Applying for SSC CGL, CHSL, or MTS? The most common reason for form rejection is uploading a photo or signature with the wrong dimensions or file size.
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has strict rules: your photo must be between 20 KB and 50 KB, and your signature must be between 10 KB and 20 KB.
In this guide, we will show you how to resize your images correctly in seconds using free tools.
SSC Official Photo & Signature Requirements (2025)
Before you resize, check the official notification rules to avoid rejection.
1. Passport Size Photo Rules
- File Size: 20 KB to 50 KB.
- Format: JPEG or JPG.
- Dimensions: 3.5 cm (Width) x 4.5 cm (Height).
- Background: No strict rule, but a light/white background is preferred.
- Appearance: Both ears must be visible. No spectacles (glasses) or caps allowed.
2. Signature Rules
- File Size: 10 KB to 20 KB.
- Format: JPEG or JPG.
- Dimensions: 4.0 cm (Width) x 2.0 cm (Height).
- Ink Colour: Sign on white paper with a Black Ink Pen (preferred) or Blue Ink.
How to Resize Photo to 20-50 KB for SSC
You don’t need Photoshop. Follow these simple steps to make your photo exam-ready.
- Take a Clear Photo: Stand against a wall and take a picture using your phone. Ensure there are no shadows on your face.
- Go to the Resizer Tool: Use our SSC Photo Compressor.
- Upload Your Image: Select your photo.
- Select “Under 50KB”: The tool is pre-set for SSC requirements.
- Download: Save the compressed JPG file. It is now ready for upload.
Tip: If you need to crop the photo to the exact passport shape first, use our Passport Photo Cropper.
How to Resize Signature to 10-20 KB
The signature is tricky because the file size (10-20KB) is very small. Regular compressors often make the signature blurry and unreadable.
- Sign on Paper: Draw a clear signature on a clean white sheet.
- Scan or Snap: Take a photo in good lighting.
- Open the Signature Tool: Go to the specialised Signature Resizer Tool.
- Select “Under 20KB”: This option uses high-contrast compression to keep the ink dark while reducing file size.
- Download: Check that the text is readable before uploading.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Rejection Reasons)
- Wearing Spectacles: SSC strictly rejects photos with glasses. Even if you wear them daily, remove them for the photo.
- Blurry Signature: If your signature image is too small or pixelated, the computer cannot read it. Always use the “Under 20KB” tool to maintain clarity.
- Inverted Photos: Ensure your photo is upright, not sideways or upside down.
- Selfies: Do not upload a casual selfie. Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression.
Common SSC Upload Errors & Solutions
If you are seeing the error: “Please read the advisory to candidates with respect to photo and signature and common causes of rejection,” do not panic. This usually happens for three reasons:
- Incorrect Dimensions: Your photo must be exactly 3.5cm x 4.5cm.
- File Size Issue: The file is either smaller than 10KB or larger than 20KB.
- Blurry Signature: The system detects low quality.
Solution: Use our SSC Photo Resizer Tool to force the image into the 20KB limit while keeping the dimensions correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a date on the photo?
A: SSC recently removed the strict requirement to print the date on the photo, but it is not forbidden. However, it is safer to upload a plain photo unless the specific exam notification asks for a date.
Q: My photo is 52 KB. Will it be accepted?
A: No. The system will show an error. It must be strictly below 50 KB. Use the compressor to bring it down.
Q: Can I use Blue Ink for the signature?
A: Yes, but Black Ink scans better and looks clearer in the small 10-20KB file size.