How to access the API platform
Important note on upcoming changes to the API platform
On 29th July 2026, we will be migrating our API platform to a new data source. While this should improve performance and reliability for our users, it will also include some changes which may require certain adjustments to existing integrations. Please read this documentation carefully and get in touch with us if you have any questions or concerns.
To help users make the most of the Jisc open policy finder data, we offer an API platform that allows programmatic access to our journal, publisher and funder records.
This API platform will replace the legacy Sherpa Services API. All existing users of the legacy API have been migrated to the new API platform.
The new API platform can be accessed at https://api.openpolicyfinder.jisc.ac.uk.
Detailed documentation on how to make queries to the new API platform can be found in our API documentation.
To make requests to the API, users are required to have a valid, active API key. Information on how to obtain an API key for the new platform can be found in the How to request a new API key guide.
Note
On the Sherpa Services API, keys were passed in query parameters. On the new API platform, keys must be passed in request headers under the name `x-api-key`.
Note
We are currently NOT accepting requests for new API keys until the migration period for existing users is complete at the end of July 2026.
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