EBSCO Information Services is one of the world’s most widely used academic research platforms, offering curated access to scholarly content across disciplines. Inclusion in EBSCO enhances a journal’s global reach, academic reputation, and integration with thousands of university libraries and research portals.
This guide outlines the eligibility criteria, submission process, and best practices to support your journal’s application for EBSCO indexing.
Why EBSCO Indexing Matters
Indexing in EBSCO provides significant benefits for academic journals:
- Institutional Reach: Your content becomes accessible via library systems used by millions of researchers worldwide.
- Improved Discoverability: Articles are integrated into library search engines and scholarly databases.
- Academic Validation: Indexing supports your journal’s editorial credibility and encourages submissions from quality authors.
- Citation Growth: Indexed journals typically experience higher visibility, readership, and citation frequency.
Key databases include Academic Search Ultimate, Education Research Complete, Business Source Complete, MEDLINE with Full Text, and CINAHL Plus.
Step 1: Confirm Journal Eligibility
To be considered for indexing, your journal should meet these minimum standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Peer Review | All scholarly content must undergo a formal peer review process. |
| ISSN Registration | A valid ISSN issued by the ISSN International Centre is required. |
| Publishing History | A minimum of one year of consistent publishing is strongly preferred. |
| Publishing Frequency | Quarterly or more frequent publication is recommended. |
| English Metadata | Titles, abstracts, and keywords must be available in English. |
| Digital Availability | Articles must be hosted on a stable online platform in PDF or HTML. |
| Licensing Disclosure | Reuse terms must be clearly stated on the journal’s website. |
Step 2: Strengthen Your Journal Website
EBSCO places strong emphasis on transparency and professionalism in journal websites. Required sections include:
| Section | Required Content |
|---|---|
| Aims & Scope | Clearly defined subject focus and scholarly purpose. |
| Editorial Board | Names, affiliations, and countries of editorial members. |
| Author Guidelines | Instructions on manuscript preparation and ethics. |
| Peer Review Policy | Review model and evaluation process. |
| Publication Ethics | COPE-compliant policy recommended. |
| Copyright & Licensing | Clearly stated licensing terms (Creative Commons preferred). |
| Contact Information | Designated editorial contact with institutional email. |
| Archive Access | Access to past issues in full-text format (PDF or HTML). |
Including a digital preservation strategy (e.g., LOCKSS or Portico) is strongly recommended.
Step 3: Prepare Strong Metadata and Articles
Consistent formatting and complete metadata increase your chances of approval. Ensure:
- English-language abstracts and relevant keywords
- Author names with institutional affiliations (ORCID optional)
- Standardized references (APA, AMA, or your journal’s chosen format)
- Citation links with CrossRef DOIs
- Complete article metadata (volume, issue, page range)
All content should be original, peer-reviewed, well-formatted, and free from duplication or plagiarism. Use of JATS XML for metadata is optional but can aid integration.
Step 4: Submit Your Journal for Review
EBSCO does not use an automated application portal. To submit, send an inquiry via email or contact your regional representative.
Where to Apply:
- Email: journals@ebsco.com
- Include:
- Journal name and URL
- ISSNs for print and online editions
- Publisher information
- Editorial scope and intended readership
- Publishing frequency and peer review model
- Sample articles or links to recent issues
Step 5: Evaluation Process
The evaluation typically takes 2–4 months and includes:
| Evaluation Area | Focus |
|---|---|
| Editorial Quality | Peer review rigor, relevance, and editorial credentials. |
| Metadata Structure | Consistency, formatting, and indexing compatibility. |
| Subject Fit | Alignment with EBSCO’s content areas. |
| Production Quality | Grammar, design, layout, and article presentation. |
| Website Usability | Navigation, access to content, and mobile compatibility. |
Step 6: Indexing Integration and Maintenance
If accepted, your journal may be added to one or more abstracted or full-text databases. You’ll be asked to:
- Deliver content regularly via XML, FTP, or API
- Maintain website and publication schedule
- Sign a non-exclusive license agreement for distribution
There are no application fees, and indexing terms are negotiated individually with publishers.
WebTa Publishing Support
WebTa Publishing offers full support for journals preparing for EBSCO indexing. Our services include:
- Metadata and website audit
- Policy alignment (peer review, ethics)
- XML production and DOI integration
- Journal packaging for submission
- Ongoing consultancy and technical support
Final Thoughts
Inclusion in EBSCO improves the accessibility, trustworthiness, and impact of your journal. It supports your visibility across academic institutions and positions your publication for broader indexing opportunities.
Benefits of EBSCO Indexing
- Access to global academic readership
- Integration with trusted university and research networks
- Stronger author engagement and content recognition
- Enhanced credibility with libraries, funders, and institutions
Get Started
Contact WebTa Publishing to request a pre-evaluation or to receive expert assistance with your EBSCO submission strategy. Let us help increase your journal’s reach and professional standing.