CDS Photo Size — Resize & Compress Online
Separate landing for CDS photograph searches — complementary to NDA Photo Size yet tuned for Combined Defence Services aspirants reviewing brochure tables on upsc.gov.in.
Step 1: Resize per CDS notification
Drop image here or tap to upload
JPG, PNG, WebP, HEIC — up to 20 MB
Step 2: Compress JPEG under stated KB maximum
Drop image here or tap to upload
JPG, PNG, WebP, HEIC — up to 20 MB
What this tool solves
CDS applicants juggling SSB timelines cannot afford rejections on trivial JPEG overshoot. Pair precise resizing with KB targeting — typical UPSC workflows mirror SSC dimensional grids but verify annually.
How to verify the latest official CDS rules
- Download the CDS examination notification PDF from UPSC for the cycle you are applying to.
- Extract the upload table for photograph, signature, and any ID scans — do not assume the same numbers as NDA or another UPSC form.
- Bookmark UPSC’s notice board and re-open it once before the closing date in case a corrigendum adjusts image requirements.
Disclaimer
ImageTool is not affiliated with UPSC or the defence services selection system. Tools here help you match pixels and file size locally — they do not guarantee acceptance by the CDS application portal. Rely on the official notification and on-screen instructions for your year.
Cut rejections before you upload
- Leave a KB safety margin under the stated ceiling — borderline files fail when the portal adds metadata or re-encodes.
- Maintain consistent framing with any diagram in the PDF; eccentric crops trigger manual review.
- Rename files soberly (ASCII, short) if the portal is picky about special characters — some validators choke silently.
Recommended specification
| Item | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Official PDF | CDS examination notice on UPSC website |
| Dimensions | Follow px rows exactly — portrait vs square varies |
| Colour background | Typically white / light grey — confirm bulletin |
| Accessibility | Keep face unobstructed — caps rules vary |
How to use
- Extract pixel + KB rules from CDS PDF.
- Resize using presets or manual px fields inside ResizeTool.
- Dial compressor target KB slightly below maximum for safety margin.
Best practices
- Shoot daylight balanced photos — warm indoor bulbs skew skin tones under scrutiny.
- Align eyes horizontally — tilted horizons fail aesthetic checks.
Common mistakes
- Using sunglasses — universally risky unless medical exemption documented.
- Cropping uniforms improperly — follow framing diagrams if provided.
Privacy and quality
Browser-only workflows reduce exposure of defence applicant identity packets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CDS photo rules identical to NDA?
Both fall under UPSC but notifications differ year to year. Always read the CDS-specific PDF rather than assuming parity.
Does ImageTool upload my CDS photograph?
No — everything processes locally in your browser.
What format should I upload to UPSC?
Portals typically expect JPEG — follow the active notification.
Can I adjust compressor target KB?
Yes — lower the target if the portal still rejects file size.
Studio vs mobile photo?
Either works if lighting is even and background complies — readability beats camera price.
Where do I find official dimensions?
Download the CDS examination notice from the UPSC website each cycle.