Create an ISBN
What is an ISBN?
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique identifier used to distinguish books, reports, or conference materials. An ISBN is specific to one edition and format. If your work is available in multiple formats (for example, print and e-book), each format requires its own ISBN.
If you’re publishing as part of your CQUniversity role or research, you can request a free ISBN through the Library.
Benefits of an ISBN
An ISBN is not mandatory but has many benefits:
- Increase discoverability – makes your work easier to find and it is internationally recognised.
- Support citations and tracking – ensures that your publication can be correctly cited and linked to you for easier citations and metrics tracking.
- Establish credibility and reputation – signals that your publication is a scholarly, professional research output.
- Facilitate sharing – helps your work reach a wider audience and be more easily shared across platforms and repositories.
How to get an ISBN
CQUniversity staff and researchers can request an ISBN free of charge for eligible publications.
Check eligibility
Confirm that your publication is eligible for a CQUniversity ISBN.
ISBNs can be assigned to books, reports or conference papers, produced or published by CQUniversity.
Items intended for commercial publication through an external publisher should receive an ISBN from that publisher.
Prepare your details
Required details needed for request:
- Publication title and subtitle
- PDF of cover page/image
- Author(s), editor(s) or other contributors and their role
- Medium (Audio, e-book or print)
- Format
- Genre
- Publication date
- Distribution status
- Target audience
- Price
Submit a request
Complete the ISBN request form.
The completed form is automatically sent to the library. An ISBN will be sent to you within 7-10 business days.
