Waiver Eligibility

Introduction

This policy outlines the criteria and process for granting waivers of publication fees for "Finance & Audit Research Archive letters". The Archive offers a platform for the rapid dissemination of high-quality research findings in the form of concise letters, making it particularly attractive for early-career researchers and those working on emerging topics. Recognizing the potential financial constraints faced by some authors, the Archive offers a waiver program to ensure equitable access to publication.

Eligibility Criteria

Waivers may be granted to authors who meet the following criteria:

• Financial hardship: Applicants must demonstrate genuine financial hardship that would make it difficult to pay the publication fee. This could include factors such as limited institutional funding, personal financial constraints, or belonging to a low-income country.
• Merit of the research: The submitted letter must be of high academic quality, making a significant contribution to the field of finance and/or auditing. The letter should be original, well-written, and address a relevant topic with clear implications for research and/or practice.
• Early-career status: Priority will be given to applications from early-career researchers, including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty members within the first five years of their appointment.
• Affiliation with developing countries: Authors affiliated with institutions in developing countries will be given additional consideration due to the potential for limited research funding in these regions.

Application Process

To apply for a waiver, authors should submit the following documents along with their manuscript:

• A completed waiver application form, outlining the reasons for requesting a waiver and providing supporting documentation for financial hardship (e.g., tax returns, funding letters).
• A letter of recommendation from a senior academic familiar with the applicant's work and financial circumstances.
• The complete manuscript for the Finance & Audit Research Archive letter.

Decision-Making Process

Waiver applications will be reviewed by a committee composed of senior academics in the field of finance and auditing. The committee will consider the eligibility criteria mentioned above, as well as the overall quality and potential impact of the submitted research. Decisions will be communicated to applicants within four weeks of submission.