Is the impact factor of a journal related to the probability of a submission being accepted?

A journal's impact factor exhibits a negative correlation with submission acceptance probability, meaning journals with higher impact factors typically have lower acceptance rates. This association arises from greater selectivity driven by intense competition and reputation. Key principles involve peer review rigor and manuscript alignment. Journals with elevated impact factors attract more submissions, necessitating stringent evaluation criteria that prioritize novelty and methodological soundness. The scope applies broadly across disciplines but varies significantly—specialized or emerging fields may show weaker correlations. Necessary conditions include journal prestige and submission volume, while precautions note that acceptance ultimately depends on manuscript quality and relevance, not impact factor alone, as exceptions exist for newer or open-access venues. This relationship informs authors' strategic journal selection, enhancing research dissemination efficiency and career advancement opportunities. It underscores impact factors' role in evaluating institutional publishing outcomes and allocating academic resources effectively.