Publications in scientific journals are an indispensable tool for modern scientists. They are not only an effective tool for strengthening a researcher's portfolio, but also a mandatory requirement for admission to thesis defence. In addition to the international databases Scopus and Web of Science, scientists can also publish in Azerbaijan's Higher Attestation Commission journals. What type of publications are these, and what are they for? Let's talk about this in today's article.
Briefly about the Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan and its journals
The Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan (Ali Attestasiya Komissiyası) is the Higher Attestation Commission under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. It is the central state body that regulates and controls the training and attestation of highly qualified scientific and pedagogical personnel.
In addition, the Higher Attestation Commission is responsible for:
- accreditation of scientific institutions
- organisation of thesis defence
- recognition of foreign scientific degrees (nostrification)
- recommendation of journals for publication of scientific research results
The Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan regularly compiles and publishes a list of scientific periodicals in which it is recommended to publish the main results of dissertations and scientific articles. This list covers various scientific fields: from mathematics, mechanics, and physics to pedagogy, literary studies, history, and many others.
Journals on this list can be both local and international, provided that the Higher Attestation Commission has approved them for the publication of research results. The list of recommended publications is regularly updated and published on the website of the Higher Attestation Commission, and the full list of journals valid as of 2026 can be found at this link.
Why do scientists need to publish in journals approved by the Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan?
Publications in journals recommended by the Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan play a key role in the professional development of scientists. Their significance is not limited to a formal requirement – they are an important element of the state attestation system and confirmation of scientific qualifications.
1. Admission to thesis defence
In order for a scientist to be admitted to thesis defence, they must prepare a certain number of publications. According to the “Regulations on the Awarding of Academic Degrees”, a candidate for a PhD degree must have at least five scientific papers reflecting the results of their dissertation research, at least one of which must be published in a journal indexed in international scientometrics databases.
To obtain a Doctor of Sciences degree, a requirement has been established for at least 15 scientific papers, of which at least three must be in internationally indexed publications.
Thus, in addition to the mandatory number of publications in journals indexed in international databases, a scientist may also publish in publications from the Higher Attestation Commission list.
2. Official recognition of research results
Publication in a recommended journal means that the results have undergone scientific review and meet established standards. For government agencies, universities, and certification bodies, such publications are confirmation of the scientific validity of the work.
This is especially important when:
- participating in competitions for academic positions
- undergoing re-certification
- awarding academic titles
3. Building academic reputation
Journals from the HAC list often have a clear specialisation in scientific fields, so publications in them help scientists to establish themselves in a specific field, become recognised in the professional community of Azerbaijan and expand their circle of scientific contacts.
For young researchers, this can be the first step towards building their own academic profile and gaining experience for future publications in journals indexed in international databases such as Scopus and Web of Science.
4. Approval of research results
Publication in journals from the list of the Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan allows for the prompt publication of key research results and receipt of feedback from national experts. This helps to confirm the scientific novelty and relevance of the research in the Azerbaijani scientific community, as well as contributes to the formation of the academic reputation of the scientist at the local level.
The journals of the Higher Attestation Commission of Azerbaijan are not just a formal requirement, but an important element of the national system of quality assurance in science. They guarantee that research meets established standards, create a transparent certification mechanism, and help scientists build their professional careers.
Scientific Publications is ready to help you publish in Azerbaijan's Higher Attestation Commission journals. Our specialists with many years of experience will select the appropriate publication for you, check the correctness of the article's formatting, and accompany you through all stages of the publication process. Would you like to receive a free consultation? Fill out the form below, and our manager will contact you shortly. Together to new scientific achievements!
