Staff Selection Commission exams (CGL, CHSL, GD, MTS and others) have historically asked for a recent colour photo uploaded as a JPG of 20 to 50 KB. That photo is about 3.5 cm by 4.5 cm, on a plain background, without a cap or spectacles. The current SSC portal is reported to capture a live photograph through your device's camera during registration, in which case no file is uploaded. We could not read the official rules when this page was written, so every value here is flagged for you to check.
Make and check a SSC photo photo Free checker; files from A$6.99.
Specification
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Pixels at 300 / 600 dpi | 413 × 531 px / 827 × 1063 px |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 25–34 mm |
| Eye line from bottom | not specified |
| Head width | not specified |
| Space above the crown | not specified |
| Background | pure white |
| Background editing | not allowed (retake instead) |
| Glasses | not allowed |
| Expression | neutral, mouth closed |
| Recency | taken in the last 3 months |
| Print requirements | no printed photo |
| Digital upload | 413×531 px JPEG, 20–50 KB (SSC application (where a file upload is accepted)) |
| Self-taken photos | accepted with conditions (see below) |
| Prints needed | 2 |
| Infant rules | eyes open, mouth closed (under 1) |
| Official source | Staff Selection Commission |
Check the official source. Some values on this page could not be confirmed from the official page when it was last checked (2026-10-29).
- ssc.gov.in returned no readable specification on 2026-10-29. Widely reported: JPG, 20–50 KB, about 3.5 × 4.5 cm. The current SSC portal is reported to capture a live photograph during registration or application, in which case an uploaded file is not used; check the portal.
- If the portal captures a live photo, use the tips but do not upload a file.
Can I take it myself? Yes, with conditions
It depends on the portal. If the SSC form asks you to upload a photo file, you can take it yourself and use the preset here. If it captures a live photo through your webcam or phone camera, it does not take an uploaded file; use the tips here to set up the light and background before you start the capture.
How to take the photo
- Open the SSC application and see whether it asks for a file upload or a live capture.
- Set up a plain white or light wall with daylight in front of you; remove cap and spectacles.
- For an upload: take the photo, load it here and export the 20–50 KB JPG.
- For a live capture: sit square to the camera, face fully visible, and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Keep the same appearance for the exam; carry the ID documents the notice lists.
Why SSC photo photos get rejected
- File outside 20–50 KB. Use the preset; it compresses into the window.
- Spectacles or cap. Remove them; recent notices disallow both.
- Dark or uneven lighting. Face a window; avoid backlight.
- Old photo. Take a new one; notices require a recent photo.
- Uploaded where a live capture is required. Use the portal's camera capture.
Infants and children
Not applicable: SSC candidates are adults. For a child's Indian passport photo, use the Indian passport page with infant mode.
What it costs
Exam fees are set in each SSC notice. Our Single licence (A$6.99 / ₹249, 30 days) gives the clean upload file where one is accepted.
SSC photo photo FAQ
What is the SSC photo size?
Widely reported as a JPG of 20 to 50 KB, about 3.5 × 4.5 cm. Check the current notice.
Does SSC still accept uploaded photos?
The current portal is reported to capture a live photo during registration. If so, no file is used.
Can I wear spectacles?
Recent SSC notices say spectacles should not be worn.
What background?
Plain and light, preferably white.
Do I need prints?
Check your admit card instructions.
Why is this page unverified?
The SSC rules could not be read when the page was written. Always follow the notice and the portal.
Related documents
UPSC exam application photo
40×40 mm · head 26–32 mmPAN card photo (Form 49A / 49AA)
25×35 mm · head 16–24 mmLast verified 2026-10-29 against Staff Selection Commission. Spotted a mistake? Report an error.