Open access publishers
More and more publishers are offering options for open access publishing. But, not all open access journals or platforms are of the same quality. This page tells you how to recognise reliable publishers and predatory publishers.
Reliable publishers
Reliable magazines meet strict quality criteria. You recognise reliable publishers in several ways:
- The publisher appears in one of these databases:
- (for open access journals)
- The publisher is a member of or . Check this on the COPE or OASPA website itself, not on the publisher's website.
- You know someone on the editorial board of the journal. Get in touch and ask if they are indeed an editor and if the journal has good peer reviews.
- You know one of the authors of recent articles. Contact that and ask about experiences and peer reviews.
Predatory publishers
Predatory publishers charge publication fees (APCs) without providing editorial services or applying peer reviews. Or, they don't provide their services properly, which can lead to a delay the publication process.
It can be difficult to spot predatory publishers. Lists of predatory journals are not always correct (anymore). Like those on openaccessjournal.com, or Beall's list. gives a more reliable overview, but is only accessible for a fee.
In doubt?
- Consult the tool;
- contact the library;
- or consider publication in another journal.
More information
On , researchers share their experiences with journals and you can leave your own experience.