Contents:
1. What is a 'returned' submission?
2. When should I return a submission?
2. How do I return a submission?
3. Why has a researcher asked me to return a study?

What is a 'returned' submission?

Sometimes you might not complete a study to the end, so returning a study simply means leaving the study before you've completed it.

When should I return a submission?

  • You realize you don't have enough time to complete it
  • You encounter a technical issue
  • You're using an incompatible device
  • You believe there's an issue with the study that should be reported to Prolific
  • You simply lose interest or change your mind about participating
  • After completion, you realize your submission shouldn't be used by the researcher
  • The researcher requests you return your submission for a valid reason

How do I return a submission?

You can return a study whenever you like, including:

  • When you've reserved a place on a study
    • If you've just reserved a place but changed your mind, simply click 'Cancel Reservation' to return the study
  • While you're actively participating in a study
    • If you're currently working on a study, click 'Cancel participation' on the Prolific webpage (not the study webpage)
  • After you've submitted a study and it's awaiting review

To return a study you've already submitted:

  1. Go to your Submissions page
  2. Locate the study you submitted, and look for a circular arrow labeled "Return and cancel reward"
  3. Click the arrow, then confirm by clicking "Proceed" on the pop-up
  4. That's all you need to do - it returns the study and prevents you from receiving an unwarranted rejection.

Keep in mind that since you haven't completed the study, you won't receive payment for a returned submission.

Why has a researcher asked me to return a submission?

Researchers may request that you return your submission if:

  • You only partially completed the study - for example, if you were fairly screened out
  • You encountered technical problems. You should not be rejected for this - please ask the researcher to consider awarding partial payments, though they aren't obligated to do so
  • You withdrew your consent (the researcher will then delete any data they have from you in their external software)
  • The researcher prefers to give you the opportunity to return your submission rather than penalize you with a rejection. Note that rejections should only be given when a participant has been clearly negligent.

✋ Please note: researchers cannot return submissions themselves

Prolific reserves the right to overturn invalid rejections in certain circumstances.

If you believe you've been unfairly asked to return a study, please contact support using the button below and provide:

  • Screenshots of your communication with the researcher
  • The name of the study in question.

Need further help?
Click here to contact us