An embargo in ScholarsArchive@OSU allows you to restrict access to your content for a specific period of time. Embargoes are usually set so the author can take some other action before their item is available on the web, such as publishing an article or managing the patent process.

The process for selecting an embargo differs based on the type of document you are uploading. For example, setting an embargo on a Faculty Article requires only that the uploader select the embargo they wish to use, while setting an embargo on a Graduate Thesis requires approval of the Graduate School.

In some cases, we offer exceptions to normal embargoes and restrict access permanently. Certain programs (e.g. the MFA program) lend themselves to visibility exceptions, but given the mission of ScholarsArchive@OSU as an open repository, access exceptions are rarely offered. However, they can be requested from scholarsarchive [at] oregonstate.edu.

► Full details about visibility levels and the ScholarsArchive@OSU Terms of Use are listed in the Deposit Agreement.

1. Public -- No Embargo

• Item openly available to worldwide community.
• Metadata (author, title, abstract, etc.) openly available to worldwide community.

2. Oregon State University Embargo -- Embargo Period: generally six months to two years

• Item openly available to OSU Community only.
• Metadata (author, title, abstract, etc.) openly available to worldwide community.
• Item openly available to worldwide community after embargo period expires.

3. Private Embargo -- Embargo Period: dependent on situation

• Item completely hidden from everyone but ScholarsArchive@OSU Administrators.
• Metadata other than author and title (abstract, etc.) completely hidden from everyone but ScholarsArchive@OSU Administrators.
• Item and metadata openly available to worldwide community after embargo period expires.

If you have any questions about embargoes, contact us here or email

scholarsarchive [at] oregonstate.edu