APC & Waiver Policy
Article Processing Charges
ScienceForecast operates an open access publishing model in which published articles are made freely available to readers. To support the editorial, production, publication, hosting, and maintenance of its journals, ScienceForecast may apply an Article Processing Charge (APC) to published manuscripts. APCs are applicable only to manuscripts that have been accepted and published. Authors are not required to pay an APC at the time of manuscript submission or during the peer-review process.
APC Range
The Article Processing Charge generally falls within a range of USD 200 to USD 520 per published article. The applicable charge may vary depending on the journal, article type, editorial and publication requirements, and other relevant considerations. The final APC applicable to an article will be communicated to the author by the ScienceForecast Editorial Office.
No Payment for Submission or Peer Review
Authors are not required to make payment simply to submit a manuscript or to have a manuscript considered for editorial assessment and peer review. Editorial decisions are based on the journal's scope, editorial assessment, peer-review process, and the scientific suitability of the manuscript. An APC becomes applicable only after the manuscript has been accepted and published.
Waivers and APC Adjustments
ScienceForecast may provide full or partial APC waivers or reductions in appropriate circumstances. Waivers and adjustments may be considered based on the author's circumstances, institutional or geographic considerations, the nature of the manuscript, or other factors determined by the Editorial Office. Waiver decisions are considered on a case-by-case basis and are not automatically guaranteed.
Requesting a Waiver
Authors who require a full or partial waiver, or who believe that the applicable APC may present a financial difficulty, are encouraged to discuss the matter with the ScienceForecast Editorial Office. Authors may contact the Editorial Office at support@scienceforecastoa.com to discuss the applicable APC and any possible waiver or adjustment before payment is requested.
APC Communication
ScienceForecast aims to communicate the applicable APC clearly to authors before any payment is requested. Authors should review the APC information provided by the Editorial Office and contact the office if they require clarification regarding the amount, payment process, waiver, or reduction.
No Influence on Editorial Decisions
Payment of an APC does not guarantee acceptance or publication of a manuscript. Editorial and peer-review decisions are made independently of an author's ability or willingness to pay publication charges. A manuscript must first meet the journal's editorial and scholarly requirements before publication.
Refunds and Exceptional Circumstances
Where an APC has been paid and exceptional circumstances arise that affect publication, authors may contact the ScienceForecast Editorial Office to discuss the matter. Any refund, adjustment, or other resolution will be considered according to the circumstances of the individual case and the applicable publishing arrangements.
APC Inquiries
For questions regarding Article Processing Charges, waivers, reductions, payment arrangements, or exceptional circumstances, authors may contact the ScienceForecast Editorial Office at support@scienceforecastoa.com .