SSC, UPSC, Banking Photo Requirements
Exact size and file requirements for competitive exams. Tips to avoid rejection. Stop guessing and start applying with confidence!
Important Note
These requirements are based on latest exam notifications (2025-26). Always verify with your specific exam's information brochure as requirements may change slightly.
📊 Complete Reference Table: All Major Exams
| Exam / Organization | Photo Dimensions | Photo Size | Signature Size | Background |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSC (CGL, CHSL, MTS) | 4.0 x 2.0 cm (520 x 260 px) | 20-50 KB | 10-20 KB | White / Light |
| UPSC Civil Services | 2.0 x 2.0 inches (350 x 350 px) | 20-300 KB | 20-100 KB | White / Light Grey |
| IBPS / Banking | 4.0 x 2.0 cm (520 x 260 px) | 20-50 KB | 10-20 KB | White |
| RRB (Railways) | 3.5 x 4.5 cm (420 x 540 px) | 20-50 KB | 10-20 KB | White |
| NEET (UG) | 4.0 x 3.0 cm (480 x 360 px) | 10-200 KB | 10-200 KB | White |
| JEE Main / Advanced | 3.5 x 4.5 cm (420 x 540 px) | 10-100 KB | 10-100 KB | White / Light |
| GATE | 2.0 x 2.0 inches (600 x 600 px) | 5-200 KB | 5-200 KB | White |
| CTET | 4.0 x 3.0 cm (480 x 360 px) | 10-100 KB | 10-100 KB | White |
* Pixel dimensions at 300 DPI. Most exams require JPG format only.
📝 Detailed Exam-by-Exam Requirements
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) CGL, CHSL, MTS, JE
Photograph
Dimensions: 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm
Pixels: 520 x 260 (approx)
File Size: 20 KB to 50 KB
Format: JPG only
Background: White / Light color
Signature
Dimensions: 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm
Pixels: 520 x 260 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 20 KB
Format: JPG only
Ink: Black on white paper
📝 Note: For SSC exams, name and date should be written below the photo for some posts. Photo should be recent (within 3 months).
UPSC Civil Services IAS, IPS, IFS
Photograph
Dimensions: 2.0 x 2.0 inches
Pixels: 350 x 350 (exact)
File Size: 20 KB to 300 KB
Format: JPG/JPEG
Background: White / Light grey
Signature
Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 1.5 cm
Pixels: 280 x 120 (approx)
File Size: 20 KB to 100 KB
Format: JPG/JPEG
Style: Full signature (not initials)
📝 Note: UPSC allows larger file sizes. Photo must be taken within 30 days of application.
IBPS & Banking Exams PO, Clerk, SO, RRB
Photograph
Dimensions: 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm
Pixels: 520 x 260 (approx)
File Size: 20 KB to 50 KB
Format: JPG only
Background: White
Signature
Dimensions: 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm
Pixels: 520 x 260 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 20 KB
Format: JPG only
Note: Must be between 1-20 KB exactly
📝 Note: Banking exams are very strict about file size. Use our Image Compressor to hit exact 20KB target.
RRB (Railways) NTPC, Group D, ALP
Photograph
Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm
Pixels: 420 x 540 (approx)
File Size: 20 KB to 50 KB
Format: JPG
Background: White
Signature
Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 1.5 cm
Pixels: 420 x 180 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 20 KB
Format: JPG
Note: Running hand signature
📝 Note: For Railways, photo without spectacles is preferred. Ensure no shadows on face.
NEET (UG) Medical
Photograph
Dimensions: 4.0 cm x 3.0 cm
Pixels: 480 x 360 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 200 KB
Format: JPG
Background: White
Signature
Dimensions: 4.0 cm x 2.0 cm
Pixels: 480 x 240 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 200 KB
Format: JPG
Note: Same size range as photo
📝 Note: Aim for 20-50 KB for best compatibility, though wider range is allowed.
JEE Main / Advanced Engineering
Photograph
Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm
Pixels: 420 x 540 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 100 KB
Format: JPG/JPEG
Background: White / Light
Signature
Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 1.5 cm
Pixels: 420 x 180 (approx)
File Size: 10 KB to 100 KB
Format: JPG/JPEG
Note: Black ink only
📝 Note: Photo with name and date written below is required for some years. Check specific instructions.
GATE PG Engineering
Photograph
Dimensions: 2.0 x 2.0 inches
Pixels: 600 x 600 (exact)
File Size: 5 KB to 200 KB
Format: JPG/PNG
Background: White
Signature
Dimensions: 2.0 cm x 2.0 cm
Pixels: 240 x 240 (approx)
File Size: 5 KB to 200 KB
Format: JPG/PNG
Note: Square format signature
📝 Note: GATE is unique - accepts PNG format and square signature. Photo must be recent.
✅ Common Requirements Across All Exams
- Photo Background: White or very light grey - no patterns, no shadows
- Photo Age: Taken within last 3-6 months (varies by exam)
- Expression: Neutral face, both eyes open, mouth closed (no smile)
- Accessories: No hats, no sunglasses (prescription glasses allowed if no glare)
- Format: JPG/JPEG for most exams (GATE accepts PNG)
- Head Position: Face forward, centered, covering 70-80% of photo
❌ Top 10 Reasons for Photo Rejection
- Wrong file size: Photo over 50KB when limit is 20KB
- Incorrect dimensions: Not following exact cm or pixel requirements
- Wrong background: Using colored, patterned, or dark background
- Face covered: Hair over face, shadows, or turned head
- Old photo: Photo doesn't match current appearance
- Smiling: Most exams require neutral expression
- Glasses glare: Reflection on glasses hiding eyes
- Red eyes: Flash reflection in eyes
- Wrong format: Uploading PNG when JPG is required
- Head too small/large: Not meeting 70-80% rule
📏 Size Conversion Guide
| Centimeters | Inches | Pixels (300 DPI) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.0 x 2.0 cm | 1.57 x 0.79 in | 520 x 260 px | SSC, Banking |
| 3.5 x 4.5 cm | 1.38 x 1.77 in | 420 x 540 px | Railways, JEE |
| 4.0 x 3.0 cm | 1.57 x 1.18 in | 480 x 360 px | NEET, CTET |
| 5.1 x 5.1 cm | 2.0 x 2.0 in | 600 x 600 px | UPSC, GATE |
🛠️ How to Prepare Perfect Exam Photos - Step by Step
Take the Photo Correctly
- Stand against a plain white wall
- Use natural daylight - face a window
- Keep neutral expression (no smile)
- Both ears should be visible
- No hair covering face or eyebrows
- Remove glasses if possible
Use Passport Photo Tool
Go to imresizer.in/passport-photo.html
- Upload your photo
- Select your exam/country
- Tool auto-crops to exact dimensions
- Adjusts head size to 70-80%
- Changes background if needed
Resize to Exact Dimensions
Use Image Resizer to set exact dimensions:
- Enter required width and height in cm or pixels
- Maintain aspect ratio to avoid stretching
- Preview before downloading
Compress to Exact File Size
Use Image Compressor to hit exact KB limit:
- Enter target size (20KB, 50KB, etc.)
- Tool automatically adjusts quality
- Download and verify file size
Verify Before Upload
- Check dimensions (right-click → Properties)
- Check file size (in KB)
- Verify format is JPG
- Ensure photo is clear, not blurry
- Confirm background is pure white
📱 Mobile Photo Tips
Taking exam photos with phone? Follow these tips:
- Use rear camera: Better quality than front camera
- Clean lens: Wipe camera lens before taking photo
- Good lighting: Natural daylight works best
- Steady hands: Rest phone on something or use tripod
- Distance: Hold phone at arm's length, face filling frame
📅 Exam-wise Application Months
| Exam | Typical Application Period | Prepare By |
|---|---|---|
| SSC CGL | April - May 2026 | March 2026 |
| UPSC Prelims | February - March 2026 | January 2026 |
| IBPS PO | August - September 2026 | July 2026 |
| RRB NTPC | Throughout year | Keep ready |
| NEET | February - March 2026 | January 2026 |
| JEE Main | January & April 2026 | December 2025 / March 2026 |
🔒 Privacy & Security
Your Documents Are Safe With Us
- 100% Client-Side: All processing happens in your browser
- No Server Uploads: Your photos never leave your device
- No Data Storage: We don't keep any copies
- HTTPS Secure: Encrypted connection
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the same photo for multiple exams?
A: Yes, but you may need to resize differently. Save the original and create copies with required dimensions using our Resizer.
Q: What if my photo is exactly 50KB but requirement says 20KB?
A: Use our Image Compressor with target 20KB. The tool will reduce size while maintaining quality.
Q: Can I smile in exam photos?
A: Most exams require neutral expression with mouth closed. SSC, UPSC, Banking all specify no smiling.
Q: How recent should my photo be?
A: Within last 3-6 months. UPSC specifically requires "within 30 days" for some applications.
Q: Can I wear spectacles in exam photos?
A: Better to avoid. If necessary, ensure no glare and frames don't cover eyes. Some exams explicitly prohibit glasses.
Q: What background color is required?
A: White or very light grey for all exams. No patterns, no shadows, no colored backgrounds.
Q: My photo was rejected. What should I do?
A: Check rejection reason. Usually it's file size, dimensions, or background. Use our tools to fix and reapply.
📚 Related Resources
🚀 Prepare Your Exam Photos Now
👉 Ready to create your exam photos?
Follow the steps above to create compliant photos. Avoid rejection, save time, and apply with confidence.
Start Now →📌 Quick Checklist Before Upload:
- ✅ Correct dimensions for your exam (check table above)
- ✅ File size within limit (20KB/50KB/etc.)
- ✅ White/light grey background
- ✅ Neutral expression (no smile)
- ✅ No glasses or no glare
- ✅ JPG format (unless GATE)
- ✅ Recent photo (within 3-6 months)
⭐ Bookmark this guide for all your exam applications!