IJSCI · ISSN 3049-0251 · Author resources
Article Processing Charges Explained for Authors
Article processing charge, or APC, is one of the most searched and least understood terms in publishing. This page explains in plain language what an APC is, why open-access journals use it, who normally pays it and what it does and does not mean for your paper.
What is an APC?
An APC is a fee charged for publishing an accepted article in an open-access journal. Because readers do not pay to read the article, the cost of running the journal is covered by other sources. For many journals, one of these is the author fee.
The cost of running a journal can include managing submissions, coordinating editors and reviewers, producing the final article, registering a DOI and keeping the article online.
Who pays the APC?
| Payer | Notes |
|---|---|
| The author | Common for self-funded or student authors |
| The author’s institution | Some institutions cover fees for staff or students |
| A research funder | Grants may allow publication costs |
| Nobody, if the journal has another funding source | Some journals are supported by societies or institutions |
When is the APC charged?
Journals differ. Some charge a fee on submission, and others only after acceptance. IJSCI states that publication payment is made after acceptance. Always read the journal’s own instructions and do not pay before you have received them.
What an APC is not
- It is not a payment for acceptance. Reviewers and editors decide on the paper’s merits.
- It is not a guarantee of indexing, citations or any ranking.
- It does not cover services that the journal has not listed.
- It does not give you the right to a particular issue or date.
An honest journal keeps the editorial decision and the fee separate.
IJSCI’s APC options
| Author and option | Fee | DOI |
|---|---|---|
| Indian authors, without DOI | ₹499 | Not included |
| Indian authors, with DOI | ₹699 | Included |
| International authors | $20 USD | Included |
For the full details, see the article processing charges page and the guide to the DOI option.
Questions to ask about any APC
- What exactly does the fee cover?
- Is the DOI included?
- When is it due: at submission or after acceptance?
- Are there any other charges, such as page, colour or reprint charges?
- Is there a refund policy, and where is it published?
Frequently asked questions
What does APC stand for?
Article processing charge. It is a fee for publishing an accepted article in an open-access journal.
Does paying the APC guarantee acceptance?
No. The editorial decision is separate. A trustworthy journal will not link the two.
When do I pay IJSCI’s APC?
After acceptance, following the official instructions for your manuscript.
Where can I read the refund rules?
In IJSCI’s cancellation and refund policy, linked in the website footer.
Related author guides
Discuss your submission with the editorial office
If you have a question about scope, manuscript requirements or publication fees, email editor@ijsci.com. Include your paper ID if you have already submitted.
