UPSC Photo Requirements 2025: Size, Format & Compression Guide

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has specific photo requirements for various examinations. This comprehensive guide covers all UPSC photo specifications and provides step-by-step instructions for compressing your photos to meet these requirements.

General UPSC Photo Requirements

Standard Specifications

• File Size: 50KB to 200KB (varies by exam)
• Dimensions: 300 x 400 pixels minimum (3:4 aspect ratio)
• Format: JPG/JPEG format only
• Color: Color photograph (recent, within 3 months)
• Background: White or light colored background

Photo Quality Standards

• Recent photograph (not older than 3 months)
• Clear face visibility with both ears visible
• No head covering (except for religious reasons)
• No dark glasses or tinted lenses
• Neutral facial expression with mouth closed
• Good lighting without harsh shadows

Exam-Specific Requirements

Civil Services Examination (CSE)

• File Size: 50KB to 300KB
• Dimensions: 300 x 400 pixels minimum
• Special Notes: Photo should match the one on your admit card

Engineering Services Examination (ESE)

• File Size: 50KB to 200KB
• Dimensions: 300 x 400 pixels minimum
• Format: JPG only

National Defence Academy (NDA)

• File Size: 20KB to 50KB
• Dimensions: 300 x 400 pixels minimum
• Special Requirements: Military-style photo preferred

Combined Medical Services Examination (CMSE)

• File Size: 50KB to 200KB
• Dimensions: 300 x 400 pixels minimum
• Professional Requirement: Formal attire recommended

Step-by-Step Compression Guide

Method 1: Using TinyToolsHub

1. Visit our free image compressor

2. Upload your UPSC photo

3. Select target size (50KB, 100KB, or 200KB)

4. Preview the compressed image

5. Download when satisfied with quality

Method 2: Photo Preparation Tips

1. Take a high-quality original: Use good lighting and a clean background

2. Check dimensions: Ensure 3:4 aspect ratio (width:height)

3. Optimize before compression: Crop unnecessary background

4. Test the result: Upload to UPSC portal to verify acceptance

Common Rejection Reasons

Technical Issues

• File size too large or too small
• Wrong image format (not JPG)
• Incorrect dimensions or aspect ratio
• Poor image quality or resolution

Photo Content Issues

• Old photograph (older than 3 months)
• Face not clearly visible
• Dark or inappropriate background
• Wearing glasses or head covering
• Multiple people in photo

Troubleshooting Guide

File Size Too Large

1. Use our compression tool with target size

2. Reduce image dimensions if necessary

3. Save with higher compression ratio

4. Remove unnecessary background areas

File Size Too Small

1. Start with a higher resolution original

2. Ensure minimum dimension requirements are met

3. Use lower compression settings

4. Check if the image is properly cropped

Quality Issues After Compression

1. Start with the highest quality original photo

2. Use gradual compression rather than aggressive settings

3. Maintain proper lighting in original photo

4. Ensure sharp focus before compression

Best Practices for UPSC Photos

Photography Tips

1. Professional Setup: Use good lighting and a plain background

2. Formal Attire: Wear appropriate formal clothing

3. Face Position: Center your face with both ears visible

4. Expression: Maintain a neutral, professional expression

Technical Preparation

1. Multiple Sizes: Prepare photos in different KB sizes

2. Backup Copies: Keep original and compressed versions

3. Test Upload: Verify photo upload works on UPSC portal

4. Early Preparation: Don't wait until the last minute

Digital Photo Guidelines

Resolution and Quality

• Use a digital camera or high-quality smartphone
• Minimum resolution: 300 DPI for printing
• Sharp focus throughout the image
• Natural colors without over-saturation

File Management

• Save in JPG format with appropriate compression
• Use descriptive filenames (e.g., "UPSC_Photo_2025.jpg")
• Keep organized folders for different exam applications
• Regular backup of important photos

Conclusion

Meeting UPSC photo requirements is essential for successful exam registration. By following this comprehensive guide and using proper compression techniques, you can ensure your photos meet all technical specifications while maintaining professional quality.

Always refer to the latest UPSC notification for any updates to photo requirements, as specifications may change between exam cycles.

Ready to compress your UPSC photo? Use our free image compressor to get your photo to the exact UPSC requirements instantly.