ISSN Number

Overview

An International Standard Serial Number (ISSN) is an eight-digit identifier for serial publications such as journals, magazines, newspapers, and periodicals in print or electronic form. In India, ISSNs are assigned by the ISSN National Centre hosted at the CSIR National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research in New Delhi. The centre works under the framework of the ISSN International Centre based in Paris. Each medium of a serial, print and online, receives a separate ISSN.

Objective

To obtain a standard identifier for a serial publication so it can be uniquely referenced and catalogued.

Characteristics

• An eight-digit standard identifier for serial publications
• Assigned in India by the ISSN National Centre at CSIR-NIScPR
• Coordinated globally by the ISSN International Centre, Paris
• Separate numbers issued for print and electronic versions
• Applies to journals, magazines, newspapers, and other periodicals

Eligibility

• Publishers of serial publications issued at regular or stated intervals
• Academic institutions, societies, and organisations publishing journals
• Print and electronic periodicals with a defined title
• Publications that intend to continue over successive issues

Governing law

• ISSN National Centre for India (CSIR-NIScPR)
• ISSN International Centre, Paris
• Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

The process

1. 1
   Prepare title details

   Gather the serial title, publisher details, medium, and publishing frequency.

2. 2
   Submit the application

   Apply to the ISSN National Centre for India with the required publication information.

3. 3
   Provide a sample

   Share a sample issue or masthead of the serial as requested by the centre.

4. 4
   Assessment

   The centre reviews the details and confirms the serial nature of the publication.

5. 5
   ISSN assigned

   The ISSN is allotted and communicated for printing on the publication.

Documents required

• Title and details of the serial publication
• Publisher name and address
• Publishing frequency and medium (print or online)
• Sample issue, cover, or masthead
• Contact details of the applicant

Benefits

• A unique standard identifier for the serial
• Easier cataloguing, indexing, and citation of the publication
• Clear distinction between print and electronic editions
• Improved discoverability in libraries and databases
• Recognition of the publication within the global serials system

Frequently asked questions