CDS Photo and Signature Resizer

What the CDS examination is

The Combined Defence Services examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission for admission to the Indian Military Academy, Indian Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Officers Training Academy. The commission holds the written examination twice a year, and candidates complete an online application through the UPSC online portal before the closing date. The form includes a photograph and signature, and both must be uploaded in the accepted format for the application to be completed.

Photo and signature preset in the tool

The table shows the square rows stored for CDS. The tool keeps more than one acceptable shape because the preset record contains alternative rows.

These figures describe the tool preset, not a quotation from the current UPSC notice. The notice and the instructions on the application portal are the authority. Where they differ, follow the official instruction and treat this page as a working guide.

How to resize the CDS images

1. Select CDS in the tool and choose the photo row you intend to use.
2. Upload a recent front-facing photograph taken against a plain light background.
3. Crop the face and shoulders into the square frame, keeping the head centred and the expression neutral.
4. Switch to the signature tab, upload a clear scan signed in running hand, and crop it to the square size shown.
5. Download the JPEGs and check the actual pixel dimensions and weight before uploading them to the UPSC portal.

Photo and signature advice

Use a photograph that clearly shows your face, without a cap, dark glasses, or a heavy filter. Daylight from the front gives softer shadows than a ceiling light, and a plain wall keeps the background from distracting. For the signature, sign on unlined white paper with a black or blue pen, let it dry, and scan it flat. A square crop can leave unused space on either side, so centre the signature rather than stretching it.

Common mistakes and limits

Do not assume that any square image will do; the weight range and the format still have to match. Avoid enlarging a small photograph, because the face becomes soft. The tool crops, resizes, converts, and compresses only. It cannot confirm your eligibility, repair a blurred image, or guarantee that the portal will accept the file. Always verify the current UPSC instructions and keep the downloaded originals until the application is submitted.

Frequently Asked Questions