 1,000 words that approaches the minimum rate of pay recommended by the SfEP.

Now that the process is defined, what do the numbers come out at? Well, it is somewhere between £5 and £25 per 1,000 words, typically.

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If you would prefer to discuss requirements, please don't hesitate to give me a call on the number below.

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Copy-editing is for those clients who are hoping to improve the overall style and concision of their writing, making a guaranteed impression with academic journals.

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“I was extremely impressed and happy with the outstanding proof-reading service at Lex Academic. The editing I received was excellent, meticulous, and delivered in a very timely manner. Lex Academic offered well thought out interventions, grammar adjustments and overall made my Master’s thesis more concise and professional. It has been a pleasure to work with Louise and I would strongly recommend Lex Academic to all my colleagues, and I look forward to working with them in the future!”

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How Much Does Proofreading a PhD Thesis Cost

The cost of proofreading a PhD thesis can vary depending on several factors, including the length of the document, the level of editing required, and the turnaround time.

Proofreading a PhD Thesis Prices

In general, the cost of proofreading a PhD thesis can range from a few hundred Pounds to several thousand Pounds. Many professional proofreading services charge by the word, with rates ranging from £0.01 to £0.04 per word. For a typical PhD thesis of 80,000-100,000 words, this could translate to a cost of £800-£4,000.

However, it is important to note that the cost of proofreading can vary depending on the level of editing required. Proofreading involves correcting errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting. If the document requires more extensive editing, such as restructuring sentences or improving the flow of the writing, the cost may be higher.

The Turnaround Time

The turnaround time for proofreading can also affect the cost. If you need the document proofread quickly, the cost may be higher than if you can wait for a longer turnaround time.

It is important to choose a reputable proofreading service that employs experienced and qualified proofreaders. Some proofreading services may offer lower rates, but may not provide the same level of quality and attention to detail as more reputable proofreading services.

In addition to professional proofreading services, some universities and academic departments may offer proofreading services to their students for a reduced cost or for free. It is worth checking with your university or department to see if such services are available. However, this may not be as detailed as using a professional company.

Overall, the cost of proofreading a PhD thesis can be a significant expense, but it is an important investment in ensuring the quality and clarity of your PhD thesis. It is important to consider the level of editing required, the turnaround time, and the reputation and qualifications of the proofreading service when determining the cost.

Our Proofreading Prices

At Express Proofreading we receive many enquires and orders from students and academics wishing to have their PhD thesis proofread. Our prices for our proofreading and editing service are amongst the most competitive on the market and start from £11 per 1,000 words. However, for documents greater than 50,000 words we are able to offer a discount and reduce this price to £10 per 1,000 words , we believe this to be amongst the most competitive prices for such a service.

Instant Quote for our PhD Proofreading

Placing an order with us is easy, simply click the Instant Quote button. Upload your PhD, then our Quote Generator will calculate an individual quote for you, based upon the word count of your document. Once you are happy with your proofreading quote, you can then click Place Order and proceed to our secure checkout page

If you wish to find out more information about our academic proofreading services , please visit the academic proofreading page. Alternatively, feel free to contact us and our team will be more than happy to help with any questions.

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Trusted PhD proofreading delivered by world-class, qualified academic editors.

You've done the hard work. Now let our professional academics proofread your PhD thesis to a precise standard and ensure you achieve the best possible results.

A PhD editing service for those who won’t settle for anything less than perfection.

Finishing your PhD thesis to the standard it deserves is paramount to you qualifying successfully. After years of writing, it may be understandably difficult for you to see the wood for the trees. That's where we come in.

• We can work on one or multiple chapters of your thesis, depending on your progress
• We guarantee to provide you with an editor who specialises in your subject or field of study
• Our editors won't just correct the small errors; they'll help ensure your thesis comes together as one cohesive document
• Tight deadlines and fast turnaround times catered to
• We can work with any type of specialised formatting, statistics or subject matter

Our PhD proofreading service has been trusted by students since 2007.

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Proofreading

A thorough editing service removing all errors and correcting superficial inconsistencies.

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Stylistic Edit

A more comprehensive edit, particularly ideal if English is not your first language.

• Plus the following:
• Sentence construction
• Terminology/reference checks
• Logic, relevance & clarity
• Structure & style
• Improvements to formality of language
• Clarification of arguments in writing

Frequently Asked Questions aboout our PhD Editing Service

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How much does proofreading cost?

If you’ve decided to hire a freelance proofreader to proofread your PhD thesis or research paper, you may be wondering if you can afford the cost of proofreading services. So, how much does proofreading cost?

English proofreading rates

The cost of proofreading services varies from one service provider to the next. But comparing proofreading rates isn’t always easy. Although many proofreading agencies and freelance proofreaders publish their rates online, some companies charge other fees (such as a project fee or taxes) or have a minimum order size.

To be able to compare apple to apples, ask for proofreading quotes from the freelance proofreaders or companies you’re considering.

To know what to expect, here are the 2024 proofreading rates reported by two professional associations and several companies. All prices are shown in euros, for easy comparison. I used Xe.com for currency conversion.

• CIEP , the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading, recommends a minimum hourly rate of €35 as of March 2024. This minimum rate for proofreading is equivalent to about €0.02 per word for a proofreading pace of about 2000 words per hour.
• The Editorial Freelancers Association reports an average hourly rate of €36–€41 for proofreading nonfiction documents or business copy. The rates refer to 2020 and should be updated soon. Based on those rates, the median rate for proofreading nonfiction documents would be about €0.02, per word.

And here is what some companies offering proofreading services to researchers charge for proofreading a 9000-word manuscript:

• ProofreadingServices.com: €248 (one-week delivery)
• Proofed: €248
• Papertrue: €194–€297
• Quality Proofreading: from €144
• Proof-Reading-Service.com: €126
• Cambridge Proofreading: €206 (one-week delivery)

Freelance proofreaders may charge different rates— higher or lower—than companies that offer proofreading services.

Things to know before comparing proofreading rates

Many agencies charge more for English proofreading than independent proofreaders do, because agencies need to split their fee with the freelancer who actually proofreads on the manuscript.

Some agencies (ServiceScape, for example) charge a commission as high as 50%, much higher than that of freelancing platforms (20% in general). This means that if you pay €300 for English proofreading through a third party, only €150–€240 will go to the freelance proofreader. Keep this in mind when you’re comparing the proofreading quotes from different service providers.

Another thing you may want to know is that some vendors outsource their proofreading services to other companies, which work with freelance proofreaders. And, in turn, some freelance proofreaders outsource their proofreading projects to other people.

This doesn’t mean the freelance proofreader who works for you through an agency won’t do a great job. It only means that all the parties involved (agency, freelancers, and so on) will split the fee you’ll pay for proofreading services.

Factors that determine how much proofreading costs

When preparing a quote for proofreading , both companies and freelance proofreaders consider the following:

• number of pages or word count,
• what’s included in the service, and
• turnaround time.

The subject matter, document format, and proofreader’s experience will also affect the quote you’ll get for English proofreading.

Document length

In general, proofreading quotes increase with the number of words. But proofreading rates per word tend to be cheaper for long documents than for short ones. For example, a proofreader may charge 2 cents per word to proofread a PhD thesis but 5 cents per word to proofread a business letter.

Services included

Proofreading means different things to different people. When you compare proofreading rates, check the service description to make sure you’re not comparing apples to oranges.

Turnaround time

The typical turnaround time for proofreading a PhD thesis or a research paper is a few days to a week. If you’re in a hurry and the proofreader offers express delivery, you may need to pay a “rush fee” or a more expensive rate per word. Not all freelance proofreaders charge a rush fee. (I’m one of them.)

In short, how much does proofreading cost?

In general, the cost for proofreading academic documents starts at around 2 euro cents per word. The most expensive rate I’ve seen advertised for this service is 7 cents per word and up (by a company in the United States). Academic proofreading rates depend on document type and size, delivery time, and proofreading company.

Do you need a freelance proofreader for a research paper or PhD thesis in economics or natural sciences? Send me a message at [email protected].

Related posts:

How much does English language editing cost?

• Editing or proofreading: Which one is essential if you can’t afford both?
• What free proofreading tool do I recommend?

Last revised on 15 March 2024

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How Much Do Proofreading Services Cost in 2024? Per Word and Hourly Rates With Charts

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We have helped 10,000s of undergraduate, Masters and PhD students to maximise their grades in essays, dissertations, model-exam answers, applications and other materials. If you would like a free chat about your project with one of our UK staff, then please just reach out on one of the methods below.

In 2024, as the demand for high-quality written content rises, professional proofreading services are becoming increasingly essential. Whether for academic papers, books, business documents, or digital content, the role of a proofreader is crucial in ensuring clarity, coherence, and correctness. This article thoroughly explores the cost of proofreading services, examining both per-word and hourly rates, and provides insight into the cost of proofreading services in the current market.

Understanding Proofreading Costs

Proofreading rates can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of the text, the level of expertise required, and the turnaround time. Generally, proofreading services are charged per word and hour.

Proofreading Rates Per Word

Proofreading rates per word are commonly used for pricing in the proofreading industry. This model provides a clear and straightforward way for clients to estimate the cost based on the length of their document. In 2024, average proofreading rates per word range from £0.018 to £0.035. This rate can vary depending on the technicality of the content; specialised content, such as medical or legal documents, may attract a higher rate due to the additional expertise required.

Proofreading Rate Per Hour

Another standard pricing model is the proofreading rate per hour. This method is often applied when the scope of the proofreading work involves more than just correcting superficial errors, such as when detailed feedback on content structure and clarity is required. Hourly rates for proofreading services in 2024 typically range from £20 to £50. Higher rates are usually associated with proofreaders with specialised skills or extensive experience.

Academic Proofreading Rates

For academic documents, academic proofreading rates are often tailored to the specific needs of students and researchers. These rates consider the complexity of academic jargon and the precision required for scholarly content. In 2024, academic proofreading is generally priced slightly higher than general content proofreading, reflecting the additional expertise and attention to detail required.

Factors Influencing Proofreading Services Costs

Understanding proofreading services costs involves recognising how multiple variables can impact pricing. Here are additional factors to consider, all of which contribute to a fair and reasonable pricing structure:

• Document Length and Complexity : Naturally, the longer and more complex the document, the higher the proofreading costs. Long documents require more time and effort to ensure consistency and accuracy throughout the text. Complex documents, such as those with many technical terms or data, demand specialised knowledge from the proofreader, adding to the cost.
• Turnaround Time : Expedited services come at a premium. You must pay higher rates if you require your document to be proofread quickly. For example, a 24-hour turnaround time could cost significantly more than a standard one-week turnaround time, reflecting the additional pressure and resource allocation needed to meet the deadline.
• Level of Editing Required : Proofreading can sometimes overlap with light editing. If a document requires extensive rewriting or a profound structural overhaul, the service might move beyond basic proofreading to more intensive editing, which is more expensive.
• Experience and Specialisation of the Proofreader : Highly experienced proofreaders or those with specialised expertise (e.g., in medical or legal proofreading) often charge more for their services. However, their advanced skills ensure a higher standard of accuracy and adherence to field-specific conventions, giving you confidence in the quality of the service.
• Market Demand and Geographic Location : Prices vary by location and market demand. Rates may be higher in areas with a higher cost of living or with a greater demand for proofreading services.

Specialised Proofreading Services and Industry-Specific Rates

In addition to general academic proofreading, there are specialised proofreading services tailored for various industries, which may have different pricing structures:

• Technical and Scientific Proofreading: Engineering, IT, and science documents often contain complex data and terminology. Proofreading these documents requires a good grasp of the subject matter and an understanding of industry-specific conventions. Technical proofreading rates are generally higher due to the need for specialised knowledge.
• Business and Marketing Proofreading: For corporate content such as annual reports, marketing materials, and presentations, proofreading must ensure that the language not only follows grammatical standards but also aligns with the company's branding and communication strategies. Such services often command premium proofreading prices because errors can significantly affect professional reputation and client perception.
• Legal Proofreading: Legal documents require incredibly high accuracy, given the potential implications of even minor mistakes. Legal proofreaders correct grammatical errors and verify the accuracy of legal references and terminology. Consequently, the proofreading rates for legal documents are among the highest in the proofreading field.
• Multilingual Proofreading: For documents that need to be proofread in multiple languages, bilingual or multilingual proofreaders are essential. This service often demands a higher rate per word due to the additional language proficiency required.

These specialised proofreading services ensure that content meets rigorous scholarly standards and adheres to specific industry practices and terminologies. Investing in industry-specific proofreading can be crucial for students and researchers preparing materials for publication or submission in professional contexts. It ensures that their documents reflect the professionalism expected in their respective fields.

Comparing Proofreading Fees

When comparing proofreading fees, it's essential to consider the cost and the value provided. Cheaper services might only sometimes offer the depth of review required for your documents to meet professional or academic standards. Charts comparing various proofreading services can help you visualise the price range and make a more informed decision.

Evaluating Cost Versus Benefit

When considering the cost of proofreading services, evaluating the potential return on investment is essential, as proofreading services cost can vary. For students, a well-proofread thesis can mean the difference between grades; error-free communications can enhance business professionalism and credibility. Thus, while upfront costs may seem substantial, the long-term benefits of high-quality proofreading can far outweigh the initial expenditure.

The cost of proofreading services in 2024 reflects a wide range of factors, including the type of document, the level of detail required, and the urgency of the request. Understanding these factors can help you appropriately decide your proofreading price budget and choose a provider with the best value.

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How much do proofreading services cost at Oxbridge Essays? The final price varies depending on your project's specific requirements—such as word count, type of editing needed, and turnaround time—but our rates are competitive, starting from just £18 per thousand words.

Our team of proofreaders, all of whom hold PhDs and have extensive experience in their fields, are committed to enhancing your work to the highest standards. Whether you need your essay or dissertation proofread urgently or want the assurance of a professional review, we offer fast turnaround times and are always just a phone call away.

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How Much Does Dissertation Proofreading Cost?

We charge for our dissertation proofreading services according to the length of your dissertation, not hourly. The advantage of this is that you are able to calculate a fixed price for your dissertation. Once we have received your dissertation, we will give you a definite price according to the following formula: the word count multiplied by 1.649 pence equals the fixed price.

Even if heavy proofreading is required and we have to spend more time on your dissertation than we anticipated, we guarantee that the price will not increase. You can pay by transferring the money electronically into our HSBC bank account. We can also accept credit card payments through PayPal or Sage Pay.

Dissertation-Proofreading.com is VAT (Value Added Tax) registered and that means we have to charge our customers VAT (currently 20 per cent) on top of the original price. The VAT registration is not optional; we are obliged to do this by UK law.

There is, however, one exemption which will apply to most of our customers:

(1) Customers from outside the United Kingdom (UK) – If you provide us with your full address details we do not have to charge you VAT.

Customers based outside the UK do not have to pay VAT as exemption (1) above applies. As long you send us your institutional or private address we do not have to charge you VAT.

PhD students can risk failure if the PhD dissertation contains grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. Take advantage of our PhD dissertation proofreading services to succeed.

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To avoid failure and its consequences, send your Master’s dissertation to us and we will be happy to help you to succeed by proofreading your writing.

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Our dedicated team of dissertation proofreaders will give you more confidence in the writing you submit. Our bachelor’s dissertation proofreading services will provide all the necessary corrections.

Scientific Dissertation Proofreading

We offer scientific dissertation proofreading services across all science fields. Our scientific proofreaders specialise in correcting and perfecting the language, editorial styles and references.

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Anybody else surprised with proofreaders' rates for reviewing thesis?

I don't know if I am the only one.

My advisor requested that my thesis goes to a native English speaker proof-reading. I talked to a couple of them and their rates are just absurd.

It goes between 1,500 to 2,000 euros!

I really can't afford that. It is insane to think that I have that money.

Is this the standard cost of proof-reading services? I am shocked.

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