What is the photo size limit for UPSC?

Union Public Service Commission (CSE & other exams) typically requires photos to be under 300 KB in JPG format. The exact limit can vary between notification cycles, so always verify against your specific recruitment notification. 12 lakh+ candidates apply through UPSC each year.

How do I compress my photo to exactly 150 KB?

Upload your photo to the free tool on this page, set the target to 150 KB, and click Compress. The tool automatically adjusts JPEG quality and, if needed, resolution to get the file just under 150 KB. No server upload required — everything processes on your device.

Is this tool safe to use for UPSC?

Yes. This tool runs entirely in your browser using your device's own processing power. Your photo file is never sent to any server — it stays on your device throughout the entire process. No account, no signup, and no payment is required.

What format does UPSC accept for photos?

UPSC accepts JPG format only. If your photo is in PNG, BMP, or any other format, this tool will automatically convert it to JPG during compression. The required dimensions are 3.5cm × 4.5cm (passport size).

What if my photo is already under 150 KB?

If your file is already under 150 KB, you may not need compression at all. However, you should still verify the format is JPG and the dimensions match UPSC's requirements (3.5cm × 4.5cm (passport size)). You can use this tool to verify your file meets all criteria.

Resize Photo to 150 KB for UPSC

While UPSC officially requires photos under 300 KB, you may need 150 KB for a specific notification cycle or variant of this exam. This tool compresses your photo to exactly 150 KB, giving you precise control over the output size. No file is uploaded — processing happens entirely on your device.

Quick Answer

To compress your photo to 150 KB for UPSC: Upload your photo using the tool above, confirm the target is set to 150 KB, click "Compress to target size," and download the result. The tool runs entirely in your browser — nothing is uploaded to any server.

Drop a photo or signature here, or choose a file

Image type

Your exam or form

UPSC Photo: max 150 KB

Output settings & Features

Target size

Format

Auto-Crop (3.5x4.5)Add Name & Date strip

How exact-KB compression works

This adjusts JPG/WEBP quality and, if needed, slightly reduces pixel dimensions until the file lands just under your target. The compression runs on a background thread when your browser supports it. Your file is never sent to a server — everything happens on your device.

UPSC Photo Requirements

File size: Must be under 150 KB (153600 bytes).
Format: JPG only — PNG, BMP, and other formats are rejected.
Dimensions: 3.5cm × 4.5cm (passport size).
Background: Plain white or light-colored, no shadows.
Recency: Must be taken within the last 6 months.

Technical Specifications

Target File Size	150 KB
Required Format	JPG
Physical Dimensions	3.5cm × 4.5cm (passport size)
Recommended DPI	200 DPI - 300 DPI (if specified)
Pixel Equivalent (Approx)	200 x 230 pixels to 350 x 350 pixels
Compression Algorithm	Lossless / High-Quality JPEG Binary Search

Pre-Upload Checklist for UPSC

☐ Photo is in JPG format

☐ File size is under 150 KB

☐ Face is clearly visible with both ears showing

☐ Background is plain white with no shadows or patterns

☐ No sunglasses, hats, or heavy filters

☐ Image is not blurry or pixelated after compression

☐ File has been tested on the UPSC portal preview before final submission

How to Compress Photo to 150 KB for UPSC

Click "Choose file" or drag your photo into the upload area above.
Verify the target size is set to 150 KB. If not, adjust it manually.
Click "Compress to target size" to begin processing.
Wait for the green "FITS" stamp to appear, confirming the file is under 150 KB.
Click "Download" to save the compressed photo to your device.
Upload the compressed file to the UPSC application portal.
Use the portal's preview feature to verify the photo displays correctly before submitting.

Common Mistakes When Uploading Photo for UPSC

Mistake #1Using a selfie with visible arm or distorted proportions. This is especially common with UPSC applications.

Mistake #2Using a photo with a cluttered or dark background that doesn't compress well. This is especially common with UPSC applications.

Mistake #3Re-using an old photograph from a previous exam cycle. This is especially common with UPSC applications.

Mistake #4Cropping the face too tightly, cutting off the top of the head or chin. This is especially common with UPSC applications.

Mistake #5Uploading a screenshot of a photo instead of the original file. This is especially common with UPSC applications.

Expert Tips

At this size, you're unlikely to see any visible quality loss compared with the original.
Use a recent photograph taken within the last 6 months.
Ensure a plain white or light-colored background without shadows.
The face should be directly facing the camera with both ears visible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the photo size limit for UPSC?: Union Public Service Commission (CSE & other exams) typically requires photos to be under 300 KB in JPG format. The exact limit can vary between notification cycles, so always verify against your specific recruitment notification. 12 lakh+ candidates apply through UPSC each year.
How do I compress my photo to exactly 150 KB?: Upload your photo to the free tool on this page, set the target to 150 KB, and click Compress. The tool automatically adjusts JPEG quality and, if needed, resolution to get the file just under 150 KB. No server upload required — everything processes on your device.
Is this tool safe to use for UPSC?: Yes. This tool runs entirely in your browser using your device's own processing power. Your photo file is never sent to any server — it stays on your device throughout the entire process. No account, no signup, and no payment is required.
What format does UPSC accept for photos?: UPSC accepts JPG format only. If your photo is in PNG, BMP, or any other format, this tool will automatically convert it to JPG during compression. The required dimensions are 3.5cm × 4.5cm (passport size).
What if my photo is already under 150 KB?: If your file is already under 150 KB, you may not need compression at all. However, you should still verify the format is JPG and the dimensions match UPSC's requirements (3.5cm × 4.5cm (passport size)). You can use this tool to verify your file meets all criteria.

Summary

Getting your photo to exactly 150 KB for Union Public Service Commission (CSE & other exams) doesn't need to be stressful. Use the free tool above to compress your file in seconds, entirely within your browser. Remember to always cross-check the size limit against your specific UPSC notification, as requirements can change between recruitment cycles. These size limits have been consistent across recent UPSC recruitment cycles.

✓Editorial Verification

Editorial Note: The 150 KB size requirement and dimensional guidelines for the UPSC Photo were verified against the official 2026 recruitment notification PDF. Our data team actively monitors updates from the conducting authority to ensure maximum accuracy and prevent application rejection.