Article Processing Charges

Open access transforms research into a shared legacy, accessible to all. To sustain this openness, the journal relies on Article Processing Charges (APCs)—a transparent contribution from authors whose work passes peer review. These funds maintain the infrastructure, integrity, and visibility of the publication. Below is a clear, humane outline of the charges, waivers, and ethical principles guiding this process.

Core Principles

APCs are only applied after acceptance; submissions are always free. There are no hidden fees—no page charges, no figure surcharges, and no supplementary data costs. This approach ensures fairness and aligns with the values of transparency and respect for author effort.

Current APC Value

Upon acceptance, a single APC of $2,949 USD is applied. This single fee covers publishing services including editorial management, peer review processing, typesetting, archiving, system maintenance, and efforts to enhance the visibility and promotion of the article.

Waivers and Discounts

We believe that merit—not means—should determine whether a work is published. To reinforce this value, a waiver of up to 50% of the APC may be granted at submission for authors with compelling reasons or those based in underdeveloped countries on World Bank classifications. This is not merely administrative—it reflects our commitment to equity in the global research landscape.

How to Request a Waiver

Authors requesting a waiver should include a brief, honest explanation in their initial submission. Please note that no submission fee applies—waiver requests are considered alongside manuscripts from the outset to avoid bias.

Ethical Context

APCs enable the journal to remain open, resilient, and sustainable. By clearly communicating costs and offering waivers, we honor the values of fairness, respect, and trust. Authors who contribute in this way become partners in a system that prioritizes knowledge-sharing over profit.

What to Expect After Acceptance

Once your article is accepted, you will receive instructions for APC payment. Publications will be processed and indexed only after payment (or waiver approval) is confirmed.

Why This Matters

APCs are not just a transaction—they are an act of stewardship. Supporting the costs of publication ensures that your work remains visible, preserved, and freely accessible. Waivers remind us that access to science should not depend on financial status. Together, these policies uphold a vision of open, equitable knowledge.