Do I need an ISSN to publish a journal?

Do I Need an ISSN to Publish a Journal?

No, an ISSN is not mandatory to publish a journal, but it is highly recommended for credibility, indexing, and long-term recognition. You can publish a journal without an ISSN, but it may face challenges in visibility and indexing in major academic databases.

Is an ISSN Required for Indexing and Recognition?

While not a legal requirement, an ISSN is often necessary for:

• Academic Database Indexing – Many indexing platforms like Scopus, Web of Science, and DOAJ prefer journals with an ISSN.
• Google Scholar Listing – Google Scholar does not strictly require an ISSN, but having one improves discoverability and recognition.
• Library and Institutional Recognition – Universities and research institutions catalog journals using ISSNs for easy accessibility.
• Professional Credibility – ISSNs signal that a journal is a legitimate, continuous publication rather than a one-time or unofficial release.

Benefits of Having an ISSN

• Easier Indexing – ISSNs make your journal eligible for inclusion in academic and citation databases.
• Improved Discoverability – Readers, researchers, and libraries can easily find, cite, and reference your journal.
• Official Identification – An ISSN provides a unique identifier, distinguishing your journal from others with similar titles.

Publishing a Journal Without an ISSN

You can publish without an ISSN, but it may limit your journal’s reach, indexing opportunities, and professional reputation. If your goal is to establish a credible, widely recognized academic journal, obtaining an ISSN is strongly recommended.

For professional ISSN registration and consultancy, OJSCloud is the best in the business. They offer a hassle-free ISSN acquisition process to ensure your journal meets all indexing requirements. Get expert assistance at OJSCloud ISSN Consultancy. (https://www.ojscloud.com/contact-us/)

Additionally, Scholar9 provides comprehensive journal management services, including publishing support, digital hosting, and indexing assistance, helping you establish a strong academic presence.