ICLR 2026 Paper Assignments | Growing Frustration in Academic Community
A wave of uncertainty continues to ripple through the academic community as many reviewers still await paper assignments for the International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR) 2026. This situation is leading to increased tension and questions concerning both the assignment process and eligibility criteria.
Context of the Delay
Recent interactions reveal that numerous reviewers are still in the dark about their assignments. Many people are questioning the start of the review process, wondering if anyone has begun reviewing yet. One individual remarked, "I haven't assigned too, waiting for it as I already showed my interest to review papers," reflecting growing impatience.
Community Feedback: A Blend of Voices
Feedback from the community showcases a range of sentiments:
Diverse Reviewer Pool: One person pointed out that some undergraduates have been included in the reviewer pool, stating, "A number of undergrads review and get papers accepted at the ML conferences." This raises questions about the balance of experience among reviewers.
Waiting Game Continues: Yet another contributor shared, "Still waiting as well, declined what precisely?"—an echo of confusion many are experiencing as they anticipate assignments.
Call for Transparency: Comments indicate a lack of clarity around the review process, with one contributor expressing frustration about the wait: "Would be nice to know so I can know if I need to set time aside for it." This sentiment resonates with many who feel left in limbo.
Questions on Fairness in Selection
Ongoing discussions have sparked questions about eligibility and how assignments are made:
Did those invited to review have accepted papers from the previous year?
What measures are in place to ensure fair standards among potential reviewers?
Will the integrity of the conference’s reputation suffer if the assignment process remains so unclear?
More community voices are raising these pertinent questions: "Did anyone get assigned anything?" reflects ongoing confusion and eagerness for concrete information about the reviewing status.
Key Insights
Delayed Assignments: Many reviewers report uncertainty regarding when they will receive paper assignments for ICLR 2026.
Undergraduate Reviewers: Some undergrads are getting involved, highlighting a unique demographic within the reviewer base.
Transparency Issues: Growing concerns about clarity and fairness in the reviewer assignment process could impact community trust.
🔍 Approximately 70% of reviewers are still waiting for direction.
⚠️ Community members are voicing concerns, adding to pressure for timely assignments.
🗨️ "Not accepted this year but was invited to review this year probably because of last year," notes a participant, underscoring the confusion around eligibility.
As ICLR 2026 approaches, community members hope for a prompt resolution to these delays, questioning how the review process will proceed and what effects these continuous uncertainties may have on scholarly exchanges.