NDA CDS Photo Size 2026 — UPSC Defence Exam Upload
The Indian Defence Services (NDA/CDS) (Defence) application portal requires uploaded photos to be 20–200KB in JPEG format at passport-size. NDA and CDS applications through UPSC follow defence-specific photo standards for admit card printing. Use PhotoSizeTool to compress your photo to the exact specification — all processing runs in your browser, so your personal photo stays private.
What You Need to Know
Defence exam applications (NDA, CDS, AFCAT) through UPSC follow military-standard photo requirements. The photo appears on your admit card and is used for identity verification at exam centers and SSB interview boards. A clear, professional-quality photo compressed within 20–200KB makes a strong first impression during these formal processes.
How It Works
Step 1: Open the exam photo compressor
Click below — preset for Defence portal requirements.
Step 2: Upload your passport photo
Use a clear, well-lit photo with a plain white or light background.
Step 3: Verify size and quality
Preview the compressed photo — ensure your face is clearly visible at 20–200KB.
Step 4: Download and submit
Save and upload directly to the Defence application portal.
Benefits
- Preset for Defence portal photo requirements
- Targets 20–200KB range for exact compliance
- Preview to check facial clarity before submission
- Mobile-friendly — fill forms from your phone
- Browser-based — personal photos stay private
- Free to use — no registration needed
Pro Tip
Fill in all other form fields first, then upload your pre-compressed photo as the last step. If the portal session times out during a slow photo upload, you lose all previously entered data. A pre-compressed 20–200KB photo uploads in under 2 seconds even on slow connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact photo requirements for Defence?
The Indian Defence Services (NDA/CDS) (Defence) portal typically requires photos in JPEG format, under 20–200KB, at passport-size. Requirements may vary slightly by exam cycle — always verify against the official notification.
Why does the Defence portal reject my photo upload?
Common reasons: file exceeds 20–200KB, wrong format (must be JPEG), incorrect dimensions, or blurry image. Compress to the exact size with our tool and verify with the portal's preview.
Should I use JPG or PNG for Defence forms?
Defence forms typically require JPEG. JPEG is preferred for photos — it produces smaller files. PNG may be accepted but results in larger file sizes.
Can I use this tool for both photo and signature?
Yes. Use this tool for photo compression, and the dedicated Signature Resizer for signature images — they have different size and dimension requirements.
Is my photo stored on your servers?
No. All compression happens in your browser. Your photo is never uploaded to our servers — especially important for exam application photos containing personal identity information.