UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the primary public body responsible for funding research and innovation across the United Kingdom, has confirmed plans to phase out support for hybrid open access publishing. The shift, expected to take full effect in the 2028-29 financial year, marks a significant evolution in how publicly funded research reaches readers and builds on earlier policy developments aimed at accelerating open science.

Understanding the Current UKRI Open Access Framework

Since April 2022, UKRI has required immediate open access for peer-reviewed research articles acknowledging its funding. Researchers can comply through two main routes. Route one involves publishing the version of record immediately open access in a fully open access journal or platform, typically with a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) licence. Route two allows publication in a subscription journal followed by immediate deposit of the author’s accepted manuscript in a repository, again under a CC BY licence with no embargo permitted.

Funding for article processing charges (APCs) has historically been available through block grants allocated to eligible research organisations. These grants support costs only for fully open access journals or hybrid journals participating in approved transitional (or transformative) agreements negotiated by Jisc on behalf of the UK sector. Transitional agreements aim to shift subscription spending toward open access while providing value for money and supporting a managed transition for publishers.

The 2028-29 Phase-Out Announcement

In late April 2026, UKRI clarified that it will no longer provide funding for open access costs in hybrid journals from 2028-29, even when those journals form part of transitional agreements. The policy update emphasises that future block grant funding will focus exclusively on fully open access publishing routes. Research organisations and Jisc are collaborating with UKRI to ensure a smooth implementation, including clear guidance for researchers ahead of the change.

This decision builds on the existing framework while accelerating the move toward fully open access models. It reflects broader international trends, including alignment with initiatives such as Plan S, and responds to feedback on the pace of transition in scholarly publishing.

Impacts on UK Universities and Research Institutions

Universities across the United Kingdom, from Russell Group members such as the University of Oxford and Imperial College London to newer institutions, will need to adapt their open access strategies. Block grants currently help cover APCs; the phase-out will require greater reliance on fully open access venues or the green route via repositories. Research organisations may face increased administrative demands as they review journal options and negotiate new agreements.

Many institutions already participate in Jisc-managed transitional deals covering thousands of journals. The upcoming change will likely prompt renewed negotiations focused on fully open access outcomes. Smaller or specialist institutions with tighter budgets could experience particular pressure, prompting calls for additional sector-wide support during the transition period.

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Perspectives from Researchers and Academics

Researchers funded by UKRI councils, including the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Medical Research Council (MRC), have expressed a mix of support and concern. Many welcome the clarity and the push toward sustainable open access models that maximise visibility and reuse of findings. Others highlight practical challenges, such as identifying suitable fully open access journals in niche fields or managing the administrative burden of repository deposits.

Early-career researchers and those in disciplines with fewer fully open access options may require targeted support. UKRI has indicated it will work with research organisations to provide guidance and explore exceptions where necessary, ensuring the policy does not inadvertently disadvantage particular fields or career stages.

Publisher and Sector Responses

The Publishers Association has issued a statement acknowledging the announcement while stressing the need for a measured transition that supports both innovation and sustainability in scholarly communication. Some publishers are accelerating development of fully open access offerings and new transformative models that align with the forthcoming requirements.

Jisc continues to play a central role, maintaining tools such as the transitional agreement look-up and the Journal Checker Tool that help researchers identify compliant options. Sector bodies emphasise that the change represents an opportunity to strengthen the UK’s position in global open research while maintaining high standards of peer review and editorial quality.

Alternatives and Compliance Pathways

Researchers will retain strong options under the updated framework. Fully open access journals and platforms remain fully supported where eligible. The green route—publishing in a subscription journal and depositing the accepted manuscript in a repository—continues to offer a no-cost compliance path for many, provided licensing requirements are met at submission.

Institutions are encouraged to strengthen repository infrastructure and promote preprint sharing where appropriate. UKRI also continues to support data access statements and encourages the use of subject repositories such as Europe PubMed Central for biomedical research funded by BBSRC or MRC.

Future Outlook for UK Research Publishing

The phase-out aligns with long-term goals of making UK-funded research freely available and reusable worldwide. By 2029, the expectation is that the majority of UKRI-supported articles will appear in fully open access venues or through robust repository routes. This shift is anticipated to enhance the global reach of British research, support collaboration, and contribute to addressing societal challenges through open science.

Continued dialogue between funders, universities, publishers, and researchers will be essential. UKRI has committed to monitoring implementation and refining guidance, ensuring the policy remains responsive to emerging needs in the higher education and research sectors.

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Practical Advice for Researchers and Institutions

Academics planning submissions in the coming years should consult the Journal Checker Tool early and discuss options with their institution’s open access team. Research organisations are advised to review current transitional agreements, forecast APC expenditure, and explore consortia deals that prioritise fully open access outcomes.

Training sessions on licensing, repository workflows, and identifying compliant journals can help embed best practice. By preparing now, the sector can turn the policy change into an opportunity for stronger open research cultures across UK higher education.