Government Exam Photo Size Requirements: The Master Guide

Published on: October 2024

Applying for government jobs in India requires careful attention to detail. Different recruitment boards use different portal software, leading to a confusing array of photo and signature upload requirements. In this guide, we consolidate the guidelines for the biggest exams in the country.

1. UPSC (Union Public Service Commission)

The UPSC Civil Services (IAS/IPS), NDA, and CDS exams have very unique guidelines.

• Format: strictly JPG format.
• File Size: Between 20 KB and 300 KB.
• Dimensions: The minimum resolution is 350 pixels (Width) X 350 pixels (Height) and maximum is 1000 pixels X 1000 pixels. The image must be square.
• Special Rule: A recent rule requires candidates to have their name and the date of taking the photograph printed clearly at the bottom of the photo. Ensure you add this text before resizing!

2. SSC (Staff Selection Commission)

SSC conducts CGL, CHSL, MTS, and GD Constable exams. They use a unified portal.

• File Size: 20 KB to 50 KB.
• Dimensions: 3.5 cm (width) x 4.5 cm (height).
• Appearance: No caps, spectacles, or dark backgrounds. Both ears must be visible in a direct frontal view.

3. RRB (Railway Recruitment Board)

For ALP, NTPC, and Group D posts, the RRB is notoriously strict regarding background colors.

• Background: Must be a white or very light-colored background. No dark or textured backgrounds.
• File Size: Usually 15 KB to 40 KB (sometimes up to 50 KB depending on the notification).
• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm or 320x240 pixels.
• Name & Date: Usually required to be printed on the photograph, similar to UPSC.

4. IBPS & SBI (Banking Exams)

Bank exams have slightly different rules than central government portal exams.

• File Size: 20 KB to 50 KB for photos.
• Dimensions: 200 x 230 pixels is standard for IBPS.
• Left Thumb Impression: Banking exams uniquely require a left thumb impression scan (20 KB to 50 KB, 240 x 240 pixels) and a hand-written declaration (50 KB to 100 KB).

5. PAN Card Application (NSDL / UTIITSL)

When applying for a new PAN card or updating it online via Aadhaar e-KYC or physical document upload:

• File Size: Maximum 50 KB.
• Dimensions: 213 X 213 pixels exactly. Resolution of 200 DPI.

How to Resize Your Photos Perfectly

Instead of struggling with complicated settings, simply use the GovFormTools Resizer. Select your specific exam preset, and our tool will automatically guarantee the correct dimensions and file sizes without compromising image quality.