Official CAT photo requirements (IIM portal)
CAT is conducted annually by one of the IIMs on rotation. The registration portal (iimcat.ac.in) requires your photo to be in a specific format. The requirements have remained consistent across recent years.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35mm × 45mm (passport format) |
| File size | 10KB – 80KB |
| File format | JPEG only |
| Background | White or off-white, plain |
| Photo type | Recent colour, taken within 6 months |
| Signature file size | 10KB – 30KB, JPEG |
CAT photo also used for IIM GD-PI and WAT
| Stage | Photo Used | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CAT Registration | Your uploaded photo | Must meet 80KB / JPEG spec |
| CAT Admit Card | Same photo | Printed on card, shown at exam centre |
| IIM Interview Call | Same or fresh upload | Each IIM may ask for fresh submission |
| GD-PI / WAT Round | Usually same | Carry 4–6 prints for document verification |
🔗 Related Tools on Aero Tools
How to prepare your CAT registration photo (3 steps)
Use a recent passport-size photo (35×45mm) with a white or off-white background. Your face should be clearly visible, ears showing, no glasses. Take it at a professional studio for best results.
Upload using Choose File or drag and drop. Tool compresses to under 80KB in JPEG format. Click Compress.
Preview and download. Upload to iimcat.ac.in during registration. Print 4–6 copies on glossy paper to carry for document verification at the exam centre and IIM interviews.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a phone selfie for CAT registration?
Technically yes, but it's risky. IIM portals and invigilators at exam centres may reject selfies if they don't meet the "plain background, face clearly visible, no shadows" criteria. A studio photo is strongly recommended — especially since it's also used at IIM interview rounds.
What happens if my CAT photo is rejected after submission?
The CAT portal usually has an edit/correction window after initial submission where you can re-upload. However, once the deadline passes, no changes are allowed. Compress and upload the right photo the first time.
Do IIMs require the same photo for admission?
Each IIM sends its own shortlist and may request fresh document uploads including a new photo. However, keeping the same consistent passport photo throughout the process (CAT → shortlist → GD-PI) is recommended for identity verification purposes.