Introduction
For Indian PhD scholars and early-career researchers, publishing in UGC-CARE-listed journals is often a requirement for academic advancement. But one common question creates confusion: are these journals allowed to charge processing or publication fees? The answer is not straightforward. While the UGC-CARE List ensures minimum quality benchmarks, it does not automatically control or restrict the financial practices of the journals it lists. This blog explores the nuances of fees, transparency, and what researchers should watch out for.
Understanding UGC-CARE and Its Purpose
UGC-CARE (Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics) was launched by the University Grants Commission to promote high-quality research and discourage predatory or unethical publishing. It maintains a dynamic list of approved journals across disciplines, updated quarterly.
However, UGC-CARE is not a publisher. It does not publish journals or set their fee structures. Its role is to ensure that journals meet certain academic and ethical standards, such as peer review, transparency, editorial integrity, and regular publication schedules.
Are Journals on the List Allowed to Charge?
Yes, journals listed in UGC-CARE may charge an Article Processing Charge (APC) or publication fee. There is no official restriction from UGC that bars journals from collecting fees.
What matters is how the journal handles those charges:
- Fees must be disclosed openly on the journal’s website or in its submission guidelines.
- The peer review process should not be influenced by payment. Acceptance must be based on academic merit, not the ability to pay.
- No hidden charges should be imposed after acceptance.
Paid vs. Predatory: Where the Line Is Drawn
It is essential to distinguish between legitimate processing fees and exploitative practices:
- A genuine journal may charge a reasonable APC for editing, layout, and online hosting—especially if it offers open access.
- A predatory journal demands fees without providing proper peer review or editorial quality, and often hides fee details until the end.
Just being on the UGC-CARE list does not guarantee that a journal’s fee practices are ethical. Scholars should evaluate each journal critically.
Why Do Some UGC-CARE Journals Charge Fees?
There are several valid reasons:
- Operational Costs
Running a journal involves editorial work, typesetting, DOI registration, website maintenance, and digital archiving. APCs help cover these costs.
- Open Access Publishing
Journals offering free access to readers usually shift the financial burden to authors. This promotes wider dissemination of research.
- Non-Government Support
Many journals are managed by societies or private publishers that do not receive institutional funding. APCs ensure sustainability.
How Much Is Too Much?
There is no UGC-specified fee limit. However, journals must remain within reasonable bounds. For Indian researchers, even a few thousand rupees can be significant. Excessive charges—especially without a clear breakdown of services—should raise suspicion.
As a rough benchmark:
- ₹1,000–₹5,000 is common for Indian journals.
- Higher fees may be justified for international collaborations or enhanced editorial features, but they should always be explained clearly.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Even if a journal appears on the UGC-CARE list, it’s wise to check for the following warning signs:
- Lack of Fee Transparency
If fee details are not available before submission, be cautious.
- Fast-Track for Extra Payment
If the journal promises quicker publication for higher fees, it may not be ethical.
- No Rejection Policy
If every paper is accepted after payment, the journal’s quality is questionable.
- Fee Before Peer Review
Ethical journals charge only after the manuscript is reviewed and accepted.
What Does UGC Say About It?
UGC has clarified in multiple notices that inclusion in the UGC-CARE list does not imply endorsement of all practices. The responsibility of choosing journals lies with the author and their institution.
UGC encourages scholars to check:
- Whether the journal is still active on the UGC-CARE list (as the list changes quarterly)
- Whether the journal follows genuine peer-review processes
- Whether the journal is indexed in trusted platforms
Best Practices for Indian Researchers
- Always Check the Latest UGC-CARE List
Inclusion is not permanent. A journal listed this quarter might be removed in the next.
- Talk to Faculty or Research Guides
Your supervisor or university librarian may be aware of journals that are trusted and widely accepted.
- Keep Proof of Payment and Acceptance
Maintain documentation to show that payment was made only after acceptance.
- Do Not Chase Speed
It is better to wait a few months for a quality publication than fall for fast-track traps.
Document Peer Review
Save reviewer comments, editorial decisions, and revision history. These help verify that the process was legitimate.
Conclusion
UGC-CARE journals can charge processing fees, but they must do so transparently and ethically. The mere presence of a journal on the UGC-CARE list does not guarantee fair practices. Indian researchers must remain alert, informed, and careful while choosing where to publish and how much to pay.
Informed publishing is not just about meeting academic requirements—it is also about protecting the value of your research. With a little extra caution and consultation, scholars can ensure their work reaches credible platforms without falling prey to unethical journals.