Introduction
In the evolving world of academic publishing, particularly in open access models, the term Article Processing Charge (APC) has become increasingly common. For many Indian PhD scholars and researchers, especially those new to publishing, the concept of paying to publish an article can raise questions. Why should authors pay to share their own work? Is it ethical or necessary? This blog explains what APCs are, why they exist, and how to navigate them wisely in the Indian academic context.
What Is an Article Processing Charge (APC)?
An Article Processing Charge (APC) is a fee charged by some journals to authors once their article is accepted for publication. Unlike traditional subscription-based journals, where readers or institutions pay to access published content, APCs shift the cost burden to authors. In return, the published research becomes freely accessible to everyone.
These charges are most common in open access journals, where the aim is to remove paywalls and increase the reach and impact of research. APCs typically cover costs related to:
- Managing the peer review process
- Editorial and administrative work
- Typesetting, formatting, and online hosting
- DOI assignment and indexing
- Archiving and digital preservation
Why Do APCs Exist?
Academic publishing involves several backend processes that require funding. Even though the research itself may be publicly funded or self-conducted, the infrastructure to peer-review, edit, host, and disseminate the work must be maintained.
APCs provide a sustainable financial model for open access journals that do not rely on subscriptions. The idea is: if research is freely available to readers worldwide, the cost should be borne by the author or their institution.
Is Paying an APC Mandatory for All Journals?
No, not all journals charge APCs.
There are three broad publishing models:
- Subscription-based journals: No APC; readers or libraries pay to access the content.
- Open access journals with APCs: Authors pay so readers can access the article for free.
- Diamond/platinum open access journals: No fee for authors or readers; funded by institutions or governments.
Several Indian journals, especially those listed in UGC-CARE, operate on the diamond model and do not charge APCs.
Common APC Ranges
APCs vary widely depending on the journal’s reputation, publisher, and field of study. On average:
- Low-tier open access journals: ₹2,000 to ₹8,000
- Mid-range journals (including some Scopus-listed): ₹10,000 to ₹30,000
- High-impact international journals: ₹1,00,000 or more (USD 1,500–3,000)
Some journals offer waivers or discounts for authors from developing countries, including India.
APCs vs. Predatory Practices
It is crucial to distinguish legitimate APCs from those charged by predatory journals. Not every journal that charges an APC is predatory, but many predatory journals misuse the APC model by accepting articles without proper peer review, solely for financial gain.
Legitimate journals:
- Are indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, or UGC-CARE
- Disclose APCs transparently on their websites
- Have a structured peer-review process
- List real, verifiable editorial board members
- Issue DOIs and maintain archiving standards
Predatory journals:
- Promise quick publication without review
- Aggressively solicit submissions via email
- Do not disclose APCs until late in the process
- Mimic the names of reputed journals
- Often lack indexing in credible databases
Do Indian Scholars Need to Pay APCs?
Indian researchers have several options. Many Indian journals listed in UGC-CARE do not charge APCs or charge minimal fees. Additionally, public university journals, society publications, and government-funded journals often operate on a no-fee model.
However, when targeting international open access journals—especially those indexed in Scopus or Web of Science—APCs may apply.
In such cases, scholars should:
- Check if their university or funding agency provides APC support
- Look for APC waivers offered to authors from low- and middle-income countries
- Choose only journals with verified indexing and ethical practices
Why Some Institutions Encourage APC Payments
Leading academic institutions globally and in India are increasingly moving toward open access publishing. Making research freely accessible improves visibility, increases citations, and serves the public good—especially for research funded by taxpayers.
Thus, some institutions are allocating budgets or creating policies to support researchers in paying APCs. They may prefer APC-based open access journals for their wider reach and global visibility.
Ethical Considerations
The idea of paying to publish may feel uncomfortable for some researchers. However, the APC model is not about “buying” publication—it is about funding access to knowledge. As long as the journal follows ethical practices, performs genuine peer review, and is transparently indexed, paying an APC is considered acceptable in academic circles.
The real concern lies with journals that exploit this model to profit from scholars without providing academic value. This is why awareness and due diligence are essential.
Conclusion
Article Processing Charges (APCs) are a legitimate part of the scholarly publishing ecosystem, especially in open access models. While not all journals charge them, and not all scholars need to pay them, understanding their purpose and role is important for making informed decisions.
For Indian PhD scholars and early-career researchers, the focus should be on journal credibility, indexing, and academic integrity—not merely on cost. Whether or not a journal charges an APC, what matters most is that your research is published in a space that respects scholarly standards and contributes meaningfully to your academic journey.