UPSC Photo Requirements 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) requires a specific digital photograph for all its online applications, including the Civil Services Examination (CSE), CDS, NDA, CAPF, and others. The UPSC portal has strict file size limits — particularly the very low 40KB maximum — which is why most applicants need a dedicated tool to compress their photo correctly.
UPSC Photo Quick Specs
- ✓ Dimensions: 25 mm × 29 mm
- ✓ Pixels: 200 × 230 px
- ✓ File Size: 3KB – 40KB
- ✓ Background: Plain White
- ✓ Format: JPEG / JPG
- ✓ Recent: Within 6 months
UPSC Signature Specs
- ✓ Pixels: 200 × 80 px
- ✓ File Size: 1KB – 12KB
- ✓ Background: Plain White
- ✓ Format: JPEG / JPG
Common UPSC Photo Rejection Reasons
- File size above 40KB: This is the strictest limit of any major Indian exam. A standard passport photo is way above this. Our tool compresses to the exact target.
- Coloured or studio background: Only plain white is accepted. Our AI removes any background automatically.
- Sunglasses or tinted lenses: Not permitted. Both eyes must be clearly visible.
- Photo not recent: UPSC recommends a photo taken within the last 6 months.
- File minimum not met: The file must be at least 3KB — a heavily compressed file can fall below this.
UPSC vs Other Exam Photo Sizes
| Exam | Photo Size | Max File Size | Background |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC CSE / CDS / CAPF | 200 × 230 px | 40 KB | White |
| SSC Exams | 200 × 230 px | 50 KB | White |
| IBPS / Bank | 200 × 230 px | 100 KB | White |
| NEET / JEE | 200 × 230 px | 200 KB | White |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UPSC photo size in pixels?
The UPSC Civil Services photo must be 200 x 230 pixels (Width x Height), in JPEG format, with a maximum file size of 40KB and minimum of 3KB.
What is the UPSC signature size?
The UPSC signature must be 200 x 80 pixels, in JPEG format, with a file size between 1KB and 12KB.
What background is required for UPSC photo?
A plain white background is mandatory for all UPSC examination photographs. No coloured, patterned or gradient backgrounds are accepted.
Does the same photo spec apply to UPSC Prelims and Mains?
Yes. The UPSC photo specifications (200×230 px, max 40KB, white background, JPEG) apply for both the Preliminary and Main examination online applications.
What other UPSC exams use the same photo spec?
The same specifications apply to UPSC CDS (Combined Defence Services), CAPF, NDA, SCRA, and other UPSC recruitment examinations.