AFNS is an open access journal, sustained by Article Processing Charges (APCs). These fees support peer review, editorial management, digital hosting, indexing, and long-term archiving. This Charges Policy ensures transparency in costs and fairness in application, reflecting our belief that financial considerations should never become a barrier to responsible publishing.

Waivers and Discounts

AFNS offers partial or full waivers for authors from low- and middle-income countries, as defined by the World Bank. Waivers may also be considered for early-career researchers or authors lacking institutional support. Waiver requests must be submitted during manuscript submission and are decided transparently by the editorial office.

Payment Methods

APCs can be paid via secure online payment systems or institutional transfer. Payment instructions are sent after acceptance. Invoices include full details for institutional reimbursements or grant-related claims.

Refunds

Refunds are governed by the Refund Policy. In general, APCs are non-refundable once an article is published, but duplicate payments or errors are corrected promptly.

Why Charges Matter

APCs make it possible to maintain the quality and openness of AFNS without subscription barriers. They fund peer review management, DOI registration, digital preservation, and continuous platform improvements. In this way, APCs sustain a publishing model that keeps research accessible to all.

Conclusion

This Charges Policy reflects a balance: covering essential publishing costs while ensuring flexibility for authors who may face financial barriers. Transparency, fairness, and openness guide our approach, ensuring that no valuable research is excluded due to inability to pay.