CAT Photo: 30mm × 45mm (slightly narrower than standard passport size), JPEG, max 80KB. White background. Use our free resizer to get this right instantly.
CAT 2026 Photo Specifications
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is conducted by IIMs and is the gateway to MBA programmes at IIMs and hundreds of other management colleges. The CAT application portal requires a specific photo size that differs slightly from most other exams — note the width is 30mm, not the standard 35mm.
| Parameter | Required Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 30mm × 45mm | Note: Width is 30mm, not 35mm |
| File Format | JPEG / JPG | Required |
| Maximum File Size | 80 KB | Strict |
| Background | Plain white or light grey | Required |
| Photo Recency | Within 6 months | Required |
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CAT's unique 30mm × 45mm spec is pre-loaded. Get it right in seconds.
Open CAT Resizer →Why CAT Photo Size is Different
Most Indian government and competitive exams use the standard passport photo size of 35mm × 45mm. However, CAT uses 30mm × 45mm — a narrower format. This is a common source of confusion, and many applicants accidentally upload a standard passport photo which gets rejected or causes issues.
Our CAT preset on SarkariKagaz.pro automatically uses the correct 30mm × 45mm dimensions so you don't have to remember this difference.
Using a standard 35mm × 45mm passport photo instead of the CAT-specific 30mm × 45mm. The difference is subtle but the portal validates the aspect ratio. Always use the CAT preset on SarkariKagaz to avoid this.
CAT Photo Guidelines
- Use a plain white or very light background — no studio patterned backgrounds
- The photo must show the full face, front-facing, with both eyes open
- No spectacles — CAT guidelines recommend removing glasses for the photo
- Wear formal or semi-formal clothing
- The photo must be recent — taken within 6 months of the application date
- Do not use a photo from your school or college ID card