Top Scopus Indexed AI Journals for Indian PhD Scholars (Low APC 2026)

🤖 Best AI Focused Journals with Budget-Friendly Fees

Publishing in a reputable, peer-reviewed, Scopus indexed AI journal with a low publication fee (APC) or no APC is ideal for Indian PhD scholars aiming for global visibility, strong citation impact, and rapid publication in 2026.

There are many options available where either no APC is charged or the APC is minimal — helping researchers avoid high costs while maintaining solid academic credibility in the field of artificial intelligence and machine learning. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

📍 No-APC Scopus Indexed AI Journals (Publish for Free)

Several journals indexed in Scopus do not charge APC and provide quality publication outlets in AI and related subfields. These are excellent for Indian PhD scholars who prefer zero publication fees without compromising indexing standards. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

• Journal of Machine Learning Research – Peer reviewed and open access, indexed in Scopus, no APC charged. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• Journal of Artificial Intelligence Research (JAIR) – Covers all core AI research topics, free to publish. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Chinese Journal of Intelligent Science and Technology – AI research focus, Scopus indexed, no APC. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• International Journal of Computing and Digital Systems – Broad computing and AI topics, Scopus indexed, free APC. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

These journals are great starting points for publishing AI research from India without financial burden and are ideal for PhD scholars aiming for indexed publication. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

📈 Low APC Scopus Indexed Journals to Consider

Some Scopus indexed journals may charge a modest APC but remain budget-friendly compared to high-cost international journals. Always verify on the journal’s official site before submission for exact APC details and eligibility for waivers.

• International Journal of Computer Science and Engineering — Often indexed in Scopus with relatively moderate APCs (varies by publisher). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• International Journal of Computer Science Engineering Techniques (IJCSE) — Scopus indexed, UGC approved, peer reviewed, typically low APC. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Many multidisciplinary Scopus indexed journals in computer science also include strong AI topics and may offer competitive APC options. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

📚 Tips for Indian PhD Scholars

• Check the journal’s indexing in Scopus and confirm current APC policies from the official site before submission.
• Consider open access or no-APC journals for maximum affordability.
• If a low APC is charged, verify if waivers or discounts are available for Indian researchers.
• Submit high-quality AI and ML manuscripts to enhance acceptance chances and global citation impact.

By choosing the right mix of no APC and low APC Scopus indexed AI journals, Indian PhD scholars can publish their research affordably while achieving strong global recognition in 2026.