What is the difference between E-ISSN and P-ISSN?

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.

How do I apply for an ISSN?

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.

Is an ISSN required to start a 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.

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.