The review you write after receiving a free product isn't just a formality – it determines whether you'll receive 1 or 20 products in the coming months. Testers with high-quality reviews have 3x more approvals in future applications.
The review you write after receiving a free product isn't just a formality – it determines whether you'll receive 1 or 20 products in the coming months. Testers with high-quality reviews have 3x more approvals in future applications. In this guide, you'll learn the exact template used by veteran testers who receive 10+ products per month.
Reading time: 8 minutes | Expected result: 5-star reviews that increase your tester score
Why Is Your Review So Important?
Shein uses a scoring system to classify testers:
| Tester Score | Review Quality | Approval Rate |
| 🌟 Beginner (0-2 reviews) | N/A (no history) | 20-30% |
| ⭐⭐ Reliable (3-5 good reviews) | 100+ words, 3+ photos | 45-55% |
| ⭐⭐⭐ Veteran (6-10 excellent reviews) | 150+ words, 5+ photos, video | 65-75% |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ VIP (10+ exceptional reviews) | 200+ words, video, high engagement | 85%+ (products offered actively) |
💡 Key Insight: Your first review defines your trajectory. A mediocre review = 6 months to reach Veteran. An excellent review = 2 months.
Minimum Requirements (What Shein Requires)
Before learning the excellence template, understand the MINIMUM to avoid penalties:
- ✅ Deadline: 7 days after receiving the product (extendable to 14 days upon request)
- ✅ Words: Minimum 100 words (recommended: 150-200)
- ✅ Photos: Minimum 3 photos (recommended: 5-7)
- ✅ Rating: 1-5 stars (be honest!)
- ✅ Mandatory aspects: Quality, size/fit, and recommendation (yes/no)
⚠️ Severe Penalties: Not submitting review on time = -50 score points. Review with less than 100 words = -20 points. Low-quality photos = -10 points. Accumulating -100 points = account suspension.
5-Star Review Template (Copy and Adapt)
Use this 5-section structure to create reviews that Shein loves:
Section 1: First Impression (30-40 words)
What to write: Initial reaction to unboxing, expectation vs reality, first sensations.
Example – Dress:
“I received the dress in 18 days, well packaged. The first impression was excellent – the fabric is softer than expected from the photos. The mint green color came exactly as shown on the website, no unpleasant surprises.”
Example – Kitchen Organizer:
“It arrived in perfect condition, no dents. The plastic is more resistant than I imagined. I tested it with utensils and it fit perfectly in my 16-inch drawer.”
Section 2: Quality and Material (40-50 words)
What to write: Material details, stitching, finish, perceived durability.
Example – Clothing:
“The fabric is 95% polyester and 5% spandex, as described. The stitching is well-done, with no loose threads. The zipper works smoothly and seems durable. I hand washed it (cold water) and it didn't fade or shrink. The fit remained intact after 3 uses.”
Example – Electronics:
“Headphones with matte plastic finish that doesn't show fingerprints. The cable is 4 feet (sufficient) and reinforced at the ends. Gold-plated connectors prevent oxidation. I tested for 6 hours straight without discomfort.”
Section 3: Fit/Functionality (30-40 words)
What to write: If it's clothing, talk about size/fit. If it's a functional product, talk about performance.
Example – Clothing:
“I ordered size M (I wear M in the US) and it fit perfectly – neither tight nor loose. The length goes to the knee (I'm 5'5″ tall). Attention: the sleeves are fitted, if you have larger arms, consider sizing up.”
Example – Home Product:
“Holds up to 6.5 lbs as described – tested with heavy pans and it didn't bend. The adhesive sticks strongly to tiles and hasn't come loose after 10 days. Installation took 2 minutes (no tools needed).”
Section 4: Pros and Cons (40-50 words)
CRITICAL: Be honest! Shein values genuine feedback, including constructive criticism.
Structure:
Pros:
- ✅ [Strong point 1]
- ✅ [Strong point 2]
- ✅ [Strong point 3]
Areas for Improvement:
- ⚠️ [Something that could be better – optional but recommended]
Example:
“✅ Excellent value for money | ✅ Fast delivery | ✅ Versatile for various occasions
⚠️ Would be perfect if it had internal pockets (but it's not a deal-breaker)”
Section 5: Final Recommendation (20-30 words)
What to write: Would you recommend it? For whom? In what situations to use?
Example:
“Highly recommend for those looking for [type of product] with great quality and affordable price. Ideal for [situation]. I'm already eyeing other colors!”
Complete Review Example (200 words)
Product: Floral Midi Dress
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved It! Exceeded Expectations
First Impression: I received it in 18 days, very well packaged. The dress is even more beautiful in person – the fabric has a gorgeous fluid drape and the floral print is delicate, not over the top. The royal blue color is vibrant and true to the photos.
Quality: 100% viscose fabric, cool and comfortable for summer weather. Impeccable stitching, no loose threads. The internal lining prevents transparency. I machine washed it (delicate cycle, cold water) and it came out perfect – didn't wrinkle or fade.
Fit: I ordered size M (usually wear US 6-8). It fit perfectly! The elastic at the waist adjusts well without pinching. Midi length is ideal for 5'6″ – falls just below the knee. Adjustable straps are a nice touch.
Pros and Cons:
✅ Quality better than expected
✅ Versatile (everyday wear and events)
✅ Doesn't wrinkle easily
⚠️ Could have pockets (but that's minor)
Recommendation: Highly recommended for those seeking comfortable and elegant dresses. I've already worn it 3 different occasions and always get compliments. Worth every minute of waiting!
Words: 187 | Photos attached: 6 (full body, details, label, texture)
Photo Guide: What and How to Photograph
Photo 1: Product Overview
- Clothing: Worn on body (full body) or on neutral background
- Accessory: Complete product on light background
- Home/Electronics: Product assembled/working
Photo 2: Quality Detail
- Close-up of stitching, finish, material, label
- Focus on elements showing quality (or lack thereof)
Photo 3: In Use (Real Context)
- Clothing: You wearing it in real situation (not static pose)
- Home: Product in use in environment (e.g., organizer in drawer)
- Electronics: Working (e.g., headphones connected to phone)
Photos 4-6: Extras That Increase Score
- Comparison with reference object (shows real size)
- Label with composition/care instructions
- Different angles/poses
- Product packaged (if packaging is nice)
💡 Photography Tips:
• Natural light (near window) > artificial light
• Neutral background (white, gray, beige) highlights product
• Sharp photos (clean the lens first!)
• Minimum resolution: 1080x1080px
Video Review: Is It Worth It?
Videos are NOT mandatory, but increase your score by 40%.
When It's Worth It:
- ✅ Products with video requirement (you have no choice)
- ✅ Products over $50 (higher impact on score)
- ✅ If you want to reach VIP status quickly
- ✅ If you have Instagram/TikTok (you can reuse the content)
Ideal Video Format:
- Duration: 30-60 seconds (doesn't need to be long!)
- Content: Unboxing + close-ups + you using/testing
- Audio: Not mandatory (can use background music)
- Editing: Simple (basic transitions are enough)
45-second template:
- 0-10s: Unboxing/first impression
- 10-25s: Close-ups of details/quality
- 25-40s: You using/testing the product
- 40-45s: Final recommendation (thumbs up/down)
Errors That Destroy Your Tester Score
❌ Error #1: Generic Review
Bad: “Good product, recommend.”
Problem: Zero useful information = -20 score points
❌ Error #2: Low-Quality Photos
Bad: Dark, blurry photos, product crumpled on floor
Problem: Looks sloppy = -10 points
❌ Error #3: Fake/Exaggerated Review
Bad: “PERFECT! BEST PRODUCT EVER! 100000/10!”
Problem: Sounds fake, Shein detects and penalizes severely
❌ Error #4: Only Giving 5 Stars Always
Problem: Testers who ALWAYS give 5 stars are marked as “unreliable”. Be honest – a well-justified 3-4 star review is worth more than a generic 5-star.
❌ Error #5: Delaying the Review
Problem: Each day late after the 7 days = -5 points. After 14 days = severe penalty + possible blocking of future applications.
What to Do If the Product Is Bad?
Product arrived defective, wrong size, or terrible quality? Be honest in your review!
How to Give a Negative Review Without Hurting Your Score:
- Be specific about the problem: “The dress came with an open seam on the right side”
- Use constructive tone, not aggressive: “I suggest reinforcing the seams” vs “Terrible quality!”
- Include photos of the defect: Visual evidence is valued
- Give a fair rating: Serious defect = 1-2 stars. Minor problem = 3 stars
- Complete the text normally: Even with low rating, write the 150-200 words
💡 Important: Honest negative reviews do NOT hurt your score – on the contrary, they show you're a serious tester. What hurts is incomplete review or not submitting one.
Final Checklist Before Publishing Review
- ☐ 150-200 words written (not 100 minimum!)
- ☐ 5 sections completed: Impression, Quality, Fit, Pros/Cons, Recommendation
- ☐ 5-7 sharp photos in good lighting
- ☐ At least 1 photo of you using/testing
- ☐ Honest rating (1-5 stars) with justification
- ☐ Mentioned material, size/functionality, and durability
- ☐ Included at least 1 improvement point (even in positive reviews)
- ☐ Reviewed spelling and grammar
- ☐ Deadline: Within 7 days after receiving
🎯 Expected Result: Following this template, your review will have a 5/5 rating from Shein and increase your tester score by +30 points. After 3-5 reviews like this, you reach “Veteran” status and your approvals jump from 30% to 70%+.