How to Apply for ISBN in India (Simple Step-by-Step Guide)

In India, the most significant thing to have when publishing a book, whether it's your first novel or poetry collection, research or academic work, will be an ISBN for your book. 

A lot of authors who are new to this have questions and don't know how to navigate through this process. 

Some of the questions that come up frequently include "Where do I apply for an ISBN in India?", "Is there any charge for it?", and "How long will it take?". 

This blog is going to help you through each step of the ISBN application process in a straightforward, easy-to-understand, and practical manner so that you will be able to understand how to apply, what documentation will be required, and how to prevent any delays. 

What Is an ISBN and Why It Matters? 

Prior to examining the steps involved, we will take a moment to explain what an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is. 

An ISBN is a specific number that is given to each edition of a book (hardcover, paperback, e-book, etc.) 

An ISBN will allow the following: 

-> Will allow libraries the ability to catalogue your book 

-> Will enable online retailers (like Amazon) to be able to list your book 

-> Will allow bookstores to keep track of inventory levels 

-> Will allow readers the ability to know what edition they are getting 

-> Will allow publishers the ability to maintain record keeping of their books accurately. 

Simply put: 

If you plan to sell a book, you will need to obtain an ISBN number. 

Where to Apply: ISBN Application in India 

In India, the Raja Rammohun Roy National Agency for ISBN under the Ministry of Education assigns ISBNs. 

This is the only authorized and official government entity to do so. 

What’s even better? 

-> ISBNs are completely free in India. 

While many international publishers charge a fee for their ISBNs, Indian writers do not. 

How to Apply for ISBN in India (Step-by-Step Process) 

Below is the latest and simple guide to follow when applying for the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) as an author or publisher. 

Step 1: Visit the Official ISBN Portal 

This is where you create your login profile and provide your personal information. 

Step 2: Create Your Account 

You must include the following information: 

-> First name 

-> Last name 

-> Email address 

-> Phone number 

-> Mailing address 

-> Login password 

Once your profile is created, you will need to verify it using your email. 

Step 3: Decide Whether You Need a Single ISBN or Bulk ISBNs 

-> You would be an individual author applying for an ISBN with one of your books. 

-> If you are a publishing company/house, you will have multiple ISBNS (bulk). 

-> Most authors who apply by themselves will probably purchase a single ISBN. 

Step 4: Fill Out the ISBN Application Form 

The information you will enter will include: 

-> Title of book 

-> Author(s) 

-> Book type: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, educational, etc. 

-> Language 

-> Format: hardcover, paperback, etc. 

-> Year of publishing 

-> Publisher (if self-published, your name will show) 

Be certain all information is accurate as you cannot make any changes after the ISBN is assigned to it. 

Step 5: Upload Required Documents 

Typically, upload the following: 

-> Front cover of the book (Draft or conceptual cover accepted) 

-> Proof of Identity (Author Only) 

-> Proof of Publication (Only if you’re a publishing company) 

-> A sample manuscript or synopsis. 

If an acceptable document does not accompany the application or if the document is unclear, the process will either be delayed or outright rejected. 

Step 6: Submit the Form 

After filling in all of the requested information and uploading all of the required documents, you should submit the application and receive a confirmation email once it is received. 

Step 7: Wait for Approval 

On average, processing time for an application takes approximately 7 to 15 working days to review and approve (the application may take longer to process if a large number of applications are currently being processed). 

After your ISBN has been approved, you will receive your ISBN in your email address that has already been registered during the application process. 

And that’s it; you have successfully submitted your book to the publishing process. 

Tips to Avoid ISBN Application Delays 

Below are a few suggestions for keeping the ISBN Application Process unencumbered: 

-> Confirm the accurate title of the book you will print. 

A small misprint could necessitate reapplication for a new ISBN later. 

-> Provide a high-quality cover file. 

Blurry images, low-resolution photographs, or scanned screenshots may result in an ISBN being rejected. 

-> Clearly identify the correct physical format 

Whether paperback, hardcover, or E-book, each physical format of your book requires an ISBN of its own. 

-> Be consistent with your author's name 

Your author's name must appear exactly as it does on your book cover. 

-> Access the ISBN application portal during business hours. 

Most of the technical issues associated with the ISBN application process occur at night or on weekends.  

Is ISBN Really Free in India? 

Yes - the process for applying for an ISBN in India is free of charge. 

Many authors mistakenly believe publishers charge to sell them as a premium service, but actually, they provide the ISBN free of charge. 

Publishers provide: 

-> Book Design 

-> Editing 

-> Book Formatting 

-> Publishing services 

-> Distribution. 

The ISBN will ALWAYS be provided free of charge through the Indian ISBN agency. 

Who Should Apply for ISBN? 

If you fall into one of the categories below, you need to get an ISBN: 

-> Self-Published Author 

-> New Author 

-> Publisher 

-> Research Scholar 

-> Academic Publishing Institution (e.g., a university) 

-> Author Publishing eBooks and/or Paperbacks 

You will need an ISBN to sell your books both online and offline. 

How Many ISBNs Do You Need? 

You will require an ISBN for each format of your book. For example, an eBook will require one ISBN, a paperback will require another, a hardcover will require another, and a revised edition will also require a new ISBN. You cannot use the same ISBN for different formats of the same title. 

Final Thoughts: Applying for ISBN in India is Easy and Free 

Applying for ISBN in India may appear to be very complex at the outset; however, once you know what steps you need to complete, applying for ISBN becomes straightforward and easy to complete. 

Keep in mind: 

1. This covered the complete process for applying for ISBN in India. 

2. The process of applying for ISBN in India is clearly outlined, including how to complete an application online and what documents are needed. 

3. In India, ISBN is free. 

4. As mentioned previously, the following are 

5. How to apply for ISBN in India 

6. What documents to submit 

7. How long it takes to receive approval 

When you are ready to publish your book, this should be at the top of your list of things to do before publishing your book.