For SCI indexed journals, the acceptance timeline is generally longer because these journals maintain stricter peer review standards, higher rejection rates, and multiple layers of editorial scrutiny. From the date of submission, the initial editorial screening usually takes one to four weeks. If the paper passes this stage, it enters peer review, which typically takes three to five months. In many cases, at least one major or minor revision round is required, adding another one to three months. As a result, the realistic time from initial submission to final acceptance in SCI journals usually ranges from six to twelve months. For high-impact Q1 SCI journals, this timeline can extend to twelve to eighteen months, especially if multiple revision cycles are involved.
Scopus indexed journals generally have faster processing times compared to SCI journals, though this varies widely depending on the publisher and journal quality. Initial editorial screening in Scopus journals often takes one to three weeks. The peer review process commonly takes two to four months. If revisions are required, which is common, the total additional time is usually one to two months. In realistic scenarios, Scopus journal acceptance typically occurs within three to six months. Well-managed Scopus journals, especially applied or interdisciplinary ones, may accept papers within two to four months if the manuscript is strong and reviewer comments are minor.
It is important to understand that “fast acceptance” does not mean low quality. Some Scopus journals are efficient because they have large reviewer pools, streamlined editorial systems, and frequent publication schedules. However, extremely fast acceptance timelines such as two to three weeks are usually a warning sign of poor peer review or predatory practices.
Another key factor influencing acceptance time is the quality of the initial submission. Manuscripts that strictly match the journal scope, have low similarity, strong methodology, and clear results often move faster through both SCI and Scopus review processes. Papers requiring major revisions or language corrections experience significantly longer timelines regardless of indexing.
Special issues can reduce acceptance time in both SCI and Scopus journals, often by one to two months, because guest editors actively manage deadlines. However, this advantage applies only to legitimate special issues from reputable publishers.
In summary, a realistic expectation is that SCI journal acceptance typically takes six to twelve months, while Scopus journal acceptance usually takes three to six months. Planning research timelines with these expectations helps avoid frustration and prevents unethical shortcuts such as simultaneous submissions.