Charges Policy

Heighpubs Otolaryngology and Rhinology (HOR) is an open access journal that sustains its publishing activities through Article Processing Charges (APCs). Unlike subscription-based journals, HOR makes all content freely available to readers worldwide. This policy provides transparency on publication charges, payment methods, waivers, and funding support, in line with DOAJ transparency standards and COPE guidelines.

What the Charges Cover

APCs support the full publication cycle, including:

  • Editorial and peer review management
  • Manuscript formatting, typesetting, and proofreading
  • Digital Object Identifier (DOI) registration via CrossRef
  • Open access hosting and website maintenance
  • Long-term archiving (LOCKSS, CLOCKSS, PKP PN)
  • Indexing in major databases and discoverability services

Current Article Processing Charges

Article Type APC (USD)
Original Research $2949
Review Articles $2949
Case Reports $2949
Short Communications / Letters $2949
Clinical Images $2949

Discounts and Waivers

HOR offers discounts or waivers to ensure equitable participation:

  • Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): Up to 100% waiver based on World Bank classification.
  • Early Career Researchers: Discounted APCs for authors within 5 years of their first publication.
  • Editorial Board Members and Reviewers: Special discounts in recognition of service.
  • Institutional Partnerships: APCs may be covered by library or consortia agreements.

Payment Process

Payments can be made through:

  • Credit/debit card (secure online portal)
  • Bank transfer (invoice provided)
  • Institutional payment agreements

All invoices are issued in USD unless otherwise requested. Payment is due upon acceptance of the manuscript.

Refund Policy

APCs are generally non-refundable once the article has entered peer review. Exceptions are detailed in our Refund Policy.

Funder and Institutional Support

HOR complies with mandates from funders such as the NIH, Wellcome Trust, Gates Foundation, and Horizon Europe. Authors should check with their funder or institution for APC coverage or reimbursement eligibility.

Transparency Commitment

  • APC amounts are clearly listed on the website with no hidden fees.
  • No submission charges or page charges are applied.
  • No fees are charged for color figures or supplementary files.

Example: An author from a low-income country may apply for a full waiver, while an EU-funded author can charge APCs to their Horizon Europe grant.

FAQs

Are submission charges required?

No, HOR does not charge submission or handling fees.

What if my institution refuses to cover APCs?

Authors may apply for a waiver or discount on a case-by-case basis.

Do APCs affect editorial decisions?

No, decisions are based solely on scientific quality and peer review outcomes, independent of payment ability.

How do I request a waiver?

Email the editorial office with proof of eligibility (e.g., institutional affiliation, country classification).

Contact Information