Multi-categoryA Journal in Two Categories — Two Quartiles

IJMS is a textbook example of why a single “quartile” claim can mislead. It is indexed in more than one Web of Science category, and it ranks differently in each:

Same journal, same year, two quartiles. When IJMS is described as “Q1,” that refers to Biochemistry & Molecular Biology — always check the category that matches your paper.

Peer comparisonAmong MDPI Molecular Journals

Within MDPI’s family of molecular- and life-science journals, IJMS sits mid-pack by Impact Factor:

ReputationIs IJMS a Good Journal?

IJMS is indexed in Web of Science (SCIE) and Scopus, holds a Q1 ranking in its primary category, and carries a solid Impact Factor — all signals of a legitimate, established journal. It is fully open access, which means an article-processing charge (APC) applies; confirm the current fee on the journal’s official site.

ScopeWhat IJMS Publishes

IJMS publishes research across molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, molecular medicine, and related chemistry — a deliberately broad remit that helps explain its very large output and citation volume. Its broad scope is also why it appears in both a biology and a chemistry category, each with its own quartile.

At a glanceKey Facts

Key Takeaways

FAQPeople also ask

What is the impact factor of IJMS?

The International Journal of Molecular Sciences has a 2025 Journal Impact Factor of 5.6 in the latest Journal Citation Reports (Clarivate).

Is IJMS Q1 or Q2?

Both, depending on the category. In the 2025 JCR it is Q1 in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Q2 in Chemistry, Multidisciplinary.

Is IJMS a good journal or is it predatory?

IJMS is a legitimate, well-established journal — not predatory. It’s indexed in both Web of Science and Scopus, holds a Q1 ranking in its main category, and uses standard peer review.

Does IJMS charge a publication fee?

Yes. IJMS is fully open access, so an article-processing charge (APC) applies if your paper is accepted. Check the current amount on the journal’s official MDPI page before submitting.

Is IJMS indexed in Scopus and Web of Science?

Yes. IJMS is indexed in Web of Science (Science Citation Index Expanded) and in Scopus, which is why it carries both a JCR Impact Factor and Scopus-based metrics.

SourcesReferences & further reading

• Clarivate — Journal Citation Reports
• International Journal of Molecular Sciences (MDPI)
• Scopus Sources

SEO & Publishing Data

Focus keyword: IJMS Impact Factor

Meta description: IJMS Impact Factor 2025 (5.6), quartile rankings, and key facts about MDPI’s flagship molecular sciences journal.

SEO keyword variations: IJMS impact factor, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI IJMS quartile, IJMS Q1 Q2, IJMS Scopus indexed

Deep DiveUnderstanding IJMS’s Dual Quartile Ranking

IJMS’s Q1 ranking in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Q2 in Chemistry, Multidisciplinary reflects how quartile rankings depend on subject category. Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is a highly competitive field with many high-impact journals; being Q1 there is significant. Chemistry, Multidisciplinary is a broader category with different citation dynamics.

This dual ranking is common for interdisciplinary journals. When evaluating IJMS for your submission, consider which category matters most for your institution’s evaluation criteria. Some universities prioritize the best quartile; others use a weighted average.

Pro TipsPublishing Successfully in IJMS

1. Match your paper to IJMS’s scope. The journal emphasizes molecular mechanisms and their biological relevance. Purely theoretical or computational papers without experimental validation face higher rejection rates.

2. Take advantage of the fast timeline. IJMS typically provides first decisions within 2-3 weeks. This makes it suitable for researchers facing publication deadlines for theses, grant renewals, or tenure applications.

3. Budget for the APC. As an MDPI journal, IJMS charges an APC. Check current rates on the journal website and confirm whether your institution has an MDPI membership discount.

4. Consider special issues. IJMS publishes numerous guest-edited special issues that may have broader scope and faster handling than regular submissions.

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Is IJMS a predatory journal?

No. IJMS is indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. It has a verified 2025 Impact Factor of 5.6 published by Clarivate in the JCR.

How does IJMS compare to other MDPI journals?

IJMS is one of MDPI’s most established and highly-cited journals. Its Impact Factor of 5.6 places it among the stronger MDPI titles, significantly above the publisher’s median.

What is the acceptance rate of IJMS?

IJMS does not publish official acceptance rates, but estimates suggest approximately 40-50% for regular submissions. Rigorous technical review and scope fit are the main criteria.

Does IJMS have a page limit?

No, IJMS does not enforce strict page limits. However, concise papers (under 10,000 words) tend to receive faster editorial decisions.

Is IJMS Q1 in all categories?

No. IJMS is Q1 in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology but Q2 in Chemistry, Multidisciplinary. Always specify which category when citing quartile rankings.