CAT Photo Size & Document Upload Guide: How to Upload CAT Images Correctly

One of the most confusing steps in the CAT application form is uploading the CAT photo, signature, and documents correctly.

Many candidates spend months preparing for the CAT exam but ignore the technical details of the application process, especially the CAT exam photo size, file format, and document upload rules.

A small mistake—such as the wrong file size, incorrect dimensions, or blurry image—can cause problems during registration or verification.

The CAT authorities are strict about image specifications and document formats, so candidates must carefully follow the instructions when uploading their CAT images.

This guide explains:

correct CAT photo size and image dimensions
signature upload rules
document upload checklist
common upload mistakes and how to avoid them

By following these steps, you can complete the CAT application process smoothly without last-minute errors.

Why CAT Photo and Document Upload Matters

The CAT exam uses the photo and signature uploaded during registration to verify candidate identity.

Your uploaded photograph appears on:

CAT admit card
attendance sheet at the exam centre
official exam records

If the photograph or signature is unclear, verification during the CAT exam day may become difficult.

Candidates should not upload a photograph that is rotated, as it will lead to the cancellation of the application form. Incorrect dimensions or poor image quality can also cause the application to be rejected by the system.

The photograph to be uploaded in the CAT form must be a recent one and should not be more than 6 months old. Candidates must provide a valid government-issued photo ID as part of the application process.

That is why candidates must follow all specifications mentioned on the official CAT website before uploading images. The signature to be uploaded in the CAT exam form should be 80mm x 35mm. Candidates must preview the application form before confirming the payment to ensure all details are correct.

CAT Application Overview and Important Details

The CAT registration process usually begins in August and closes in September.

For reference, the CAT exam is scheduled to be conducted on November 30, 2025, although candidates preparing for CAT 2026 should expect a similar timeline in late November.

During registration, candidates must fill in:

personal details
academic details
work experience
preferred test cities
document uploads

Candidates must ensure that their name is entered exactly as it appears in their 10th or SSC certificate. Any mismatch in spelling may cause problems later during verification.

The application fee for CAT 2025 is ₹2500 for the General category and ₹1250 for SC/ST/PwD candidates.

Candidates can also select all IIMs during the application process to maximize their chances of selection.

CAT Photo Size and Image Specifications

Before uploading images, candidates must understand the exact photo requirements for CAT registration.

The system only accepts specific dimensions, formats and file sizes.

CAT Photo Specifications

Photograph format: JPG / JPEG
Photograph dimensions: approximately 1200 x 1200 pixels
Maximum file size: should not exceed 80 KB
Background: plain and light colored
Face visibility: clear front-facing image

The photograph must be recent and should not include sunglasses, caps or any accessories that hide the face.

CAT Signature Upload Specifications

Candidates must also upload their signature image separately.

The signature should be:

written on white paper
signed using black or dark ink
scanned clearly

The signature dimensions for the CAT form should be approximately 80 mm x 35 mm.

Make sure the signature is neither too faint nor too thick, and that the entire signature fits inside the image frame.

How to Prepare CAT Photo and Signature for Upload

To ensure the best quality images:

use a scanner instead of a mobile app
scan the image at 200–300 dpi resolution
crop the image carefully
save it in JPG format

Candidates should ensure that the scanned document is properly visible by using a scanner and not a mobile app, as mobile photos often introduce shadows or distortion.

If the size of the file exceeds the specified limit, candidates should adjust the scanner settings during the scanning process.

Reducing resolution slightly or compressing the image can help bring the file size below 80 KB.

Step-by-Step Guide to Upload CAT Photo and Signature

Uploading images in the CAT application form is straightforward if you follow the correct steps.

Step 1: Log in to the CAT Application Portal

Visit the official CAT website and log in using your registration credentials.

Step 2: Navigate to the Document Upload Section

Locate the section for:

photograph upload
signature upload
category certificate upload (if applicable)

Step 3: Upload the Photograph

Click on the upload photo option and select the prepared image file.

Ensure the image:

matches the required dimensions
is less than 80 KB
appears clearly in the preview window

Step 4: Upload Signature Image

Upload the scanned signature image in JPG format.

Ensure the signature appears clearly and is not cropped.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

If applicable, upload:

category certificate
PwD certificate
other required documents

After uploading, review the preview of all images before submitting the application form.

Documents Upload Checklist

Before submitting the CAT application form, keep the following documents ready.

CAT Document Upload Checklist

Passport size photograph (JPG format)
Signature image (JPG format)
Category certificate (if applicable)
PwD certificate (if applicable)
Valid photo ID details
Academic mark sheets

Having these documents prepared in advance helps avoid last-minute upload issues.

Category Certificates and Reserved Category Upload Rules

Candidates belonging to reserved categories must upload the appropriate certificates.

Examples include:

NC-OBC certificate
SC/ST caste certificate
EWS certificate
PwD certificate

Ensure that:

the certificate is issued by a competent authority
the format matches government guidelines
the name matches the CAT application form

Uploading the correct certificate ensures smooth verification during the admission process.

Common Mistakes in CAT Document Upload

Many candidates face problems during the upload stage due to simple errors.

Common Upload Mistakes

Uploading images larger than the allowed size
Uploading images in PNG or PDF format
Blurry or poorly scanned photographs
Incorrect image dimensions
Cropping errors in signature images

These errors can delay the application process.

How to Avoid Image Upload Errors

Follow these best practices:

scan images using a proper scanner
check file size before uploading
preview the image before submission
ensure face and signature are clearly visible

Always double-check the CAT photo upload preview window to confirm the image looks correct.

Preview and Submit the CAT Application Form

Before submitting the application form, carefully review all details.

Check:

personal details
academic information
uploaded images
certificates
preferred test cities

If everything is correct, proceed to submit the form and download the application PDF.

Saving the final application form helps you maintain a record of your registration.

What to Do After Submitting the CAT Application

After submitting the application form:

check your email for confirmation
download and save the application PDF
monitor updates on the CAT official website

Later, the CAT admit card will be released, and candidates can download it using the same login credentials.

Summary

Uploading the correct CAT photo size, signature and documents is an essential step in the CAT registration process.

To avoid rejection:

follow the correct image dimensions
ensure file size is below 80 KB
upload clear and properly scanned images
verify all documents before submission

Taking time to review these steps ensures your CAT application is accepted without errors.

FAQs on CAT Photo Size and Document Upload

What is the correct CAT photo size?

The photograph should be approximately 1200 × 1200 pixels and less than 80 KB in size, uploaded in JPG or JPEG format.

Can I upload a mobile photo for the CAT application?

It is recommended to use a scanner instead of a mobile photo to ensure the image is clear and properly aligned.

What happens if my photo size exceeds the allowed limit?

If the image size is larger than the limit, you must adjust the scanner settings or compress the image before uploading.

What signature size is required for CAT?

The signature dimensions should be approximately 80 mm × 35 mm and must be uploaded as a JPG image.

What documents are required for reserved category candidates?

Reserved category candidates must upload the relevant NC-OBC, SC/ST, EWS or PwD certificate in the prescribed format.