Fast-Track (Expedited Review) Option

We offer a Fast-Track review service for authors who need an accelerated review and publication process. This option is ideal for submissions involving time-sensitive findings, funding deadlines, promotion applications, or thesis requirements.

The benefits of the Fast-Track review option include receiving an initial editorial decision within 20 business days (excluding holidays), priority handling in the peer review and editorial workflow, and publication within 4 weeks after acceptance and final payment. This service is particularly helpful for authors with urgent academic or professional needs.

The Fast-Track fee is USD 500 (excl. 15% transfer fee), which is charged in addition to the standard Article Processing Charges (APC). Please note that the fee is non-refundable, except in cases where we fail to meet the 20-business-day editorial decision guarantee.

All Fast-Track review must first pass the initial editorial screening. Only manuscripts deemed suitable by the editor for external peer review will proceed under the Fast-Track review process. If a manuscript is desk-rejected during this initial screening, the Fast-Track fee will not be charged.

To support the timely process, authors who opt for Fast-Track are expected to respond to editorial and reviewer queries within 2–3 business days and to submit revisions promptly, preferably within 7 days. Delays in responses or revisions may result in the loss of Fast-Track benefits.

While Fast-Track accelerates the process, it does not guarantee acceptance. Manuscripts may still be rejected after peer review. The timeline also excludes major holidays and scheduled editorial office closures.

Authors can request Fast-Track by logging into the submission system and clicking “Add Discussion” on the manuscript submission page. Please send a message to the editor using the subject line “Fast-Track Review” to indicate your request. Once the manuscript passes the initial editorial screening, the author will be contacted with payment instructions and next steps.

For more information or questions about the Fast-Track process, please contact our editorial team at editorial@igcjournal.com.