The UPSC Civil Services application form requires a photograph and signature that meet specific technical specifications. Getting this wrong can delay your application — and with UPSC deadlines, there's no room for error. Here's everything you need.
UPSC Photo Specifications
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 200 × 230 pixels (width × height) |
| File size | 20 KB to 300 KB |
| Format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| Background | White or light-coloured |
| Recency | Taken within last 6 months |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Glasses | Not allowed (removed in recent years) |
UPSC Signature Specifications
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 200 × 70 pixels |
| File size | 10 KB to 40 KB |
| Format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| Ink | Black ink on white paper |
| Style | Running hand (not block/capital letters) |
How to Prepare Your UPSC Photo
- 1Start with a clear, well-lit passport-style photo against a white/light background
- 2Use PhotoSure's free Resize tool to set dimensions to exactly 200×230 pixels
- 3Check the file size — UPSC allows up to 300 KB, so most photos won't need compression
- 4If under 20 KB, use the KB Increaser tool to bring it above the minimum
- 5Save as JPEG — don't use PNG or WebP
Common UPSC Photo Mistakes
- Photo too old — must be within last 6 months of application
- Wearing glasses in the photo — UPSC has removed this allowance
- Dimensions swapped — 230×200 instead of 200×230 (width first!)
- Photo taken with beauty filter — alters facial features
- Background not plain — patterned curtains or coloured walls visible
- Signature in blue ink — must be black
- Signature in capital/block letters — must be running hand
Pro tip
UPSC's 300 KB limit is generous compared to SSC (50 KB). Don't over-compress your photo — higher quality means better clarity on your admit card and during document verification.