At iConclusions, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, open access publishing services that ensure your research reaches a global audience. To support the costs associated with the publication process, we apply Article Processing Charges (APCs) for articles accepted for publication. Below, we provide detailed information about our APCs and related policies.

1. What are Article Processing Charges (APCs)?

Article Processing Charges (APCs) are fees paid by authors or their institutions to cover the costs of publishing an article in an open access journal. These charges support the various stages of the publication process, including peer review, editing, typesetting, and digital archiving.

2. APC Structure

a. APC Rates

• Standard APC:

  The standard APC for articles published in our journals is 2000 USD, check the list for more details (Africa & Middle East 0.0 USD). This fee covers the entire publication process from submission to online publication.

• Discounts and Waivers:

  We offer discounts and waivers based on the authors’ circumstances, including:

  • Institutional Partnerships: Authors affiliated with partner institutions may be eligible for discounted APC rates.
  • Financial Hardship: We provide waivers or reduced fees for authors from low-income countries or those facing financial difficulties. Please contact us for more information on eligibility.

b. Fee Breakdown

• Peer Review: Costs associated with the peer review process, including reviewer compensation and administrative management.
• Editing and Formatting: Professional editing, proofreading, and formatting to ensure the manuscript meets publication standards.
• Typesetting: The preparation of the article for print and digital formats, including layout and design.
• Digital Archiving: Long-term storage and preservation of the article in digital repositories to ensure continued access.

3. Payment Process

a. Invoice and Payment

• Invoice Issuance:

  Once an article is accepted for publication, an invoice for the APC will be issued to the corresponding author or their institution.

• Payment Methods:

  APCs can be paid via various methods, including credit card, bank transfer, or institutional invoicing. Detailed payment instructions will be provided with the invoice.

• Payment Deadline:

  Payment is required before the final publication of the article. The payment deadline will be specified on the invoice.

b. Refund Policy

• Refunds:

  APCs are non-refundable once the article has been accepted and processing has commenced. In exceptional circumstances, such as errors on the publisher’s part, refunds may be considered.

4. Financial Support

a. Institutional Support

• Institutional Agreements:

  Some institutions have agreements with iConclusions that cover APCs for their researchers. Check with your institution to see if such an agreement is in place.

• Funding Opportunities:

  Authors are encouraged to explore funding opportunities through research grants, institutional funds, or other sources to cover APCs.

b. APC Waivers

• Application for Waivers:

  Authors who believe they qualify for a waiver or discount should apply during the submission process or contact the editorial office for consideration.

• Eligibility Criteria:

  Waivers are typically granted based on financial need, geographic location, or institutional affiliation. Documentation may be required to support waiver requests.

5. Transparency

a. APC Information

• Publication Fee Transparency:

  APC rates and related information are clearly published on our website and provided in the journal’s submission guidelines.

• Cost Breakdown:

  A detailed breakdown of what the APC covers is available to ensure transparency in how the fees are utilized.