Applied Physics Letters Impact Factor 2026: 3.6 | Field Ranking
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Quick answer
Applied Physics Letters has an impact factor of 3.6 (2024 JCR, Q2). Published by AIP Publishing, ranked 67/187. Acceptance rate approximately 25-30%. First decision typically within 14-21 days.
Applied Physics Letters has an impact factor of 3.6 in 2024 (JCR data released June 2025). This is a Q2 journal, ranked 67/187 in physics research.
If you're deciding whether to submit there, the raw IF number only tells part of the story. Here's what the trend means, how Applied Physics Letters compares to similar journals, and what you should realistically expect from a submission.
What is the Applied Physics Letters Impact Factor?
The impact factor measures how often articles published in the previous two years were cited during the current year. For Applied Physics Letters' 2024 IF:
- Numerator: total citations in 2024 to articles published in 2022 and 2023
- Denominator: total citable articles published in 2022 and 2023
- Result: 3.6
Clarivate releases updated IFs annually, usually in June. The 2024 impact factor became available in June 2025.
Key Metrics at a Glance
Metric | Value |
|---|---|
2024 Impact Factor | 3.6 |
5-Year Impact Factor | 3.6 |
JCR Quartile | Q2 |
Field Ranking | 67/187 |
Acceptance Rate | 25-30% |
Article Processing Charge | $2,750 |
Avg. Time to Decision | 14-21 days |
Publisher | AIP Publishing |
What This Impact Factor Means
An IF of 3.6 positions Applied Physics Letters as a Q2 journal in physics research. Q2 journals represent the 25-50% range of citation impact in their category, meaning it's a mid-tier publication with solid standing.
The journal uses standard peer review. Desk rejection rates typically run 20-25%, indicating moderate editorial screening. Among papers that go to peer review, the 25-30% overall acceptance rate means actual post-review acceptance is somewhat lower.
Realistic Submission Expectations
Before submitting to Applied Physics Letters, consider:
- Scope alignment: Compare your draft with 3-4 recent papers. Applied physics results, novel devices, materials characterization, and engineering applications are typical topics.
- Citation potential: An IF of 3.6 reflects moderate citation rates in physics. Your paper's impact depends on its relevance to the applied physics community.
- Timeline: 14-21 days to first decision is relatively fast. Desk rejections come in 1-2 weeks. Accepted papers usually need revisions, adding 4-6 weeks total.
- Cost: $2,750 is reasonable for an AIP journal. Check with your institution for any agreements.
Should You Submit to Applied Physics Letters?
Yes if:
- Your applied physics work is original and experimentally solid
- You've compared with recent papers in the journal
- The scope aligns with applied physics and engineering
- You need relatively fast publication
No if:
- You're seeking a top-tier physics venue (try Nature Physics, Physical Review Letters)
- Your work is primarily theoretical without applications
- Cost is prohibitive
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