Accepting or Declining a Review Invitation
The Review Request Email
When an editor assigns you as a reviewer, you receive an email containing:
- The article title and abstract
- The review deadline
- A link to accept or decline the review
You may also log in and respond from the dashboard.
Responding via Email Link
The email contains two direct links:
| Link | Action |
|---|---|
| Accept and begin review | Accept the invitation and go directly to the review form |
| Decline | Decline and optionally suggest an alternative reviewer |
Responding via Dashboard
- Log in to OJS
- Go to User Menu → Dashboard → My Queue
- Find the pending review request
- Click Accept or Decline
If You Decline
When declining, you have the option to:
- Leave a brief reason (visible to editors, not authors)
- Suggest an alternative reviewer (name and email)
Requesting a Deadline Extension
If you accept but need more time:
- Open the submission in your dashboard
- Click Request Extension (if enabled)
- Propose a new date — the editor receives a notification to approve
Conflicts of Interest
If you recognise a conflict of interest after accepting:
- Decline immediately through the dashboard
- Notify the editor via the Discussion thread
Do not access or read the manuscript if a conflict exists.
Further Reading
- Learning OJS – Reviewing — Accepting and declining review invitations
- COPE Peer Review Guidelines — Ethical standards for peer reviewers