How to Compress PDF for UPSC Online Application - Step by Step Guide

2026-04-05

UPSC requires all uploaded documents to be in PDF format within specific size limits. This guide walks you through the compression process step by step.

Step 1: Check Your Document Type

Identify which category your document falls into: Photo (20-300KB), Signature (20-300KB), ID Proof (20-300KB), Certificate (50-300KB), or Other (50-300KB). Each type has different compression requirements.

Step 2: Scan at Recommended Settings

Scan your document at the recommended DPI (150-200 DPI). Use color mode only for photos; use grayscale for everything else. Avoid 300 DPI as it creates unnecessarily large files.

Step 3: Compress Using the Right Tool

Upload your PDF to a compression tool that supports target size control. Our UPSC PDF Compressor automatically applies the correct settings for each document type.

Step 4: Verify Compliance

After compression, verify that: file size is within limits, the PDF is not encrypted, no JavaScript or form fields are present, and content quality is acceptable.

Compress your UPSC documents now with our free tool — automatic compliance checking included.

UPSC PDF Compressor