SSC photo size requirements
What this SSC photo tool does
Staff Selection Commission forms usually ask for a recent photograph within a file-size cap, and sometimes a pixel size as well. This page runs the same browser compressor used on PixelThinks, with the upload near the top so you can work before reading the notes.
SSC photo rules can differ by recruitment and year. Always check the current SSC notification before submitting your application.
PixelThinks cannot guarantee that a government portal will accept the file.
Official page: SSC website
How to use
- Enter the KB limit from the current SSC notification (maximum or a range).
- Upload the photograph you plan to use for the SSC form.
- Compress Photo, then compare the preview with the original.
- Download the photo and confirm the byte count in your file details.
Common problems
The photo file is too large
Set Target size to the KB ceiling in the notice, then compress. JPEG is usually smaller than PNG for a camera portrait. Crop unused background before compressing if the face is a small part of the frame.
Dimensions are fine but the file is still heavy
Pixel count and encoded size are separate. A correctly sized JPEG can still exceed a KB limit. Lower quality first; reduce the long edge only if the notice allows it.
The image looks distorted
Do not stretch a rectangular crop into a different ratio. Crop first, then resize with proportions locked, or set only one dimension.
The portal rejects the image
Rejection is often the extension, a byte count above the notice, or a face crop the form does not accept. This tool cannot guarantee SSC will accept a file.
The file is smaller than a stated minimum
If the notice names a minimum KB value, raising JPEG quality or keeping more pixels can increase size. Do not pad a file with noise. Compare the downloaded byte count with the notice.
Wrong image format
SSC notices typically name JPG or JPEG. A PNG renamed to .jpg is still a PNG. Convert or compress to JPEG in the tool, then check the downloaded type.
Frequently asked questions
Can I compress my SSC photo to the required file size?
You can set a target in KB from the current notification. The compressor aims to stay at or under that budget. It does not pad a smaller file to a round number, and it cannot promise the portal will accept the result.
Does PixelThinks upload my SSC photo?
No. When your browser supports it, the image is processed on your device. The photo is not sent to PixelThinks servers for compression.
Why is my SSC photo being rejected?
Common causes are a byte count over the notice, the wrong extension, or a crop the form does not allow. Open the current SSC notification and match both size and format. PixelThinks cannot see why a portal refused a file.
Can I change both the dimensions and the file size?
Yes. Use Maximum edge or a dedicated resize pass for pixels, then compress to the KB limit. Check both values on the downloaded file.
Can I use the SSC photo compressor on a phone?
Yes. The page works in a mobile browser. Keep a copy of the original on the device before you overwrite it.
Is the SSC photo compressor free?
Yes. There is no signup and no daily cap. One photo at a time, up to 30MB.