Knowledge Base Core Concepts What Is an ISSN?
Core Concepts

What Is an ISSN?

An ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) is a unique 8-digit identifier assigned to a serial publication such as an academic journal.

Definition

An ISSN (International Standard Serial Number) is a unique 8-digit number in the format XXXX-XXXX assigned to a serial publication — any publication issued in successive parts, including academic journals, magazines, and newspapers. ISSNs are managed by the ISSN International Centre in Paris and assigned through national ISSN centres.


ISSNs identify the journal title, not the content. Every unique journal title gets its own ISSN. If a journal changes its title, it must apply for a new ISSN for the new title.

E-ISSN vs P-ISSN

A journal can have two ISSNs: one for its print version (P-ISSN) and one for its online version (E-ISSN).


  • P-ISSN — Assigned to the physical print edition. Required only if the journal publishes in print.
  • E-ISSN — Assigned to the online edition. All online journals should have an E-ISSN.

Most new journals launch online-only and therefore only need an E-ISSN. When applying to DOAJ, Scopus, and other indexing bodies, both ISSNs should be listed if the journal has both.

ISSN and Journal Indexing

Every major indexing database uses ISSN as the primary journal identifier:


  • DOAJ — Requires a valid ISSN before a journal can apply
  • Scopus — Uses ISSN to link journal metadata in the Source Title list
  • UGC CARE — Requires a valid ISSN for listing
  • CrossRef — Uses ISSN in DOI metadata to identify the publishing journal
  • Google Scholar — Uses ISSN to group articles from the same journal

Frequently Asked Questions

P-ISSN (print ISSN) identifies the print version of a journal. E-ISSN (electronic ISSN) identifies the online version. Most modern journals that publish online only have an E-ISSN. Journals with both print and online editions have both.
ISSN applications are submitted to the national ISSN centre for your country. In India, applications go to the ISSN National Centre at the National Science Library, CSIR-NISCPR. The process takes 2–6 weeks and requires a sample of the journal.
An ISSN is not legally required to publish, but it is required for indexing in almost every academic database including DOAJ, Scopus, UGC CARE, and Web of Science. Applying for an ISSN should be one of the first steps when launching a journal.
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