How to Prepare Your Photo and Signature for Online Exam Forms
Many students lose time because a form says 'invalid file'. The rules are in the notice, and they differ from exam to exam, so read yours first. Then follow these steps.
Find the exact rules
The notice or the form page states the width and height in pixels or centimetres, the file size range in KB, and the file type (usually JPG). Write these numbers down. A common mistake is using the numbers of a different exam, or of last year.
Take a good photo
- Sit in front of a plain, light wall in daylight, facing the camera, with your face and shoulders visible.
- Do not wear a cap or dark glasses unless the notice allows it.
- Keep the phone at eye level so the picture is not tilted.
Make the signature
- Sign with a black or blue pen on plain white paper, in the box size you expect, using your normal signature.
- Photograph it straight from above in good light, or draw it on screen with the signature tool.
- Sign the way you sign on your other documents, because it may be compared.
Make files that fit
- 1Open the Exam Photo and Signature Maker and choose Photo or Signature.
- 2Type the pixel size and the smallest and largest file size from your notice.
- 3Add your picture, move it into place for a photo, and press Make.
- 4Check the size shown, download the JPG and upload it. If the form still refuses it, read its error message and compare it with the numbers in your notice.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the form say my photo is too small?
Many forms give both a smallest and a largest size. If your file is under the smallest, make the picture larger in pixels and try again.
Can I use a photo that was taken a few years ago?
Most notices ask for a recent photo, often taken in the last few months. Check yours, because a photo that does not look like you can be rejected at the exam.
Should I use the same photo on every form?
Using the same recent photo on all your forms and your admit card helps, because the photo is checked at the exam centre.