How an IJIF journal evaluation moves from registration to public verification
A clear overview of the main stages used to review journal information, assess eligibility, complete evaluation and publish approved records.
From journal registration to a verifiable public record
The IJIF evaluation process is designed to keep journal registration, eligibility review, assessment and public verification distinct. The steps below describe the public-facing process without changing the detailed rules set out in the Evaluation Policy.
1. Journal Registration
The publisher or an authorised representative submits the journal through the Publisher Portal with the required identifying and publishing information.
2. Initial Screening
The submitted record is checked for completeness, journal identity, ISSN information and the basic information required to proceed with an IJIF evaluation.
3. Eligibility & Information Review
The journal is considered against the applicable eligibility timing and the information relevant to the stated evaluation year. Clarification may be requested where material information is incomplete or cannot be reasonably verified.
4. Evaluation Against Published Criteria
Eligible journals are assessed against the active IJIF evaluation criteria, using the journal information and evidence available for the assessment.
5. Evaluation Decision
The evaluation is completed on the basis of the applicable criteria and verified information. Registration or submission does not guarantee approval, a certificate or any particular IJIF Score.
6. Public Record & Verification
Where an evaluation is approved for public display, the journal record may appear in the Journal Directory with its stated evaluation-year information. Issued certificates can be checked through the official verification facility.
Published criteria and verifiable information
The evaluation is based on the criteria applicable to the relevant evaluation year and on information that can be reasonably reviewed or verified. Where essential information remains incomplete, the assessment may remain pending or may not proceed to approval.
Review the rules and public journal records
The Evaluation Policy explains eligibility, evidence and decision principles in detail. Approved public records can be explored through the Journal Directory.